As we move into 2013 there are many fitness trends which are here to stay. A buzz word in the industry over the last several years has been "functional training".
This is basically what I like to call fitness that makes us stronger in a shorter period of time. It enhances our ability to complete everyday tasks with ease as well.
According to an article on NewYorkDailyNews.com functional training is all the rage. It “targets a range of fitness needs in a short amount of time.” It is said to do so to counterbalance our sedentary lifestyle.
Those functional training regimens include bootcamps, P90x which was developed by “elite” trainer, Tony Horton. A bonus about the P90X Workout is that you can do it at home and do not need to go to a gym.
The science behind the program is their trademarked “muscle confusion.”
“Using the advanced Science of Muscle Confusion™, P90X is a well-organized training system that shows you how and when to change your routine for maximum results. So your body keeps changing throughout the 90 days and beyond.”
Kettlebell training can up your calorie expenditure by 50 percent. In fact, research shows that in just 20 minutes of kettlebell training, you can burn up to 300 calories.
When you factor in the increase in your heart rate, plus the amount of energy it takes to repair the body, you’ve increased your daily calorie expenditure as well. I am certified in kettlebell trainings and suggest starting with a lighter kettlebell of 5 or 10 pounds until you learn the moves.
The TRX Suspension Training is also a hot trend. I am also certified in this tool. I consider it to be the original bodyweight-based portable training tool that builds strength, balance, flexibility and core stability for people of all fitness levels.
This is the TRX Training Philosophy. “The body is an interconnected chain of muscles. Every movement we perform is a whole-body movement. That’s why TRX Training uses tools and movements that challenge the entire body in every plane of motion.”
This type of suspension training “builds superior muscular balance, joint stability, mobility, and core strength helping you perform better in any sport. It also improves posture and prevents injuries.”
Most gyms and training studios are offering this type of training in both class and individual settings. There are also a number of videos which can guide you through the workout. I do however, suggest consulting a fitness expert before beginning any exercise regimen.
Sources:
“Fitness Wellness Trends 2013 – NYDailyNews.com.” The New York Daily News. Web Dec. 28 2012.
http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/health/fitness-wellness-trends-2013-article-1.1226746?localLinksEnabled=false
“P90X – BeachBody.com.” P90X Extreme Home Fitness. Web 28 Dec. 2012.
http://www.beachbody.com/product/how-p90x-works-muscle-confusion.do
Kettlebell Concepts Performance and Health Track Level 1, 2006; Adam Khai-Cronin, Michelle Khai-Cronin, Dave Ganulin.
http://www.trxtraining.com/discover/who-we-are/training-philosophy
Joanne Sgro-Killworth is a Television Fitness Expert, Certified Personal Trainer and Sport Nutritionist. She is Certified in Pilates, Pre-natal/Post-Partum, Yoga and Senior Fitness. She specializes in Weight Loss, Post-Rehab and Post Cancer Training.
Joanne's fitness plans and recipes are available globally on her website www.fitnessanswer.com/ She resides in the Phoenix, AZ area with her husband and son, where she runs her personal training business, Fitness Answer, LLC.
Reviewed December 28, 2012
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith