Boot camp workouts are set to be big in 2011. Photo: Flickr, lululemon athletica
Fitness is just as much a victim of fashion trends as anything else - as anyone who remembers step classes and line dancing can confirm. But the latest worldwide survey of fitness trends by the American College of Sports Medicine has a shock in store for exercise fans: Pilates classes are on the way out, while newer work-outs look set to be popular in 2011.
Before you start weeping into your stability bands, here's what the survey says. After quizzing more than 2,000 fitness experts not just from the US but also from Europe and the rest of the world about what trends they think will be popular next year, the US experts discovered Pilates - which has been incredibly popular during the last few years - has dropped of the list of top 10 trends completely.
Other fads that have had their day include stability balls and balance training - which could for account for all those large rubber balls and wobble boards crammed in so many cupboards.
Among the new entries in the top ten trends for next year include - brace yourselves - military-style boot camp workouts. These incorporate cardiovascular, strength, endurance and flexibility training in both indoor and outdoor settings, and can be incredibly intense. You have been warned.
Other trends that still look strong for 2011 include strength training (weight training) and core training, where the emphasis is on the core muscles in the abdomen, pelvis, lower back and hips (which, funnily enough, is what Pilates focuses on), as well as exercise programmes designed specifically for weight loss.
Will you remain dedicated to Pilates next year, or are you thinking of trying something new for a change?