Therabody is investing over $10 million in scientific research initiatives, forming a Scientific Advisory Board and partnering with the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the wellness tech brand announced.

The $10 million investment will be allocated toward conducting scientific and clinical research studies across various domains including beauty, wellness and athletic performance over the coming years. Therabody’s Scientific Advisory Board will also be comprised of four experts in their respective fields to guide research strategy, initiatives and product development.

The board is comprised of Dr. Pamela Peeke, a physician and scientist specializing in integrative medicine and women’s health; Dr. Daniel Giordano, a Doctor of Physical Therapy who focuses on performance health and longevity; Dr. Robin Thorpe, a global leader in recovery science; and Dr. Neera Nathan, a Harvard-trained dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon specializing in dermatologic surgery and laser medicine.

Together, the board will advise on research strategy, related initiatives and content, and co-develop new Therabody products related to their areas of expertise. 

“I am thrilled to welcome this caliber of scientific leadership to Therabody,” said Monty Sharma, president and CEO of Therabody. “Our Scientific Advisory Board, along with our significant investment in scientific research and partnerships, will ensure we remain at the forefront of our industry and dedicated to developing the most effective, scientifically validated products available today and in the future.”

Therabody x ACSM

Therabody is also committed to working with ACSM on the sponsorship and exhibition of new therapies at the ACSM Annual Meeting in May 2024. The organization is made up of over 40,000 physicians, scientists, educators and health fitness professionals, and is considered a leader in sports medicine and exercise science. 

Therabody has long been dedicated to scientific research, demonstrated by an extensive research portfolio with 21 scientific studies completed to date and an additional 26 in progress. Therabody Labs is the company’s in-house team of scientists and engineers to test and optimize their products. 

Expanding Access to Wellness

The new announcements come as Therabody has been focusing its efforts on expanding the accessibility of its products, including its new beauty line. Therabody released the TheraFace Vibration Mask, which is a light therapy mask clinically proven to reduce signs of aging. The mask is a complement to the TheraFace Pro, which has different attachments for various skin concerns, such as aging, acne, tension relief, and more.

Therabody founder and chief wellness officer Dr. Jason Wersland spoke with Athletech News last year about the new beauty line and the company’s mission to democratize access to wellness and beauty through its products.

Last year, the wellness tech brand also launched three new massage guns in a push to target everyday wellness consumers: the Theragun Relief, Theragun Sense and Theragun Pro Plus.

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At the forefront of the battle against obesity, a panel of exercise physiology and weight management experts presented a session at the 2024 IDEA & ACSM Health & Fitness Summit, February 22-25 in Chicago, to explore the integration of GLP-1 medications into exercise programming. 

The session, “Understanding Contemporary Anti-Obesity Medications and the Role of the Exercise Professional,” shed light on the synergistic relationship between GLP-1 medication therapy and exercise for weight management, and explored challenges fitness professionals face when working with clients who take an anti-obesity agent.

GLP-1s & Programming Considerations

The session, presented by John Jakicic, PhD, Robert Kushner, MD and Renee Rogers, PhD, offered multifaceted perspectives on the complexities surrounding GLP-1 medications and their implications for fitness professionals. Panelists highlighted that these medications are not indicated for modest weight loss. 

Kushner, a seasoned obesity medicine physician and medical director of the Center for Lifestyle Medicine at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, said that anti-obesity medications are “highly effective for the treatment of obesity,” and can help control appetite.

He stressed that these medications should be used under the supervision of a doctor and are meant to be part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes diet, exercise and behavioral therapy.

As people lose weight on new anti-obesity medications, a concern is emerging that a significant portion may be lean mass, which has been misconstrued by some as specifically being muscle mass.

Jakicic, a research professor in the Department of Internal Medicine in the Division of Physical Activity and Weight Management, University of Kansas Medical Center, said it’s important to clarify that a change in lean body mass does not necessarily reflect the change in muscle mass. Muscle is only one component of lean mass, he said, and muscle mass has not been measured in any studies at this point, although he indicated that it was currently being researched.

Health and fitness professionals should be careful about making claims that programming can stop or attenuate lean mass and muscle mass loss for clients who are taking anti-obesity agents, according to Jakicic.

GLP-1s & Behavior Change

Rogers, senior scientist at the University of Kansas Medical Center and chair of ACSM’s Strategic Health Initiative on Behavioral Strategies, brought attention to the behavioral barriers faced by people on anti-obesity medications, including self-efficacy (confidence) issues. She stressed the need for fitness professionals to create inclusive environments that prioritize individual health goals over weight-centric programming. 

“By fostering partnerships with prescribing healthcare providers, fitness professionals can play a pivotal role in supporting clients on their weight loss journey,” Rogers said. 

A key point from Rogers’ research, which she touched on during the session, was that many people experience stigma directly and indirectly from fitness and other health professionals for using these medications, which discourages some people from seeking exercise support. 

“This creates an opportunity for the fitness industry to create welcoming and accepting spaces,” she said, underlining client-centered programming over method-centered programming where the client’s personal health goals are emphasized over weight loss. 

“This is also a critical time for developing partnerships with healthcare providers who prescribe these medications so their patients can incorporate exercise and physical activity into treatment plans,” she said, adding that the goal is to become a trusted member of the obesity treatment team. 

The Future of GLP-1s in Fitness

In light of the ever-growing prevalence of obesity and the increasing adoption of GLP-1 medications as a treatment modality, the insights gleaned from the 2024 IDEA & ACSM Health & Fitness Summit panel hold implications for the future of GLP-1 usage. 

Rogers said that most clinicians prescribing these medications can only recommend that their patients engage in exercise, but it is the fitness professional who can make this a reality. 

“This starts with understanding how these effective agents work and are properly prescribed, staying up on the science of obesity care, and being accepting of clients who choose to take these medications,” she said, adding that fitness professionals are the “special sauce” and they have the skills and knowledge to help clients find joy in movement, feel comfortable and safe when starting a new program, and develop health-related goals beyond what happens to the number on the scale.” 

The 2024 IDEA & ACSM Health & Fitness Summit panel was part of a larger event that merged IDEA Personal Trainer Institute and the ACSM Health & Fitness Summit in a reimagined, new conference. ACSM’s 2024 Annual Meeting is happening May 28-31 in Boston and 2024 IDEA World is set to take place July 10-14 in Los Angeles.

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The fitness industry’s benchmark for excellence is continuously shifting, highlighting the critical need for fitness professionals to stay informed. Fitness education and certification is on the cusp of a new era, fueled by technological innovation, evolving client expectations and a deepening comprehension of wellness.

Ahead of IHRSA 2024 and other upcoming fitness industry trade shows, Athletech News spoke with leading organizations shaping the industry’s future, including the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) and National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). These players are driving innovation by launching new products, services and initiatives designed to improve fitness professionals’ skills, employability and influence.

As we step into 2024, the blend of technological advancements, a focus on wellness over traditional fitness training, and the introduction of innovative programs and tools promise to redefine professional excellence in our industry. 

ACE Commits to AI Education & Community Building

The American Council on Exercise (ACE), founded in 1985, provides NCCA-accredited certifications, continuing education and evidence-based health information. Sarah Beavins, ACE’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing, said that ACE is dedicated to keeping health and exercise professionals equipped with timely, relevant information, and named artificial intelligence (AI)/fitness technology as one area of focus in 2024.

She referenced a recent report from Future Data Stats in which the global AI in Fitness and Wellness Market was valued at $7.80 billion in 2022, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.5%, reaching $30.56 billion by 2030.

“AI can be an assistive tool in developing personalized recommendations and adaptive programs for clients, and all exercise professionals and health coaches should understand the ins and outs of this emerging technology,” Beavins said. “AI also has the power to help health and exercise professionals run a more efficient business, while growing and maintaining their clientele.”

Another area of focus for ACE is building a unique community where health and exercise professionals have a trusted, safe place to connect. Beavins mentioned the recently launched ACE Pro Connect 2.0 app, which “allows like-minded health and exercise professionals to share ideas, talk through pressing issues and gain insights to build their career.”

Beavins also highlighted ACE’s goal to create timely educational content that helps exercise professionals and health coaches navigate the evolving landscape of weight management and GLP-1 drugs and announced that ACE will be offering a 200-hour yoga certification this year. 

ACE is also actively working to ensure that those in the LGBTQIA+ community experience a welcoming and inclusive fitness environment. The organization offers several EDI education resources, including courses, webinars and LGBTQIA+-specific live conversations so fitness professionals will be equipped with not just the knowledge but the tools to serve individuals who have not always felt welcome in a health or fitness setting.

ISSA Focuses on Wellness Coaching, Recruitment

Since 1988, the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) has been working on its vision to connect 100 million people to the power of healthy living by 2030, with a focus on service, promoting wellness, and fostering connections.

ISSA’s Chief Growth Officer, Craig Bradley, said that this year marks a significant shift towards embracing optimal wellness, strongly supported by ISSA’s commitment to health coaching. 

“In the fourth quarter of last year, we expanded our portfolio by acquiring Health Coach Institute along with other prestigious brands in the wellness education space, signaling our dedication to this growing field,” Bradley said. “Data suggests that consumers are increasingly prioritizing wellness and fitness, with interest in these areas outpacing traditional fitness training by a substantial margin. This indicates a clear preference for holistic health and life coaching over conventional training methods that focus mainly on physical exercise.”

Bradley also mentioned the development of a recruitment solution tool, launched last year, designed to connect ISSA graduates with potential employers. 

“We’ve observed a strong demand from the industry for such a streamlined recruitment process,” said Bradley. “This platform showcases our graduates, featuring their profiles, qualifications and locations. With approximately 3,000 trainers graduating monthly, many are actively seeking career opportunities, particularly within their local communities. This system allows us to directly address the industry’s demand for qualified trainers by offering direct access to a pool of newly certified professionals.”

Of note, ISSA is also expanding its highest enrollment course offerings in Spanish, recognizing the global diversity of its audience.

NASM Launches Comprehensive Membership Program

The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) has been educating fitness professionals for over 35 years, and offers a range of science-based training programs and strategies.

The company recently launched a membership program called NASM One, a response to the growing realization that achieving and maintaining health is a multifaceted endeavor that demands a deep understanding of nutrition, mental health and the ability to leverage technology to achieve better outcomes. 

“NASM One brings together multiple tools and exclusive resources to support fitness professionals’ personal development, professional growth and career longevity,” said Mike Fantigrassi, MBA, MS, senior director, product development. 

“At launch, NASM One features over 300 continuing education courses, four career education courses, how-to and trending topics guides, the EDGE app, member discounts, CPR/AED certification, and unlimited access to NASM fitness experts.” 

NASM has also updated its Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) course, which is designed for performance-minded coaches.

“The PES combines critical thinking with a deep understanding of exercise science to tailor training that minimizes injury risks and maximizes athlete potential,” Fantigrassi said. “With a focus on individual athletes, the course integrates real-world coaching insights and the latest in sports psychology and recovery science.”

NASM has included new chapters on communication and youth training, alongside evidence-based injury prevention, which Fantigrassi said ensures (fit pros are) equipped to support both the physical and mental aspects of athletic performance.

ACSM Offers Enhanced Training Programs for the Modern Era

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) was established in 1954 and has grown into a global sports medicine and exercise science organization, with more than 50,000 international, national and regional members, all committed to promoting healthier lifestyles.

Francis Neric, MS, MBA, associate vice president of certification and credentialing, said that ACSM continues to advocate for efforts to raise the bar for health fitness industry certification through its professionalization efforts, including third-party accredited certification, requiring accredited exercise science degrees to sit for its highest level certifications, and the national registration of exercise professionals.

In 2024, ACSM turns its efforts toward career advancement and healthcare referrals. ACSM recently launched new Inclusive Fitness Specialist, and Physical Activity and Public Health Specialist designations. Additional ACSM offerings scheduled for launch in 2024 include a Youth Exercise Specialist and a Cancer Exercise Specialist, developed in partnership with the American Cancer Society, with more options planned to be introduced later this year.

“ACSM has converted its specialty certifications (written exams only) into educational certificate programs,” said Neric. “Educational certificates are advanced training programs that extend a certified professional’s capabilities to practice in specialized fields. These fields either: (1) are emerging areas with limited and/or ongoing research, or (2) require additional training, knowledge, or skill to safely and effectively work with clients or patients, taking into account unique considerations.”

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In a shift from pandemic-era outcomes, the American College of Sports Medicine’s (ACSM) 2024 Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends indicates a move back to in-person fitness experiences while continuing to emphasize the role of technology in the fitness industry. The annual survey highlights evolving consumer needs and the sector’s adaptive responses.

Initiated in 2006, the ACSM’s annual survey has historically been a reliable predictor of fitness industry trends, reflecting shifts in societal attitudes and technological advancements. The 2024 version collated insights from nearly 2,000 professionals across the fitness industry, including personal trainers, exercise physiologists and group exercise instructors

The 2024 survey showcases an array of upcoming trends, with a notable emphasis on boutique fitness studios and subscription-based memberships. This signals a departure from the previous focus on online training and home gyms, which gained prominence during the pandemic. 

Here are some other trends highlighted in the report:

Wearables Continue To Lead

Wearable technology leads as the top trend, signifying a strong consumer interest in personal health data and fitness tracking. Wearable technology has ranked in the top three since 2016, highlighting the growing popularity of devices that track health metrics like heart rate, calories burned, and sleep. 

“We know that social support is one of the strongest predictors of exercise self-efficacy,”  said A’Naja Newsome, Ph.D., ACSM-CEP and survey spokesperson. “It is important for exercise professionals to leverage the capabilities of wearable technology to improve adherence and autonomy for clients.”

Corporate Wellness Is Top of Mind

Coming in second is a newcomer to the top ten list – worksite health promotion. Companies are increasingly investing in health-promoting initiatives, such as providing access to fitness facilities, organizing employee wellness programs and offering health education workshops. By integrating these health-focused strategies into the workplace, employers are acknowledging the profound impact that a healthy workforce has on the success and sustainability of their organizations. 

Grace De Simone, wellness director, Wyckoff Family YMCA, Wyckoff, New Jersey, has over 20 years of experience in the corporate wellness sector. She says that people returning to the office post-COVID may be driving this heightened attention on workplace wellness. 

“People are more anxious and cautious than ever,” says De Simone. “Employers are providing wellness education and programs, including coaching, mental health awareness and training, meditation, yoga, and physical activity. Full-time employees spend a third of their day at work, whether it’s at home or in the office. The opportunity for preventive and impactful services for their health is an enormous and important initiative.”

Older Generations Embrace Fitness

The third spot belongs to fitness programs tailored for older adults. As more Baby Boomers enter retirement, this group is focusing more on staying active and independent. The 65-plus population increased 38% from 2010-2021 and is projected to keep rising over the next two decades. Regular exercise enables older adults to maintain health and independence as they age.

Debbie Bellenger, owner, DB Fitness and Wellness Solutions, Campobello, South Carolina, says it’s crucial for fitness professionals to acquire specific training and development around working with older adults. 

“We need to closely follow longevity research and understand that this demographic expects more than just physical health – their whole well-being is key,” says Bellenger.

“Learning about common age-related health conditions, fall prevention, balance and mobility issues allows us to develop appropriate programs,” she adds. We should use age-appropriate cues, music and relatable communication styles. Pre and post assessments help monitor client progress.”

Bellenger advised that, looking forward, the industry needs to grasp concepts like recovery timeframes to avoid overtraining older adults. 

“With rising neurodegenerative diseases, we have to recognize symptoms and customize plans accordingly,” she says. “Loneliness is another huge factor, so facilitating social connections within groups can directly impact wellness. We need the tools to support older adults in finding purpose post-retirement.”

More Top Trends

Other trends in the top ten indicate a focus on using tech and customized programming to improve mental and physical wellbeing. Mobile apps, exercise for mental health, and personal training all made the list. There is also a push for policy changes to increase access and affordability of qualified exercise professionals.  

De Simone, who is also a mental health first aid instructor serving the corporate wellness population, pointed out that in the first year of the pandemic, the global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25%, according to a scientific brief released by the World Health Organization (WHO). Just two weeks ago, the WHO declared loneliness a global health threat. De Simone encourages fitness professionals to get a Mental Health First Aid credential to help meet clients’ needs. 

“The hope is that this combined publication, and the addition of trend categories, will allow (people) to understand trends predicted to drive the health and fitness industry here in the U.S. and abroad,” said Newsome.

View the full 2024 ACSM Worldwide Fitness Trends report here.

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The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and IDEA Health & Fitness Association, two foundational professional organizations in the fitness and wellness sector, have announced a collaborative event aimed at advancing education and professional development in the industry. 

The summit will target personal trainers, group fitness instructors, fitness facility owners and managers, clinical exercise specialists, and other health and fitness professionals. The event will give personal trainers the opportunity to earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs), network with like-minded peers, and learn from fitness industry experts in an interactive environment. 

Scheduled for February 22-25 in Chicago, the 2024 IDEA & ACSM Health & Fitness Summit will combine the strengths of both the IDEA Personal Trainer Institute and the ACSM Health & Fitness Summit. This merged event will replace the individual offerings traditionally hosted by each organization. 

“This collaboration between two of the world’s leading entities in continuing education will be a significant boost for fitness professionals and business owners,” said Amy Boone Thompson, CEO and owner of IDEA.

Kristin Belleson, CEO of the ACSM, believes that the combined event will elevate the conference experience.

“By integrating the IDEA and ACSM models, we anticipate delivering an enhanced conference,” Belleson commented.

Registration for the 2024 IDEA & ACSM Health & Fitness Summit opens on November 7, along with more information about the program and travel arrangements.

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Great news for fitness consumers who have been eyeing a wearable: Whoop has announced it’s lowering its subscription prices.

Whoop founder and CEO Will Ahmed took to social media to announce the new pricing structure that impacts Whoop’s 12 and 24-month membership platforms – the lowest it’s ever been in the brand’s history. 

For those who joined Whoop before the announcement, Ahmed noted that those consumers would be granted a 1-3 month extension based on their membership type.

“We want as many people as possible to be able to improve their health. This will make Whoop more accessible than ever before,” Ahmed said in the clip. 

Whoop annual subscription prices will decrease from $300 to $239, and 24-month subscriptions will drop from $480 to $399. Whoop’s monthly membership will remain $30 with a 12-month commitment.

The ACSM named wearable tech as one of the top trends for this year.

Whoop’s CEO also confirmed that additional features are underway, including stress monitoring, a weight lifting feature to track reps, muscular strain scoring, new recovery details, and an updated home redesign. 

The changes are slated to roll out in the next few months. 

As Ahmed noted during his announcement, the lowered pricing is coming at a time when other fitness companies are going in the other direction. While he didn’t name names, there has been a trend of price increases as of late. 

At the start of the year, connected rowing brand Hydrow announced another round of layoffs and a monthly membership price increase from $38 to $44 in the US for new members. Tonal also conducted layoffs earlier this year and announced the cost of its Tonal trainer would increase by $500 and a membership price hike from $49 to $59.95.

Gamified cycling platform Zwift is also considering a price increase. Eric Min, co-founder and co-CEO of Zwift, recently addressed the company’s $15 a month subscription fee, stating that it isn’t sustainable in the long run term. He confirmed that Zwift is exploring locked annual memberships but noted that the cycling platform hadn’t raised prices since 2017. 

Fitness-focused software company Strava also announced a price bump, dependent upon the consumer’s region, whether they are a monthly or yearly subscriber, and whether they purchased their Strava subscription before November 23, 2022. 

Whoop laid off employees in its B2B corporate health arm this January, following a 15% reduction in staff last summer.

The human performance company recently teamed with wellness brand Hyperice to better educate fitness enthusiasts about the value of recovery to their health and performance.

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As you read this, are you reading it from your mobile device? If you glance at your wrist, are you sporting a wearable device? 

Technology and mobile apps have permeated all aspects of our lives, whether for work, education, or entertainment. Tech has undoubtedly significantly impacted how we approach health and well-being, but who plans to use mobile apps for health and fitness purposes this year (and who doesn’t) may surprise you.

One thing is certain: many consumers are connecting apps to their health and wellness goals. And why not? It’s a device that most view as an appendage, accompanying consumers wherever they go – whether it’s to the supermarket or the gym. 

New research from Airship, a mobile app experience company, has revealed that 8 in 10 people plan to use apps this year to boost their health and well-being. 

The survey, conducted by Sapio Research on behalf of Airship, took place in January 2023 and included insight with a global approach, reaching 4,000 consumers in the U.S., U.K., and France. Participants were 18 and over.

Here are some key highlights from the survey: 

Using a mobile app to connect with friends & family is nearly as important as working out

Wearable tech was named the number one fitness trend for this year, according to ACSM, and 81% of consumers plan to use apps or wearable technology to improve their health and well-being this year. 

The top three ways they’ll do that, the study finds, is through:

• Connecting with friends and family: 27% 
• Working out 26%
• Improving sleep – 17% 

Another finding is that Americans intend to use apps for nutrition and diet rather than improving sleep, whereas participants in the United Kingdom and France are more concerned with improving sleep first and diet second.

Baby Boomers are lagging in terms of app use, but they still make up a sizable portion 

Airship found that younger generations are more open to using apps for health and wellness, with Gen Z showing the highest interest at 94%. That should come as little surprise, as should millennials coming in at 90% and Gen X hitting 82%.

While only 65% of baby boomers intend to use health and wellness apps, they still account for a sizable portion of the population.

And there is still opportunity for seniors, considering SilverSneakers, an exercise program that caters to more mature fitness enthusiasts, will come equipped with Apple Fitness+ offerings this year – free of charge.

Americans have warmed up to using apps for healthcare appointments 

Apps are increasingly being used in healthcare, Airship found. Here is a breakdown of who plans to use apps for virtual doctor visits this year:

Americans – 15%

France – 10%

U.K. – 7%

Those in the U.S. are more likely to use mobile apps for telehealth, a stat that Airships says could reflect the strained healthcare system.

Americans also embraced virtual telehealth visits during the pandemic. What may have seemed as an impersonal and strange concept was welcomed by many who wanted to check in with their physician but perhaps didn’t want to go into the office during the pandemic.

Also, given the number of telehealth companies that have emerged in the mental health space, consumers are likely to continue to use an app for health appointments.

Biometrics: The wave of the future…but will it catch on with seniors?

With biometric tracking becoming increasingly accessible for the average consumer, Airship reports that only 10% of Americans plan to use apps for biometrics and heart monitoring.

Only 7% of boomers plan to use apps for such tracking. But, as Airship points out, since February is American Heart Month, the findings show the opportunity for increased education among older adults that statistically face a higher risk of heart disease.

On the other end of the spectrum, 13% of health-conscious millennials report they will use apps for biometrics in 2023.

Consider Levels, the first biosensor system to provide feedback on nutrition & lifestyle. The company recently announced a $38 million Series A funding round and has a $300 million valuation. Levels, a software company, is working towards solving what it calls a metabolic health crisis. 

With many people looking to connect their apps to their health this year, we may see a change in an alarming statistic: less than 7% of adults in the U.S. have good cardiometabolic health.

Thomas Butta, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer of Airship, remarked that life improves with better mobile app experiences, and for most people, it can apply to their health and well-being.

“Brands that earn a place in customers’ regular regimes can build enduring loyalty based on mutual respect and value,” he added.

Featured Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

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Vitruvian Trainer+, a smart connected strength training machine, is expanding its reach with a new partner program for fitness clubs and hotels and making its mark on the growing wellness tourism sector. 

Last year, the Australia-based Vitruvian raised $15 million in a Series A to accelerate production and expand in the U.S., and included investors Larsen Ventures and Steve Baxter of Australia’s “Shark Tank.”

The program will enable guest-based businesses to offer its members and guests strength training classes with Vitruvian Trainer+, which can load up to 440 lbs of resistance. According to a recent trend report from The American College of Sports Medicine, strength training is becoming an increasingly popular fitness method.

The connected strength training brand has already teamed up with nearly 50 health and fitness clubs to feature its fit technology. Now hotels and health clubs can offer group strength training classes to guests, who will be able to customize their workouts. 

As an added benefit, hotels and fitness clubs that collaborate with Vitruvian will be afforded the opportunity to join an affiliate partnership to sell the Trainer+ machines to guests at a discount while earning a percentage of the sales. 

The at-home strength and personal training platform, founded in 2020, was named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2022.

The Vitruvian Trainer+ uses AI to read motion 1,000 times per second, responding to users in real time. The trainer is able to then target when to increase or decrease the weight to provide the most efficient workout for the user. 

Unlike other at-home fitness systems, the Vitruvian Trainer+ is free-standing, doesn’t require drilling for installation, and can be easily stored. 

“Strength training can be intimidating and many embark on the journey by themselves,” said Jon Gregory, founder and CEO of Vitruvian. “We take the guesswork out of the equation and enable people to take charge of their health in the most effective and scientific way possible. We’re proud to be a partner with so many progressive gyms to unlock the world of personalized resistance training across the globe.”

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The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has released a list of 20 2023 industry trends, plus international fitness trends for Australia, Brazil, Europe, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, and the US. Here is the list of the top 10 ACSM trends for 2023.

Wearable technology

Wearables include smart watches, heart rate monitors, fitness trackers, and GPS tracking devices. This category has led the rankings for most years since it was introduced into the survey in 2016.

Strength training with free weights

For all categories of fitness enthusiasts, strength training has been gaining traction. This category includes using barbells, dumbbells, and kettlebells for improving muscular fitness.

Body weight training

Easy on-the-go and at home, body weight training can be far more intense than one might initially assume. The trend first appeared on ACSM’s trends survey in 2013.

Fitness programs for older adults

Programs for older adults have been becoming more popular. Older fitness enthusiasts may have more disposable income, so fitness clubs and boutiques are looking to capitalize on this growing market.

Functional fitness training

Training to improve balance, coordination, functional strength, and endurance will improve one’s daily life. Functional fitness first appeared in 2007, and has made a comeback this year.

Outdoor activities

This category includes group walks, rides, paddle boarding, mountain biking, and organized hiking. Outdoor activities can range from just a few hours to multi-day affairs. Due to the pandemic, these activities have been more popular than ever.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

While sessions vary in format, they generally include accessories like dumbbells and bands, and can also include cardio activities like cycling and stair climbing.

Exercise for weight loss

Weight loss and exercise programs have been making a comeback, perhaps due to the extra weight consumers gained during lockdowns.

Employing certified fitness professionals

Trainers have been on a roll in the industry, with more gyms and boutiques desiring to hire certified health and fitness professionals.

Personal training

One-on-one training has continued to be a strong trend in the rankings; consumers seem to desire more personalized attention. In 2008 and 2009, the category was in the top 3 of the rankings, but has since dropped in popularity.

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The survey results are in, and health and fitness professionals predict that wearable technology will be the top fitness trend in 2023.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) released its findings in its January/February issue of ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal. The annual international survey says that technology continues to impact the fitness industry, with wearable tech as a leading trend.

“Wearables are certainly not going anywhere,” said ACSM Past President Walter R. Thompson, Ph.D., FACSM, lead author of the survey. “Not only are these devices becoming more affordable, but wearable data is increasingly being used in clinical decision making so they are continuing to hold their appeal,” he said. 

The survey, now in its 17th year, assists the global health and fitness industry in making programming and business decisions. The most recent survey evaluated 42 potential trends, with the top 20 described in the report.

While wearable tech was named the number one fitness trend for 2023, here are some other highlights from ACSM’s findings:

At-home gyms may start to collect dust, as people return to the gym

At-home fitness, which saw a significant increase during the pandemic, is now returning to pre-pandemic levels. According to the report, online fitness training was the top trend in 2021 but fell to ninth place in 2022. In 2023, online fitness fell to 21st place. This trend drop, according to ACSM, indicates that fitness enthusiasts have returned to in-person fitness and have neglected their home fitness routines in favor of returning to the gym. As Dr. Thompson noted of this year’s survey, “The results could also very well be titled ‘post-pandemic recovery impacts the fitness industry’ or ‘what happened to online training and home gyms?’” 

Function Fitness has gyms returning to the basics

Fitness facilities have embraced strength training with free weights, which was ranked at the number two spot, with body weight training taking the third spot. Core and circuit training ranked at number eleven and twelve, respectively. 

HIIT holds firm, despite the pandemic

In spite of the effects of the pandemic, the ACSM found that certain fitness trends have remained unchanged — like HIIT. Both in 2022 and 2023, high-intensity interval training has held steady at the number seven position on the list.

Fitness for the aging population sees a spike

Some fluctuations were seen in fitness programs aimed at older adults, the ACSM finds. These fluctuations were most likely caused by COVID-19 as well as the shift that saw some older populations enter retirement and turn towards fitness goals. This genre of fitness moved from the eleventh spot in 2022 to the fourth spot in 2023.

The full list of top 20 trends is available in the article “Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2023” and is available here.

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The ACSM/Elevance Fitness Index used 34 evidence-based indicators to evaluate America’s 100 largest cities, declaring Arlington the fittest city. They studied factors grouped into categories such as health behavior, health outcomes, built environment, recreation facilities, and policy and funding. Arlington was the fittest city in six indicators and scored among the top 10 cities in 19 of 34 categories. It ranked number 1 in both the personal health and community/environment sub-scores. All cities can be compared to Arlington by using the City Comparison Tool. The overall top five cities were Arlington, Madison, Minneapolis, Washington, D.C., and Seattle.

Stella Volpe, Ph.D, R.D.N., ACSM-CEP, FACSM, and chair of the American Fitness Index Advisory Board, attributed Arlington’s continued success to “one word—access. For example, it is easy for people to walk to get coffee, walk to lunch from work, etc. Even if they are walking to get ice cream, they can get there without a car. That makes it one of the biggest reasons it does well.”

While funding can be a challenge for some cities, even small investments, like adding a small park, a trail, or a bike lane, can have noticeable impacts on the fitness indicators of a city. ACSM and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, around 22 minutes per day, as well as muscle-strengthening activities twice a week. Access to outdoor areas or easily-accessible workouts can change personal behaviors, reducing obesity rates and incidence of chronic disease and stress. 

Mental wellness was a focus of the ACSM Health and Fitness rankings in 2022. The Fitness Index found that 39.6% of residents in the cities evaluated reported poor mental health. Nearly 58% of adults in the U.S. have had negative mental health effects from the pandemic. Volpe spoke of this year’s focus on mental health, “We alter our indicators from time to time to ensure that we are capturing everything. We felt like we needed to add mental health because it is often something people aren’t thinking about. We didn’t want to ignore it, and we should certainly include it because of the pandemic. A lot of people showed things like anxiety and depression over the past year. We know that exercise can help with mental health. It can stave off depression, or help people who are depressed. It increases things like endorphins in our brain.” Cities reporting the highest rates of poor mental health include (listed from highest to lowest) New Orleans, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., San Jose, and Madison. Fostering community during workouts, whether virtually or in-person, could improve mental health. Having an accountability partner, a fitness community, or a caring instructor could make a difference in the lives of many.

Small changes from the fitness community and city leaders and planners can have a large impact on improving a city’s fitness rankings. To community members, Volpe recommended, “Try to move every day. It doesn’t have to be a mile or a marathon, it can be five minutes of going outside. We know that physical activity is the best medicine. It is one of the best things we can do for ourselves.”

Image credit: Ejsamps, licensed under Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0)

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The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) identified the top trend in fitness for 2022: wearable tech. 

ACSM released its survey results in the January/February issue of ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal. The report, “Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2022,” highlights health trends to help the fitness industry to get a look at consumer demands. 

Walter R. Thompson, Ph.D., FACSM, ACSM-CEP, and lead author of the survey says that the fitness world continues to feel the effects of the pandemic. “The more widespread use of vaccinations and our need to get back to a normal lifestyle are definitely reflected in the 2022 trends,” Dr. Thompson said. 

ACSM says that wearable technology has been the number one trend since it was first introduced in its survey in 2017, with the exception of 2018 and 2021, when it ranked third and second. The wearable tech trend may have faced questions of accuracy, but the report indicates that these issues have seemed to be resolved, as wearable tech is now estimated to be a $100 billion industry. ACSM notes new wearable tech innovations like blood pressure monitoring, oxygen saturation, body temp, respiratory rate, and electrocardiogram.

The pandemic has caused a significant demand for wearable tech including hearables, or electronic in-ear wearables. With at-home work on the rise and consumers becoming more focused on health, consumers are opting for wearable tech that can serve a dual purpose, like earbuds that measure heart rate. ACSM’s report is in sync with CES 2022, where wearable health tech was on full display with a reported 100+ health companies signed up to exhibit.

Other trends identified by ACSM include:

• Home Exercise Gyms
• Outdoor Activities
• Strength Training with Free Weights
• Exercise for Weight Loss
• Personal Training
• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
• Body Weight Training
• Online Live and On-demand Exercise Classes
• Health/Wellness Coaching

ACSM also published an article that captures a global understanding of health and fitness, comparing trends in North America, Australia, Brazil, China, Europe, Mexico and Spain.

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The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has released its annual rankings of fitness industry trends, called ACSM Health and Fitness Journal worldwide survey, and, predictably, online training and outdoor activities have raced up the list as fitness buffs fled gyms and studios amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Group exercise classes and workplace health programs have all taken a tumble as people avoid crowded spaces and work remotely.

The ACSM Health and Fitness Journal survey has polled fitness professionals annually for 15 years to chart the growth of various workout types and fitness approaches. Its 2021 trend rankings were compiled from 4,377 responses from trainers, club owners and operators and other pros on what clients are demanding or expressing interest in.

The top 20 trends are as follows.

1. Online training
2. Wearable technology
3. Body weight training
4. Outdoor activities
5. HIIT (high-intensity interval training)
6. Virtual training
7. Exercise is Medicine
8. Strength training with free weights
9. Fitness programs for older adults
10. Personal training
11. Health/wellness coaching
12. Mobile exercise apps
13. Employing certified fitness professionals
14. Functional fitness training
15. Yoga
16. Exercise for weight loss
17. Group training
18. Lifestyle medicine
19. Licensure for fitness professionals
20. Outcome measurements

In a sign of the pandemic’s impact on the market, online training and outdoor activities, the first and fourth hottest trends, zoomed up from last year’s ACSM Health and Fitness Journal list, which was released in January of 2020. Online training was number 26 and outdoor activities was 13 in that edition. Both helped people maintain exercise routines while gyms and studios were closed or deemed unacceptable risks.

The survey separated virtual training, trending at number six on this year’s list, from online training in that it is offered as a prerecorded library as opposed to live streaming. The category was not used in previous surveys, so there is no point of comparison, but its high place is no doubt partially due to coronavirus concerns.

Also, some trends dropped in the 2021 ACSM Health and Fitness Journal rankings because of the effects of the pandemic. Group training, which made the top ten from 2017 to 2020, fell to number 17 as gyms closed and gatherings were discouraged.

“Worksite health promotion and workplace well-being,” number 18 last year, fell out of the top 20, perhaps because many people abandoned their workplaces to work remotely.

However, not every trend can be explained solely by the pandemic and not every activity experienced a significant change in demand.

Wearable technology had been the number one trend from 2016, when it was introduced to the ACSM Health and Fitness Journal survey, through 2020, bolstered by the array of trackers and smart watches brought to the market. It is holding steady at number two.

Body weight training and HITT, trended number three and five, respectively, this year have ranked highly over the last few years.

The remaining four categories in the top ten of this year’s ACSM Health and Fitness Journal survey, from number seven to ten, are “exercise is medicine,” an integration of exercise into medical recommendations and regiments; strength training with free weights; fitness programs for older adults; and personal training. None moved significantly from their pre-COVID-19 rankings.

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Arlington, Va., has been named “America’s Fittest City” in the annual American Fitness Index^® rankings published by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the Anthem Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Anthem, Inc.

The science-based ACSM/Anthem Fitness Index evaluated America’s 100 largest cities using 33 health behaviors, chronic diseases and community infrastructure indicators. Seattle, Wash.; Minneapolis, Minn.; Madison, Wis.; San Francisco, Calif.; Washington, D.C.; Irvine, Calif.; Denver, Colo.; Boise, Idaho; and Boston, Mass., round out the top 10 fittest cities.  Boston makes its first appearance in the Top 10 this year. You can access the full rankings and scores, summary report, city comparison tool and other insights on the American Fitness Index website at www.americanfitnessindex.org.

“We are pleased to reinforce our commitment to our local communities and whole person health and wellness with this year’s Fitness Index report. These annual rankings offer cities meaningful guidance on health habits within their communities and reveal how well those communities encourage healthy lifestyles among their residents,” said Gail K. Boudreaux, President and CEO of Anthem, Inc. “We’re pleased to provide municipalities with the data-rich information and resources they need to address social determinants of health and to motivate action.”

The evolving Fitness Index, now in its 13th year, allows leaders to focus on policy, systems and environmental change strategies that are based on evidence and create sustainability for their communities.

Arlington’s balance of healthy behaviors and community infrastructure earned it the #1 overall rank. Arlington ranked in the top 10 cities for 19 of the 33 indicators in the ACSM/Anthem Fitness Index. Two indicators ranked #1, including lowest rate of adults with obesity and highest rate of residents meeting aerobic and strength activity guidelines. Arlington has earned the fittest city title three consecutive years. You can compare your city to Arlington or others ranked in the Fitness Index by accessing the online City Comparison Tool.

The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates the critical role cities play in ensuring their residents have opportunities and infrastructure to lead physically active, healthy lifestyles. “We know from research that physical activity can build a healthier immune system and overall wellness, which help minimize harmful effects of illness and disease,” said Barbara Ainsworth, Ph.D., M.P.H., FACSM, chair of the American Fitness Index Advisory Board. “This pandemic shows the need to have local parks, trails and connected sidewalks in all neighborhoods that allow people to exercise safely. City leaders and planners need to act boldly and decisively to enact policies and funding to promote physical activity, better health and stronger communities.”

Ainsworth also notes that societal health challenges existed long before the pandemic, and the Fitness Index has provided the data needed to address them for more than a decade. “It should be of national concern that only one in four Americans meets national physical activity guidelines and more than 30 million have diagnosed heart disease,” she adds. “Sedentary lifestyles across the United States cost more than $117 billion annually in sick care services, adversely impacting both our nation’s health and economic well-being. This challenge has local solutions, and the Fitness Index is a prescription for communities to bring about positive change.”

Additional findings from the 2020 Fitness Index rankings include:

• Across all 100 cities, indicators improved for the rate of residents exercising; fewer people smoking; parks within a 10-minute walk; and Bike Score, as compared to 2019.
• Buffalo, N.Y., Toledo, Ohio, and Anchorage, Alaska, rankings improved by at least 15 spots from 2019.
• Only 22% of adults in the 100 largest cities met the guidelines for both aerobic and strength activities. Adults need 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity, or roughly 22 minutes per day, for substantial health benefits.
• Across all 100 cities, only 4.5% of residents walk or bike to work and only 7% use public transportation. Boston, Mass.; Jersey City, N.J.; New York, N.Y.; San Francisco, Calif.; and Washington, D.C., reported the largest percentages.
• Neighborhoods connected by sidewalks, protected bike lanes, lighting and benches reduce pedestrian fatalities. Safety features can impact how often residents choose to walk or bike. The 10 deadliest cities for pedestrians (four are in Florida) averaged 5.5 pedestrian deaths per 100 residents, while the 10 safest cities averaged 0.6 fatalities per 100,000 residents.
• Cities that experience weather extremes made it into the top 10 – Minneapolis, Minn. (#3); Madison, Wis. (#4); and Denver, Colo. (#8), showing that local leaders can make it easier for residents to stay physically active year-round.

More comparative data and indicator rankings are available at www.americanfitnessindex.org.

The 2020 ACSM/Anthem Fitness Index rankings are as follows: 

1. Arlington, Va.
2. Seattle, Wash.
3. Minneapolis, Minn.
4. Madison, Wis.
5. San Francisco, Calif.
6. Washington, D.C.
7. Irvine, Calif.
8. Denver, Colo.
9. Boise, Idaho
10. Boston, Mass.
11. San Diego, Calif.
12. St. Paul, Minn.
13. Chicago, Ill.
14. Oakland, Calif.
15. San Jose, Calif.
16. Portland, Ore.
17. Honolulu, HawaiiA
18. Atlanta, Ga.
19. Lincoln, Neb.
20. Sacramento, Calif.
21. New York, N.Y.
22. Pittsburgh, Pa.
23. Milwaukee, Wis.
24. Albuquerque, N.M.
25. Buffalo, N.Y.
26. Chula Vista, Calif.
27. Santa Ana, Calif.
28. Virginia Beach, Va.
29. Long Beach, Calif.
30. St. Petersburg, Fla.
31. Austin, Texas
32. Aurora, Colo.
33. Colorado Springs, Colo.
34. Durham, N.C.
35. Anaheim, Calif.
36. Raleigh, N.C.
37. Anchorage, Alaska
38. Norfolk, Va.
39. Jersey City, N.J.
40. Fremont, Calif.
41. Newark, N.J.
42. Omaha, Neb,
43. Orlando, Fla.
44. Los Angeles, Calif.
45. Tampa, Fla.
46. Richmond, Va.
47. Miami, Fla.
48. Plano, Texas
49. Lubbock, Texas
50. New Orleans, La.
51. Cincinnati, Ohio
52. Philadelphia, Pa.
53. Baltimore, Md.
54. Glendale, Ariz.
55. Reno, Nev.
56. Dallas, Texas
57. Cleveland, Ohio
58. Tucson, Ariz.
59. Riverside, Calif.
60. Greensboro, N.C.
61. Nashville, Tenn.
62. Hialeah, Fla.
63. Chandler, Ariz.
64. Scottsdale, Ariz.
65. Stockton, Calif.
66. Garland, Texas
67. Charlotte, N.C.
68. Mesa, Ariz.
69. Houston, Texas
70. Winston-Salem, N.C.
71. Phoenix, Ariz.
72. St. Louis, Mo.
73. Irving, Texas
74. Columbus, Ohio
75. Chesapeake, Va.
76. Fresno, Calif.
77. El Paso, Texas
78. Baton Rouge, La.
79. Kansas City, Mo.
80. Gilbert, Ariz.
81. Toledo, Ohio
82. Jacksonville, Fla.
83. Laredo, Texas
84. San Antonio, Texas
85. Corpus Christi, Texas
86. Lexington, Ky.
87. Henderson, Nev.
88. Las Vegas, Nev.
89. Louisville, Ky.
90. Fort Worth, Texas
91. Wichita, Kan.
92. Fort Wayne, Ind.
93. Arlington, Texas
94. Indianapolis, Ind.
95. Detroit, Mich.
96. Memphis, Tenn.
97. Tulsa, Okla.
98. North Las Vegas, Nev.
99. Bakersfield, Calif.
100. Oklahoma City, Okla.

# # #

About the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)

ACSM is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world. More than 50,000 members and certified professionals around the world are dedicated to advancing and integrating scientific research to improve educational and practical applications of exercise science and sports medicine. A global leader in promoting the benefits of physical activity, ACSM advocates for legislation that helps the government and health community make physical activity a priority. ACSM encourages Congress to support continued funding of parks, trails and safe routes to school to better enable all Americans to meet the prescribed physical activity recommendations included in the National Physical Activity Guidelines. Find details at www.acsm.org.

About Anthem Foundation

The Anthem Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Anthem, Inc. and through charitable contributions and programs, the Foundation promotes the inherent commitment of Anthem, Inc. to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and families in communities that Anthem, Inc. and its affiliated health plans serve. The Foundation focuses its funding on strategic initiatives that make up its Healthy Generations Program, a multi-generational initiative that targets: maternal health, diabetes prevention, cancer prevention, heart health and healthy, active lifestyles, behavioral health efforts and programs that benefit people with disabilities. The Foundation also coordinates the company’s year-round Dollars for Dollars program which provides a 100 percent match of associates’ donations, as well as its Volunteer Time Off and Dollars for Doers community service programs. To learn more about the Anthem Foundation, please visit http://www.anthem.foundation and its blog at https://medium.com/anthemfoundation.

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