April 02, 2004

By: Holly Moran
Website: http://www.1st-in-fitness.com

Fitness trends outlined 2003 idea fitness programs & equipment survey

Personal training, fitness assessments, strength training and stretching exercises remain firmly established as staples at fitness facilities across the United States, according to the 2003 IDEA Fitness Programs & Equipment Survey. At the same time, rising stars such as Pilates, yoga, core conditioning, and stability ball exercises are joining them as the fitness programs with the greatest appeal to consumers.

Over the past seven years, the IDEA survey shows that Pilates classes have experienced the most growth with 65% of fitness facilities surveyed providing them in 2003 as opposed to 10% in 1997. During that same time period, the number of facilities offering stability ball classes rose from 28% to 71% while personal training (with two persons) rose from 42% to 71%. Stability balls and weighted balls were shown to be the two pieces of equipment most frequently on hand at fitness facilities.

“The growth of Pilates indicates that consumers are enthusiastic about physical activity programs that integrate body and mind. Pilates programs, and other mind/body fitness programs such as Yoga and Tai Chi Chuan, help to contribute to an overall increase in the quality of life of the participant. These programs incorporate activities that positively affect the whole person, stimulating the brain, circulatory, respiratory and muscular systems,” says Len Kravitz, PhD, Senior Exercise Physiologist for IDEA Health & Fitness Association.

“The increased interest in personal training suggests that consumers are realizing that noteworthy results in exercise come from systematic and structured fitness plans developed by qualified and experienced professionals. The personal trainer also provides positive guidance in the development of short- and long-term goals, motivational strategies and positive thinking that enhance the exercise success of their clients” Kravitz adds.

Author Notes:

Holly Moran contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.1st-in-fitness.com.  A source of information and helpful tips on various types of fitness equipment.