Strength training is in. Pilates is out. Those are the findings of a survey by the American College of Sports Medicine that predicts major health and fitness trends for the coming year. A quick rundown:
1. Educated and certified fitness pros: More fitness programs tied to businesses and organizations mean more jobs for fitness experts.
2. Strength training: Yes, bodybuilders pump iron, but regular folk, in increasing numbers, rely on weights to improve or maintain strength and rehabilitate injuries.
3. Body weight training: This back-to-basics approach, which requires only a minimum amount of equipment, is all the rage in gyms.
4. Obesity programs for children: A chronic - and frightening - health issue demands more specialized physical activities for some.
5. Exercise and weight loss: More people are realizing that incorporating exercise and into their daily diet routine is essential for weight-loss maintenance.
