Despite the deluge of new fitness trends that come out every year, 2008 had very few gimmicks. People seem to have embraced good old fashioned, tried and true fitness techniques. Here is a list of the best and worst fitness trends of the years.
Walking
Because gas prices increased so dramatically in 2008 and environmental issues became a hot topic, many people began walking to work or to do other daily activities. Instead of sitting in city traffic, they bought new pairs of shoes and converged on local streets and sidewalks. Either intentionally or unintentionally, they were helping their weight loss and weight management. The money saved by walking may entice people to continue using their feet instead of burning gas.
Biking
People who did not want to walk decided to buy bikes as their major form of transportation. Like walking, they saved money on gas and did not increase emission in the air. Many chose biking because it decreased commute time by half of what it would be walking. Unlike other fitness gadgets, a good bike is fairly cheap. If bikers want to reinforce their bikes, especially if they live in a place with thorns, they can add titanium tires that won’t get punctured.
Ballet/Pilates classes
Pilates has been around for almost 100 years, and the benefits that this activity has on the body are well documents. In 2008, a number of studios added the component of dance to the mix. Like Pilates, ballet creates long, lean muscles, so instructors combined the two, designing a well-rounded workout experience. Not only did the number of classes increase, but the number of exercise DVDs that focus on this type of training increased as well. This fitness trend will likely stay around because it adds a new element to Pilates.
Dance aerobics
From hip-hop to Latin to ballroom dancing, everyone wants to dance instead of doing traditional aerobics. The popularity of shows like Dancing With the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance likely had some influence on consumers who want to shake their butts. Like traditional aerobics, dancing burns calories. However, some of the dance moves included in these workouts also strengthens the abdominal muscles. People are drawn to these workouts because they have fun and don’t have to get on the floor to do crunches. As long as dancing remains popular, these classes will continue increasing.
Abdominal Stimulators
Almost 10 years ago, companies released products claiming to firm the abdominals by using electronic waves. At that time, the Federal Trade Commission filed suits against companies distributing these products. In 2008, these ab belts resurfaced, making the same claims as they did years ago. They didn’t work then, and they will not work now. these products are a waste of money for people serious about getting in shape. Stay away from these products.
Like any fitness trend, many of the 2008 trends will quickly be replaced by new ones in 2009. The best methods are always the methods that have been around a while.
