In the fitness world, there are always new fad diets and trends popping up. Reliable fitness experts will tell you that there are no tricks — just eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly.
As simple as that sounds, sometimes you can’t help but wonder whether a new workout trend would add some fun to your fitness regimen. After all, you’re far more likely to stick to exercise if you enjoy it.
Has a new fitness trend caught your eye, but you’re not sure whether it’s worth giving it a shot? Or are you just looking to shake things up a bit with your current workout routine? Here are nine popular workout suggestions that might actually be worth your perspiration.
1. Water Sports
If you live anywhere near water, consider indulging in water sports during the warmer months. Paddle boarding, water skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and rafting have gained considerable popularity in the last few years.
The activities themselves can be difficult, but that’s part of what makes it an exciting challenge as well as great exercise. Furthermore, technology has improved. Manufacturers can now create quality products at an affordable price, at least one big reason why water sports are increasing in popularity.
2. Rollerblading
When you think about roller skating, your thoughts are probably transported back to childhood. Rollerblading peaked in popularity over 20 years ago, but just like other aspects of ’90s culture, inline skating is back.
Be careful if you decide to strap on some ’blades — maintaining your balance might not be as easy as you remember. It will be worth the initial effort, though. Rollerblading is a top calorie-burning exercise; plus, it counts as both cardio and a lower body workout. Investing in a pair of skates is a great way to have fun and get a solid workout.
3.Jumping rope
Speaking of exercises from childhood, here’s another activity that’s likely to hit you with a wave of nostalgia — jumping rope. Many of us remember having the time of our life doing double dutch or trying to see how fast we could spin the rope.
Nowadays, as an adult, you might be concerned that you’ll hurt yourself. If you want the cardio from jumping but less strain on the body, you might consider a fitness trampoline. A mini trampoline can be a great addition to your home gym, and they offer excellent cardio workouts.
4. Cycling
Prior to Covid-19, biking offered many benefits. Not only was it great exercise, but it gave people a sense of freedom coupled with the ability to travel further than by foot. Since the pandemic struck, many have gone back to cycling with a vengeance. It offers a socially distanced way to get a workout and release stress during these trying times.
Cycling at home on a high-tech bike can give you some of that same feeling. The trick is setting up the workout room properly. You need to like what you see as you cycle. Try cycling to a motivational instructor who keeps you pumped up during your ride. Thanks to the growing popularity of the Peloton, the rage for cycling shows no signs of slowing down in 2021.
5. Dancing
Dance is something that many of us would like to try, but we hesitate for fear of looking silly. Fortunately, structured dance routines are a widely accepted form of exercise, and for good reason. Dance is a great workout, especially when it’s fast-paced and upbeat, requiring constant movement.
Zumba has been a popular form of dance exercise for years and can be performed at different ability levels and intensities. The steps are easy to follow, making it a fun workout for old hands and novices alike. During the pandemic, dance videos became increasingly popular for those who wanted to exercise at home. Next time you want to shake up your workout routine, consider adding dance.
6. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Workouts
Pre-pandemic, your workout routine may have consisted of hours at the gym moving from machine to machine. Now, with a communicable virus to worry about, you may not feel so comfortable doing this.
Whether you want to stay at home or you’re just trying to reduce trips to the gym, consider a high-intensity interval training workout. HIIT routines are rigorous, short workouts intended to get your heart rate up.
You’ll need to give it your all for 15-25 minutes, but you’ll reap great rewards as a result. HIIT workouts will help you burn fat, improve your cardiovascular health, and boost your metabolism. Look for a routine that includes ball slams, tire flips, sprints, etc. It might push you pretty hard, but it won’t last long, and you’ll see amazing results.
7. Virtual Fitness
Ever since Covid began, entire populations have had to adjust to a life of increased isolation. It’s no wonder we’re seeing a surge in popularity for virtual fitness. New fitness technologies are hitting the market, allowing people to add great, affordable equipment to their home gym.
Online fitness classes are also becoming more popular and more affordable, making it easy to squeeze in a workout virtually. Picking a class to attend regularly increases accountability as well.
8. Yoga
Yoga is one fitness trend that never seems to die. And given yoga’s known stress-relieving properties, there’s never been a better time to take up the practice if you haven’t already.
Traditionally, yoga was a mental and spiritual practice intended for calming, relaxing, and freeing the mind — just what the pandemic doctor ordered. But yoga isn’t just for the psyche; it benefits anyone looking to improve flexibility and muscle tone.
If the coronavirus has put a stop to your normal workout routine, yoga may be the perfect activity to fill that void. Not only will it relieve stress, it will be great for your body, too.
9. Wearable Tech
If you haven’t jumped on the wearable tech train yet, now is the time. Wearable technologies allow you to track your activity and set fitness objectives. Tracking watches are some of the most popular types of wearable tech, and newly launched products contain even more features.
As virtual exercise becomes more popular, there may be no better time to invest in wearable tech. It’ll help you stay on top of your own fitness goals, provide objective data on your progress, and help you connect with friends as well.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
New workout trends crop up all the time. Whether you’re feeling excited or overwhelmed by the constantly changing fitness landscape, there are some trends worth trying. This year, make it a goal for yourself to attempt at least one of them.
It helps immeasurably to find a friend who is an enthusiast. Maybe you already know someone who won’t stop talking about yoga, dance, or paddle boarding. Follow their lead: you may end up loving the new activity and making it part of your fitness routine. In 2021, strive to make fitness what it should be — not just great for your health, but a genuinely fun time.
