The demand for private gyms and health clubs is expected to increase steadily as public awareness of health and fitness grows and older generations begin to place more emphasis on staying in good physical shape.
Global Fitness Trends
The most popular trend in the world fitness industry is for courses run by professional trainers who are educated in the field of fitness and have certification that is recognized by an official body such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. This trend is expected to continue as more accredited courses are offered both in the United States and overseas. Global trends also show an increase in strength training programs, which moved from fourth place in the top 20 trends in 2008 and now hold second place.
World Market for Fitness Equipment
According to Global Industry Analysts (GIA), exercise has become one of the most significant trends of the 21st century. Its popularity has grown globally across all age groups, genders, and social and economic categories. The main reason for this growing trend is the increase in health awareness and concern for improved lifestyle changes.
GIA predicts that the market for exercise and fitness equipment is expected to exceed U.S. $10.5 billion by 2015.
Middle Eastern Influences
Countries in the Middle East are also expected to influence the expansion of the global fitness market. Dubai is a prime example; the Dubai Sports Council has recently developed a campaign called “Dubai Pulse.” The aim of the campaign is to encourage residents to exercise more often. The program promotes fitness activities in public parks but is also expected to boost the global fitness industry.
Another strong influence is SPORTEX, the Middle East’s top show for the fitness industry, which exhibits a range of sports equipment in its annual venue at the Dubai World Trade Center.
U.S. Trends
The American College of Sports Medicine has shown surprise about the exercises that have dropped down in the list of 2010-2011 fitness trends such as pilates and stability training. Meanwhile the American College of Fitness predicts significant changes in fitness courses aimed at stress reduction, in increase in the use of technology as fitness aids, the facilitation of health support groups and buddy systems in gyms and fitness centers, and more fitness classes focused on young people.