So what are the fitness trends for 2012? They include traditional fitness forms, performed with a twist.

A dash of innovation makes workouts more exciting in this brand new year

THE WORLD is talking about getting fit. And people tell themselves, `It's time I got into shape' and do just that. Convenient locations of health centres, good amenities and qualified fitness professionals ­ these are all reasons to commit to exercise. 

 

So what are the fitness trends for 2012? They include traditional fitness forms, performed with a twist.

SPINNING 

A good spinning class gives your heart and lungs an intense workout while also building strength in the legs. Spinning is now viewed as an exercise beyond pedalling with the availability of innovative bikes such as leaning bikes (where you can tilt from side to side), which increase the workout challenge.
 

DANCE-AEROBICS 

Aerobic and dance moves are combined to make a fun workout. The Latin-inspired zumba, bhangra, shimmy and fusion dance workouts are the top fitness trends for 2012.
Another workout called Aerojump (trendy in Hollywood) is also gaining popularity. This high-intensity workout involves skipping / jumping ropes to workout songs.

BOOT CAMP / BOXERCISE 

This workout derived from the physical training of the army involves squat thrusts, sit-ups, sprinting and other intense exercises. In TRX Suspension Training, you use straps; the exercise performed uses your own body weight.
Boxercise is an enjoyable way of using the benefits of boxing without the contact. The new trend is Piloxing which combines some features of pilates with boxing.
 

YOGA / PILATES 

Yoga improves suppleness, strength and destresses the mind. New trends have reincarnated yoga, such as Hot Yoga, yogalates, yogaaerobics, candlelit yoga. Pilates concentrates primarily on developing a strong core (stomach and back muscles). New trends combine pilates with functional training. (Functional training is defined as using strength exercises to improve balance and coordination.) Pilates exercises are being performed using stability balls, BOSU balls and wobble boards. This improves the core, balance and stability.

AQUA-AEROBICS 

The resistance of water makes this workout effective. Floats, paddles and other equipment are added to increase resistance. New trends include aqua-pilates, aqua-stretch, aqua-strength and aqua-aerobics. 

 

Namita Jain is a lifestyle and weight management specialist, and clinical fitness specialist with the Bombay Hospital Mumbai. She has authored five fitness books and DVDs including her bestseller, "The 4 Week Countdown Diet".