The Scene

5 Hot New Fitness Trends for 2012!

Published on Thursday, January 05 2012
Written by Tallie Johnson

It’s that time of the year when Fergie’s wisdom resonates with most people: “I be up in the gym just working on my fitness.” The gym is a good place to start, but treadmills can be boring.

Working out doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Popping up are different and exciting ways to tone up and get in shape; some may be enough fun that you won’t even notice you’re working out! Here are of some top fitness trends you may want to try out in 2012:

 

1.    Bar Method: Ever notice what amazing bodies ballerinas have? There is a reason. Ballet is not for the faint of heart. The Bar Method incorporates dance-conditioning techniques to isolate muscle groups to tone the body. The workout uses the ballet bar and mats. It has become a favorite among celebs such as Dita Von Teese, and Zooey Deschanel, and Drew Barrymore.

2.     Anti Gravity Yoga: Yoga is the go-to exercise for flexibility and core strengthening. Why not add a little anti-gravity in the mix. Still using some of the basics found in most yoga classes, the difference is your using what looks like a hammock that is attached to the ceiling to do the movements. That means you have options to be in positions gravity never allows, like upside down floating from the ceiling with your arms and legs stretched.

3.     Piloxing: Yes, it is what it sounds like -- a combination of pilates and boxing. Using the toning from Pilates and the strength gained from boxing, this is a surefire way to get into shape.

4.     Zumba: Dancing is fun, and Zumba is sexy. It’s become so popular that is has spawned flash mobs internationally in Paris. It’s rare when exercise makes you feel like it’s really a night out. But that is part of the appeal. The Latin-inspired dance moves incorporate fast and slow rhythms and resistance training.  And for those who have mastered Aumba on land, there is the next level of Aqua Zumba that takes place in the swimming pool.

5.     Crossfit: It is for the serious workout fanatic who is bored with P90x. It’s a conditioning program that includes spinning, weightlifting, rowing, plyometrics, gymnastics, and spiriting, to name a few. The varied workouts are aimed to increase strength, agility, speed, coordination, balance, and flexibility. Crossfit usually has a workout-of-the-day that is the focus. Once you get into this program, you can compete in their annual Crossfit Games.

 

Broadway-Meets-Workout may the next trend that catches on. Singing along to your favorite musicals tunes can be empowering. A Show Tunes Spinning Class takes place at Up Dog Yoga and Cycle in West Hollywood. You may be out of breath, but maybe the pain is not as noticeable when you’re belting out your favorite tunes.

If these are all too much for you, remember that a nice walk equipped with your favorite Pandora station blaring in your headphones still counts as exercise!

 

- Tallie Johnson, YH Staff