Projected Health Trends for 2014

It’s been estimated that around 40 percent of Americans make a New Year’s Resolution. The most common aspiration is—you guessed it—weight loss. Too bad a University of Scranton study suggests that only 8 percent of Americans actually turn their resolutions into reality. Researchers tie this dismal track record to people’s inability to set defined goals. In other words, instead of saying “I’d like to lose some weight,” you should be saying, “I’m going to lose 15 pounds this year and here is my timeline.”

Health trends in 2013, like the use of technology applications via your phone or tablet device, have been helpful for goal-trackers. Distance tallies, nutrition guides and sleeping aids are among the top health-related applications downloaded from the Apple. Companies like Nike have generated exceptional sharing power via social media as aspiring runners share their workout progress. This, in turn, inspires followers to jump on the fit-lifestyle bandwagon.

Communal support of a health-oriented lifestyle isn’t restricted to social media. 2013 has converted lazy people to CrossFit junkies and 5kers to Color Run enthusiasts. Even spin classes have made a comeback. Companies like Soulcycle, FlyWheel and Kinetic Cycling create an exclusive, one-of-a-kind, spin class event. These experience-driven workouts have fused social engagements with intense calorie burns. And yet, nobody is too sore to come back for seconds.

Diet fads have stayed strong this past year, especially the popularity of gluten-free products. It’s projected that only 1 percent of the American population actually suffers from celiac disease. An additional 10 percent of Americans are projected to have gluten sensitive allergies. Despite these low populations, gluten-tolerant people are buying specialty pastas and breads.

As 2014 approaches, health and fitness reporters speculate what trends are in store. Many people participate in a la carte style workout classes. This isn’t expected to change. If anything, boutique gyms and yoga studios are anticipated to gain popularity in 2014. With relationship building business models, clients feel accountable to return for their daily workouts.

CrossFit’s high-intensity interval training model is expected to stay strong in the New Year. With short bursts of activity followed by brief periods of rest, these workouts require less time but endurance.

Body weight training, which hasn’t been on fitness-guru’s radar in years, is expected to come back. Yoga similarly uses the body to build strength, but body weight training is more cardio-centric in discipline. This appeals to individuals looking for toning and strengthening without having to invest in equipment. Programs for older adults are being further developed as the large baby-boomer population ages. Health and fitness professionals understand the importance of mobility in old age but have struggled with creating an approachable, universal curriculum. 2014 is expected to be the year of advancements in this sector.

Author Bio:

This article was published by Daniel Black on behalf of The Texas Health and Fitness Center.