ACSM's Top 10 Fitness Trends for 2019

For the thirteenth year running, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has released their predictions of the top fitness trends for 2019. This annual list provides vital information for health and fitness professionals as they make decisions to meet the ever-changing demands of the industry.

This year’s top trend is wearable technology. Wearable technology includes fitness trackers, smart watches, heart rate monitors, and GPS tracking devices. Examples include fitness and activity trackers like those made by Fitbit®, Misfit®, Garmin®, and Apple®. These devices can track heart rate, calories, sitting time, and much more. Wearable technology first appeared as a fitness trend in 2016. It was the #1 trend in 2016 and 2017 before dropping to #3 for 2018. Last year, it was High-Intensity Interval Training that took the #1 position, now predicted to come in at number 3 for 2019.

Other trends that made it to the top ten include group training, bodyweight training, yoga, and functional fitness training. These are trends that have been gaining traction over the past few years as boutique fitness has become more popular than ever before. One of our outstanding facilities, Court Jester Athletic Club, readily embraced the upward trending of boutique fitness and converted two of their under-utilized racquetball courts into group training and functional fitness areas. Utilizing Escape Fitness’ “Business in a Box” programming, Court Jester has all the tools needed to transform and meet industry trends, from the equipment and training to business plans that maximize ROI.

The top 10 fitness trends for 2019 are:

  1. Wearable Technology

  2. Group Training

  3. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

  4. Fitness Programs for Older Adults

  5. Bodyweight Training

  6. Employing Certified Fitness Professionals

  7. Yoga

  8. Personal Training

  9. Functional Fitness Training

  10. Exercise is Medicine

Is your facility ready for 2019? We can help you meet these trends for a successful and healthy new year! Our article on 3 Keys to Designing A Great Fitness Facility is a perfect place to start.

Check out our articles on previous years’ trends:




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