There’s no doubt about it, the pandemic revolutionised the way we conduct our lifestyle, and one aspect that definitely wasn’t left behind was the way we work out.
For many, the pandemic enabled us to place emphasis on our health, taking time out for self-care, working out, and even striking a healthier work life balance. And, as you transition into 2022, although many aspects of life are gradually returning to an old normal, working out is set to be a mix of gym sessions and home workouts.
What we did learn was that working out doesn’t have to be so serious, it is possible to have fun whilst improving fitness, losing weight, or just generally getting a sweat on. Whatever your work out goals are this year, here are a few of the fun trends to watch out for in 2022.
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Weighted Hula Hooping
Hula hooping may seem like a playground activity but it’s making a real comeback in the world of health and fitness. But weighted hula hooping isn’t quite the same as the activity you might remember when you challenged your friends to see how long you could hula for.
Weighted hula hoops are a progression from the original plastic toy version, they’re bigger, softer, and you’ve guessed it, heavier. Overall, challenging your core muscles and giving you a thorough abdominal workout.
That’s not all. The hula hoop can also be used to work out your arms and even your legs, once you’ve mastered the art.
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Reverse Running
Yes, you read that right, running backwards. In fact, research by PureGym found that Google searches for reverse running had increased by 50%.
It may sound abnormal, but reverse running has numerous benefits, including:
- Improves posture
- Improves balance
- Improves overall performance
- Can help rehabilitate injuries
- Burns more calories
However, don’t be fooled, running backwards is harder than you might think. So, you should begin by learning to reverse run on a flat, predictable surface in a slow fashion. For example, at the end of an easy run, add a 30 second interval of backwards running and build on that as you become better at it.
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ZUU Training
You’ve heard of high intensity interval training (HIIT) but what about ZUU? Created in Australia by Nathan Helberg, ZUU is a high intensity, low impact bodyweight training programme. If that all sounds too technical, here’s the fun part, it’s moving like an animal.
Sounds simple, right? Wrong. ZUU can actually be really difficult but one thing’s guaranteed, you’ll look ridiculous. It may sound silly, but ZUU was initially created over a decade ago for the Armed Forces and Elite Sports and is now used in over 68 countries!
The beauty of ZUU is you can join certified classes, or you can do it at home.
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Stroller Fitness
Stroller fitness is a type of exercise designed for mums (and dads!) who have small children. It’s a whole-body conditioning workout which incorporates cardio, core, and strength training, all the while keeping the little one’s entertained with fun activities and music.
The months after having a baby can be challenging, and many find that they just don’t have the time to work out, but stroller fitness is an easy way to incorporate working out into your daily routine.
There are classes available with buggyfit offering classes and trainers throughout the UK.
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Beer Yoga
Yes, this is a thing. Beer yoga originates from Germany and marries two great loves, beer, and yoga.
The idea behind beer yoga is to make the participant feel relaxed, happy, and de-stressed. This fun-fuelled activity does have its benefits, though, like helping you to feel relaxed, improves balance, and boosts your mood.
However, beer is a natural dehydrator. So, bear in mind that this is a “fun activity” rather than an effective one. Try swapping your beer for water in one of our brand-new gradient hydration tracker bottles.
These are just some of the new fitness trends to look out for in 2022. Have you already tried some of these? Share your pictures with us on social media.
