Fitness seekers look for function over fad

Fitness trends this year focus on a functional, holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

Gym junkies are trying everything from Mixed Martial Arts training programs to ‘Battleropes’ to Russian military-style strength and conditioning tools. However, those looking for something new should beware of ineffective ‘fads’.

National Fitness Development Manager of Fitness First Australia, Martin Harasek, said: “Only fitness trends based on sound scientific foundations . . . that are fun, motivating and can be consistently incorporated into one’s every day routine . . . will survive in such a fast-paced and innovative industry.”

It is often difficult for first-timers to navigate through the plethora of information and services available to determine a suitable fitness regime.

Senior Research Fellow at the University of Sydney Medical School, Dr Hidde Van Der Ploeg, said: “Any physical activity with at least a moderate intensity is beneficial for your health . . . The best way for most people to engage long term in a physical activity is for it to be functional and enjoyable.”

A report by the World Health Organisation suggests that just 30 minutes per day improves overall health and reduces the chance of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer.

Founder of The Jungle Body, Tara Franzinelli developed the dance-based exercise in Western Australia because she saw a gap in the market.

The Jungle Body combines Latin and contemporary dance, hip-hop, boxing, pilates, 70s disco and football training to help participants burn around 600 calories per class.

“After working in America as a business consultant to a major gym, I realised Australian group fitness had become uninspiring, ineffective and well behind international standards,” Ms Franzinelli said.

Jungle Body first-timer Veronica Vella said while she wouldn’t abandon her gym membership but she could see the benefit in using the new work–out to complement her routine.

“If you want to tone-up and have fun, [The Jungle Body] is really good,” she said. “I probably do enjoy this more because of the music and the moves.”

While The Jungle Body is sure to be a hit, Mr Harasek at Fitness First Australia said physical activity should be enjoyable and consistent.

“It is not critically important to follow trends in the fitness industry – the important part is to find activities [you] enjoy and can incorporate into a consistent routine,” he said.