For fitness enthusiasts who had to remain indoors for months with no fitness equipment at their disposal, the year 2020 was unique and very challenging. Unfavorable times, however, lead to extreme innovations.
People became open to technology and concentrated on virtual training sessions and methods. Their emphasis turned towards a healthier lifestyle adaptation. This reflected in some special trends, from new styles of exercise to challenges to some rather interesting ways of doing exercises. Let us take a look at some of them.
1. Yoga
People have adapted extensively to Yoga with work from home becoming the new normal. Yoga has become a perfect choice for all age groups to acquire a balanced mind and body after spending hours staring at computer screens with little movement.
With limited gym equipment at home online gym trainers strongly recommend the fitness enthusiast for cardio which helps in building body strength along with weight loss with excessive sweating.
3. Zumba
This is a rather fun and relaxing fitness exercise and with boring work from home and inbound life, zumba can be really relaxing as it’s a relieving experience to groove with music and stay fit. This is the reason why virtual zumba classes saw huge enrollments in 2020.
4. Pilates
The trend for Pilates has seen a sudden upsurge with people’s strong inclination towards having a toned and fit body. Also, because this exercise form can be simply done at home without the use of any equipment or causing any hassle. Moreover, it has proven highly effective for developing proper postural alignment and muscle balance.
5. HIIT
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) or sprint interval training is a cardiovascular exercise done at alternative intervals with lesser intense recovery period that helps in weight loss in a short period of time. While it may be very tough and exhausting, it has shown great results.
Virtual fitness trends
1. Virtual fitness classes
The trend of virtual fitness classes was normalized by the pandemic. This opened the gates of gyms adapting to hybrid models of training and flexible schedules of training. It also offered fitness fans a chance to work with the best in the world of trainers and influencers. Not only did the virtual world make it easier for people to exercise, but it also made the fitness community more connected in particular.
2. Virtual wellness
The lockdown phase in 2020 led to opening up of several avenues in the fitness industry such as the acknowledgment of the concept of holistic wellness. Several live sessions were organized over the year on social media platforms to raise awareness about the same. The trend to normalize discussions around self-growth and fitness is revolutionary and has changed how we perceive fitness in our lives.
3. Digital Fitness challenges
#21Days, #3Weeks, #15Days Challenges on social media by various brands and influencers which went viral was one of the many fitness trends that emerged in 2020. Some others to add on are plank challenge, pushup challenge, etc. These trends have normalized the need of fitness workouts in our lives which is a positive step towards a healthier world.
4. Wellness at home
Another major emphasis was laid on being physically, mentally and psychologically fit. The pandemic opened the avenues and doctor consultations became easily available at home. People are also openly coming forward to discuss not just their physical but also mental well being.
5. Customized fitness programs
With special attention, one-on-one interaction, this has created a huge impact on people and the way they perceive themselves and fitness. Individual training sessions and easy online interactions with dieticians and instructors have made fitness accessible and understandable by all.
