Five fitness trends to watch out for in 2022
From virtual reality to weighted hula hooping, Prudence Wade looks at what’s hot in the workout world this year
For many of us, the pandemic has completely transformed how we workout – with a bigger emphasis on flexible training and taking care of your body and soul.
In 2022, the ‘hybrid model’ will continue to be big news – as more of us seamlessly switch between at-home workouts and sweat sessions in the gym.
But there’s also an increased emphasis on having a bit of fun with your workout, as seen in many of the fitness trends set to be big in 2022. Let’s take a look...
1.Weighted hula hooping
The pandemic has seen us return to a whole range of childhood activities – just take a look at the boom of roller skating.
The latest nostalgic sport to add to your exercise routine is hula hooping – but perhaps not as you know it.
Weighted hula hooping challenges your core much more than it might have done when you hooped as a child.
It’s set to be hugely popular, with Puregym (puregym.com) naming it the world’s fastestgrowing fitness trend.
It doesn’t just target your core though, as you can even make it into an arm workout too.
2.VR fitness
At the opposite end of the spectrum is the predicted rise of virtual reality (VR) fitness.
It’s not just traditional fitness apps making their mark (although VR workouts like boxing and skiing are proving popular), but we’re also seeing the rise of ‘gamercising’ – VR apps making your workout into something fun, with challenges and adventures.
3.Reverse running
This is another fitness trend Puregym says is climbing in popularity. It originated in the Eighties but is now seeing a resurgence, and it’s a great one to try because you don’t need any fancy kit or expensive gadgets.
You’d be surprised how different running backwards feels to a forwards jog – it’s said to be easier on the joints, works your muscles in a different way, and is a real challenge for your coordination.
Just make sure you’re aware of what’s going on behind you, and be sensible!
4.Surfing
The cool water sport made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020, sparking a growing interest. It’s not the easiest discipline to master – you need patience, and will have to be prepared to fall down a whole lot. But there is nothing like catching the perfect wave. It’s also a full-body workout that will get your heart pumping and muscles toned.
If you’re nowhere near the sea, you could always try VR surfing.
5.HIRT
Move over HIIT, because HIRT – High Intensity Resistance Training – is set to be the next big thing.
This basically means short, intense bursts of resistance training – anything using weights.
It could be barbell squats, deadlifts, shoulder presses – whatever you want to train that day. The aim is to tire out your muscles and spike your heart rate, with short rests between each set.
It’s a good one to squeeze in if you want maximum results in the shortest amount of time.