It's 2009 and personal fitness trends are heading back to basics; people are seeking programs that are economical and obtain results. Expensive gym memberships and expensive exercise equipment are not realistic options for most of us in 2009. We are looking for ways to trim down our budgets and our waistlines in good, old-fashioned, basic ways. The trends are basic, economic and highlight exercise for people over 50.
Basic Training: No Equipment Required!
The challenge of using our own bodies to attain fitness is classic and is gaining in popularity among all age groups. According to the American Council on Fitness (ACE), one of the most popular trends is the Boot Camp workout. This highly efficient training session works on large muscle groups with push-ups, squats, and lunges; the focus is on building strength and endurance with the added benefit of aerobic conditioning. Boot Camp workouts, held both indoors and outdoors, are great ways to get fit and build friendships.
Other forms of exercise that are ageless and never go out of style include walking, jogging and running. They are gaining in popularity as affordable methods of aerobic and weight bearing exercise. Appropriate shoes are required but year-end sales are abundant, so shop around. Other popular favorites include sports like baseball, basketball, volleyball, and soccer; the teamwork involved is an added extra benefit! Equipment is often available at community centers and the local Y. Swimming, which works just about every muscle group in the human body, is an excellent sport and most cities have heated indoor pools for wintertime swimming; memberships are usually available for about $50 check the Y or your city recreation department.
Dance aerobics are another growing trend; Zumba is one of the most popular programs around. It incorporates Latin rhythms with dance movements for a fun, lively exercise experience similar to Jazzercise. The music is so inspiring! For indoor exercise enthusiasts, exercise videos and exercise TV are enjoying a comeback you can have a great workout session in the comfort and convenience of you own home. Videos or DVD's can be found for under $5 at book sales or garage sales and most public libraries have them available for free checkout. Other options for stay at home training include Wii and Dance, Dance Revolution (DDR) both of which are very popular and not just with young people; parents are discovering the fun and getting a good workout too.
Basic Training: Affordable Equipment Trends
When it comes to using equipment, resistance training (also known as circuit training) is one of the top choices around; it's quick and efficient (30 minutes on the average) and is becoming a standard feature in most gyms. It offers cardio and strength benefits and the management can move the equipment around for set-up variety to keep the workout challenging. It is now available in some of the more economical gyms ($10 -$25 month).
Used equipment is an excellent option. Internet resources (craigslist.com and freetrade.com) offer great deals; just be aware of shipping costs. Trampolines, especially mini-trampolines provide a great aerobic session and are fun and affordable; used mini trampolines can be purchases for under $50.
Other home equipment includes resistance bands that offer a workout comparable to circuit training without the heavy machinery and cost (the cost is usually between $7 and $20) and they are very durable. Using the body as resistance, they build muscle and get the heart beating as well. Exercise balls ($20 - $50) provide a multi purpose workout including abs work, balance, and support for weight training. They are also being used in the office setting for sitting at the desk as they offer an ergonomic sitting solution.
Personal fitness trends and options in 2009 are available for all ages and most are affordable. As we cut back and trim the fat in our budgets, we can also trim the fat on our bodies. Creativity and independence from expensive equipment is the path that many are following. We have alternatives to choose from and our bodies to use. Tighten up your budget and your belt and make 2009 the year of your personal best!
