It’s this time of year that I find it fascinating to take a look at what the “influencers” in personal fitness and wellbeing world think might be trending in 2024.

This is not meant to be a complete examination of the
topic. Merely my “snapshot” of what some experts in the field have
pronounced.

Due to the incredibly wide range of activities and fitness programmes on
offer, I have limited my analysis to those which are relevant to single person or
small-group coaching. So I shall not be covering event-based activities such
as CrossFit, Ironman, Hyrox etc.  My research has included search engine
surveys that the fitness and wellness media have been publishing.

Wearable Technology
There has been so much “noise” about this over the past few years so let’s
get this out of the way first.  Fitbits, Apple watches and Oura rings have
been at the forefront and will still be attracting attention in 2024 while
the desire for “self-measurement” remains popular.  However, there is
evidence that too much reliance on the data can be counter-productive in
terms of increasing “user stress”. I guess AI will gradually add a new (not necessarily positive) dimension to the fitness paradigm.

Bodyweight Training
Or ‘Calisthenics’. To be fair this has been a
staple of personal trainers’ tool kits for a long time because of its
accessibility and efficacy for the user. But it seems that the Covid
pandemic encouraged an increase in its use. Using the weight of the body to
create resistance is a very effective way of enhancing strength without
overloading the body.

Additionally, exercising for LONG TERM benefit over SHORT-TERM aesthetic reasons is gradually being recognised and emphasised! Longevity is an additional major motivator, rather than
solely developing muscles/losing fat.

Flexibility Exercise
This is something I have personally experienced to be on the rise amongst clients over 50. Sometimes called Mobility Training, it is particularly effective because it concentrates on improving and maintaining
range of movement in joints to enhance suppleness and agility and also to
help to prevent injury and soft-tissue damage. It’s not just for the older
folk; athletes find it useful to help develop their performance.
This form of exercise plays into the upward trajectory of ‘Mindfulness’,
deep breathing methods and all elements of physical awareness, stress
reduction and promoting general health and wellness.

Functional
Again, the general consensus is that Functional Training will continue to
grow in popularity. It resonates because it is based upon movements which
replicate natural everyday human actions and are great for improving
strength and balance.  Bodyweight movements, push and pull, balance and step-work
deliver improved coordination, stability and core strength.

Outdoor
Now I don’t suppose many of us realise that, when we’re out for a walk, for
example at the local woods, we’re actually indulging unwittingly in an ancient
Japanese custom called “Forest Bathing”.
It’s another activity that has been gathering acolytes in their droves and
is predicted to proliferate throughout next year. It could be that, again,
the restrictions imposed upon us by the government during the Covid pandemic
have led to a subconscious yearning to get out and enjoy the countryside.
But whatever the reason for its popularity, it’s got a real host of benefits
on the wellbeing front. Apart from immersing yourself in the ambience of the
trees in the wood, according to some observers it can boost your immune
system, reduce stress, perk you up, lower blood pressure and help you sleep
better.
As most of you will know, I offer both indoor and outdoor exercise
programmes but the good old UK weather usually has the last word when it
comes to where we end up! Either way I like to think our sessions usually
hit the mark!

Studio Fitness/Pilates
Now here’s a name that inspires respect! I am not alone amongst PTs in
including elements of Pilates in my classes and for good reason. It’s great
for improving posture and developing core strength –  more people are
realising it and will get into it (Especially ‘Wall Pilates’) in 2024 if my
sources are correct!
And in the same vein, some experts are predicting a rise in low-intensity
activities to complement the plethora of high-intensity exercises that
seemed to be on offer at gyms all over the country.  So we could see the
growth of workouts that focus on low-impact drills that are kinder on the
joints.

Recovery
Although as a PT I have always allocated time for recovery in my sessions, it
appears that recovery-focused fitness procedures will gain major prominence in 2024.
It will become customary to concern ourselves with reducing inflammation,
repairing muscles and preventing injuries by using equipment and techniques to alleviate damage and enable faster, long-lasting recovery from demanding workouts. If you’re not injured, you are able to come back for more!

Research and Acknowledgements:
https://fitnessdrum.com
www.stylist.co.uk/
https://fitonapp.com
www.puregym.com
https://betteraskme.com