1.       TAKING FITNESS OUTDOORS

Throughout the pandemic, many studios and gyms, including the YMCA of San Diego County, have created outdoor fitness centers. Exercising outdoors isn’t a new concept, but a lot more people are venturing into the great outdoors for exercise. Local parks and green spaces have been the go-to spot. Running, hiking, and cycling are tops in popularity, providing an opportunity for people to spend time together outside their homes. Whether you are looking for an outdoor boot camp or morning swim, there are many options in San Diego that can fulfill your desire to workout outside!

2.       GOING VIRTUAL: REMOTE TRAINING AND COACHING

Online fitness is booming! Remote training and coaching allow individuals to work with a personal trainer or well-being coach in a one-on-one setting. Many businesses have expanded their online programming. Personal trainers and coaches are great for that extra accountability and motivation. Clients can easily get virtual support in many different areas of health and fitness with streaming services and apps.

3.       CONNECTION OF MIND AND BODY

In recent years, we’ve become more comfortable discussing mental health, and it has decreased the amount of stigma surrounding these topics. While physical fitness is important, mental health is a key component to an individual’s wellness. Lockdowns across the world increased feelings of isolation. Mental health is a big focus this year, with good reason. We’ll see an increase in mind and body exercises that can be done at the same time — yoga, Pilates, and martial arts for example. Stay connected online with our Be Well series every Thursday for a short Q&A webinar with industry experts on mindfulness here.

4.       CORPORATE WELLNESS IS ESSENTIAL

This year we'll likely see an increase and a renewed focus on wellness in the workplace. According to the ClassPass report, 25% of professionals are exercising more now than at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Exercise is medicine, and as we've placed higher importance on mental and physical health in the workplace, corporate wellness has become a necessity. Healthy employees who exercise regularly and positively manage stress tend to be more productive, less stressed and take fewer sick days.

5.       FOCUS ON HIGH-INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING

In 2020, HIIT (high intensity interval training) came in top on the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health and Fitness Journal and it looks like it's here to stay. HIIT is so popular because you can burn a lot of calories through a combination of active bursts and a short period of rest. Additionally, HIIT workouts don't require a large amount of space and can be done anywhere. If you’re busy, a HIIT workout is quick and efficient. HIIT is predicted to be the top choice of exercisers.