Where will fitness, health, and overall wellness go in 2017? Here are a few of the areas expected to grow in the health industry in the coming year.
1. Boutique GymsÂ
Fitness studios that are typically smaller than a big box chain (typically 800-3500 sq. ft.) that offer expertise in a few specific areas have been growing since 2010. While the price tag does tend to be higher in these settings, the draw for many is a social atmosphere that fosters fitness success. Areas within boutique gyms that are still growing are boxing and cycling studios. Both forms of exercise that have been around for a while, but are getting a new twist with a group environment and their relationship to overall health goals, as they can combine cardio, strength and stress relief.
2. Virtual Reality Workouts
It’s not just for the latest video game! Virtual reality could also be used for your next work out. Gyms can create more immersive environments with the new tech creating cycling studios surrounded by mountain terrain, or rowing machines on the “open water.”
3. Streaming Workout Services
Most people can agree that the more convenient the exercise is, the more likely they are to do it. Streaming services are already popular for TV and movies, but they’re growing in popularity for workouts too. Some gyms can even schedule online appointments or set up workouts for you through mobile apps. Now there’s no excuse for missing a workout, and you can still get expert help. These features can also allow you to experience the fitness industry across the U.S. to see what’s popular from L.A. to New York City.
4. An experience that focuses on overall wellnessÂ
Studios that focus on more than exercise have seen and will likely see continued growth in 2017. Meditation and mindfulness practices are being added to gyms where there are designated quiet rooms to practice. Some gyms even have group run sessions. Gyms are also hosting educational sessions so that their members are aware of what other community organizations offer, or what medical and clinical offices the gym has partnerships with. I think we can all agree that overall health is important, and exercise is really only one facet of achieving that, so why not join a gym that tackles health from multiple dimensions?
Whatever your fitness goals may be in 2017, we encourage you to stay active and don’t be afraid to try something new!
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By Kimberly Burke
Kimberly Burke is the director of the Adult Fitness Program at Colorado State University, an outreach program through the Department of Health and Exercise Science. Adult Fitness offers exercise opportunities for employees of CSU as well as community members, while providing hands-on learning experiences for health promotion students. To learn more visit http://hes.chhs.colostate.edu/outreach/adultfitness.
