By Erica Moe
How long have you been performing your current exercise routine or taking the same class? If it has been more than four months, consider looking for something new.
When your body becomes accustomed to a workout, you can hit a plateau. So what’s new out there? The 2015 Worldwide Fitness Trend survey from the American College of Sports Medicine reports that, while interest in indoor cycling and Zumba is waning, other trends are off and running.
Body-weight training
Don’t have a lot of equipment? Try moving around the weight that you carry each day —your body! Think pushups, squats and planks. There are tons of ways to get creative, have fun and even modify. Modify a push up by pushing up from your knees instead of toes, or try leaning against the wall. In addition, strength training has been steadily moving up on the list of top 20 trends over the last few years. Instead of using your body for resistance, add equipment, including pin-select machines, dumbbells, tubing, kettlebells and more.
Use fitness professionals
If you feel overwhelmed or are trying to sort through too many options, reach out to a local resource. Be safe by ensuring that the professional is educated, certified and experienced. An expert should be degreed and/or certified through an agency that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). Some well-regarded certifications are from ACSM, ACE, NASM and NSCA, among many others.
Personal training
At a loss for where to start? Already on your way, but not seeing any results? Need accountability, motivation or help setting goals? Don’t go at it alone. Find a personal trainer at ideafit.com/fitnessconnect. Consider group personal training; it’s a great way to get personalized workouts at a more affordable rate.
Yoga
If you tried yoga, but decided it was not your cup of tea, try a different type. Yoga comes in many forms including Hatha, Vinyasa, Iyengar, Kundalini, Heated, Power, Meditative, Prenatal and Restorative, to name just a few. Connect your mind and body through breathing and meditation. Classes can vary from gentle (Meditative) to high energy (Power). If you are looking for a unique experience, try Aerial yoga. There is something for everybody.
Outcome measurements
How do you measure your progress? You’ll feel better, for sure, but new technology like the InBody body composition analyzer allows you to measure your muscle gain and fat loss in less than a minute. It can be a great affirmation to support your hard work. Get your data, know your stats, set goals, work hard and remeasure to hold yourself accountable.
Try something new
If you feel “stuck” or are no longer seeing results, it may be time to change your routine. Consider taking up something different to create progression in your current fitness regimen.
There are plenty of local opportunities to experience these activities. Whether it be at the Mission Valley YMCA, your home gym or even the local playground with your kids.
—Erica Moe is an ACSM certified exercise physiologist who writes on behalf of the Mission Valley YMCA, where she is a fitness director.
