The last two years are evidence that the world is experiencing life-altering transitions, and the fitness industry is no exception! As we approach the mid-way point of this year, it’s a great time to take a step back and reflect on the current state of the Australian fitness industry – what notable trends we’ve seen thus far, and what can we expect to see for the rest of the year? Let’s find out!
Something Interesting to Consider…
As the fitness sector continues to bounce back from the devastating impact that COVID-19 had on exercise capabilities and training methods – we’ve seen some interesting trends emerge. Following the effects of frequent and prolonged lockdowns in Australian cities over the past couple of years, we’ve seen a heavy pivot toward fitness trends and programs that offer flexibility to its participants both within the gym, and at home.
As such, such sentiments towards these hybrid offerings are reflected in some of the top fitness trends of this year.
1. Fitness Programs for Older Adults
Speaking of older adults, fitness programs for older adults are also trending across Australia. The concept of ‘active ageing’ has taken a stronghold as older generations seek to feel physically and mentally stronger, as well as maintain their independence. You can also find out more about our courses for Older Adults Health and Fitness here!
2. Functional Fitness Training
Functional Fitness took the world by storm in 2021 and has continued strongly in Australian fitness trends throughout this year – securing its position as #1 across an array of industry surveys.
Focusing on the completion of multi-joint movement patterns that one would likely perform in daily life, Functional Fitness Training takes activities such as bending, twisting, lifting and loading, and turns them into a practical full-body workout.
This training method is a fantastic solution to an inclusive exercise program for a diverse range of fitness levels and capabilities. Benefits include increased flexibility, coordination and mobility, and a decreased risk of injury.
As older generations continue to show an increased interest in exercise, fitness, and physical wellbeing – we can expect to see Functional Fitness remain a staple training method that will be a must-have skill for instructors across the country.
3. Strength Training with Free Weights
The benefits of Free Weight strength training has also remained a hot topic within the Australian fitness scene, being an adaptive form of training that arose to popularity during snap lockdown periods when machine training was not an option.
Using objects such as kettlebells, dumbbells, barbells and medicine balls to perform resistance exercises, Free Weights allow a flexible approach to strength training that is a perfect introduction to a tailored fitness program.
Used to tone and build muscle, this method further allows significant improvement in the health and well-being of those who frequently participate, providing benefits such as reduced heart rate and cholesterol.
Due to its versatility and flexibility, it seems that Free Weight Training is a trend that is here to stay! At Onfit, we offer a Fundamentals Course on Kettlebells which provides CEC Accreditation upon completion. Learn more about the course here!
4. Group Training
This one comes as no surprise! Group Training is a fun, social, and inclusive way to exercise with your peers, and we can’t see this trend going anywhere for the remainder of 2022!
Group training with an instructor allows for the benefits of one-on-one personal training with the added bonus of a supportive atmosphere usually associated with team sports. Classes can be catered to a diverse range of fitness levels and capabilities, and have proven to increase levels of motivation, accountability, and results amongst participants.
Not only will Group Training improve the fitness of patrons, but will further satisfy the intrinsic need to achieve holistic health and wellbeing, a trend commonly sought in Australians following the peak of the pandemic. The Conversation looks further at the benefits of group exercise here.
If this sounds like something that you want to be a part of, read more about our Group Exercise Instruction Course here!
5. Employing Registered Exercise Professionals.
Interestingly, this trend ranked higher in Australia than any other country, proving that Aussies want to ensure the people who train them are certified! While it is possible to be a great trainer without a certification, people are increasingly looking for professionals to achieve their fitness goals.
This is potentially a by-product of the influx of exercise and nutrition-related ‘fake news’ reaching millions of viewers online each day, with people unsure who and what to trust.
In any case, it’s vital in today’s culture for personal trainers to be certified with an accredited course. Read more about our accredited Personal Trainer courses here.
6. Wearable Technology
It would be remiss not to mention Wearable Technology. This trend exploded onto the scene in 2016, and continues to boom in Australia. These devices were initially used as step counters and to track heart rate, body temperature, calories, and sleep time, but they have continued to innovate and include measurements such as blood pressure, oxygen saturation, body temperature and respiratory rate.
Keep an eye out for new devices headed our way such as Smart Rings, Smart Glasses and Smart Clothing with Sensors. If you’re in the market for a fitness tracker, PC Mag lists its top picks here.
To Wrap Up…
It’s no doubt that COVID-19 has had lasting effects on the Fitness Industry, leaving its mark on trending exercise regimes for what is likely years to come. With these sustained trends comes the opportunity to learn and help others to achieve their health and fitness goals!
If a career in fitness and personal training has piqued your interest this year, now is the perfect time to start learning!
Onfit Training College provides training programs including Personal Trainer Courses and Certificates III & IV Fitness that will set you up with a lasting and rewarding career in the fitness industry. Click here to learn more about studying online with Onfit Training College or please reach out to one of our friendly career advisors for assistance.
