This year has caused most of us to reevaluate our fitness habits for the simple reason that gyms were shut and outdoor access came with a curfew. Necessity is the mother of invention after all, and we all got super resourceful as found ways to burn calories – from online exercise classes to turning our terraces into workout zones, we did all we could. As we’re all set to enter 2021, let’s take a look at some fitness trends that will carry over to the new year as the world comes to terms with a new normal.
On-the-go-fitness
Fitness and wellness apps turned out to be lifesavers with their workout programs available at the press of a button. All you need is a fully charged phone, workout wear, an empty room and you’re ready to go. Add Runtastic, 30 Day Fitness at Home, Nike Training Club, Home Workout and more to your phone.
Virtual trainers
Having a good trainer makes all the difference between burning calories and getting shredded or lean, whatever your intention is. The advantage of having a virtual one is your trainer can be practically anywhere in the world and yet monitor and guide you adeptly. If you’re serious about your fitness goals, make an extra investment and get a virtual trainer.
Building a basic fitness studio at home
If you have some extra space at home, turn it into a basic gym. All you need is some smart planning and investing. The absolute essentials you need include an exercise mat, resistance bands, dumbbells, kettlebells, jump rope, stability ball and a full-length mirror to preen in as you do your tricep curls.
Incorporating meditation in your workout
A healthy mind and body are essential not just for your sanity but also if you want to continue living a stress-free life. And incorporating a few minutes of mediation towards the end of your workout regime is the perfect way to ensure cardio for your mind.
HILIT (High-Intensity Low Impact Interval Training)
You’ve heard of HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), now get ready for HILIT. No, it’s not a new take on LIIT (Long Island Iced Tea) but a low impact, low-intensity version of HIIT that gives you the same results – top-notch calorie burn, metabolism boost and improved heart numbers without the stress of wear and tear on your muscles and joints.
Strength training over cardio
Sure, running on the treadmill is fun but have you ever deadlifted 50 kg and walked away with legs to die for? Sessions on the elliptical and rowing machine can be boring, if necessary. If you want to lose weight, build muscle, tone your body and increase your stamina, then strength training is the way forward.
Build a strong core
Just as a house is safe and good when it is structurally strong, the same goes for our body. If you want to see results and reap the benefits of your efforts, you have to build a strong foundation and core. This means exercising a variety of muscles located around your abdomen, lower back, shoulders, pelvic region and thighs. The point is not just to gain a six-pack but to create stronger, balanced core muscles that help maintain appropriate posture and reduce strain on the spine. Strengthening your core also helps develop functional fitness and prevents workout-related injuries.
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Image courtesy Alex Shaw from Unsplash
