Top Five Fitness Trends for 2009

The American Council on Exercise recently released a report on fitness trends for 2009. Here are some of the trends that we think are especially notable:

1. Boot Camp Style Workouts- The fitness trainer transforms into a drill sergeant and yells at you to complete the different exercises along with the rest of the group. Workouts are generally held outdoors, and people sign-up for a month or more-commitments to several classes/week.
    
2. Dance- Thanks to shows such as So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing with the Stars, dance is growing in popularity again and many classes are incorporating different dance styles to keep exercise fun. Hip-hop, ballroom and even ballet are all making appearances in exercise classes. Exotic dances such as Bollywood, South American and Afro-Cuban are also growing in popularity.
    
3. Circuit Training- These workouts combine cardiovascular activity and strength training in intervals of varying intensity. Studies have shown that these workouts are more efficient at burning calories than traditional aerobic or strength trainings sessions.
    
4. High-Tech Fitness- From Wii fit (and other Wii exercise games) to personal trainer iPhone apps, more and more people are looking to gadgets to help with their fitness goals. Check out our guide to the best Mobile Fitness Applications.
    
5. Thrifty Exercise- Gym memberships are declining as people are cutting costs in the current economy. Instead, people are using free resources of the surrounding environment and community, walking, running and participating in community sports.