Six for '12: Health-and-fitness trends we expect in the new year

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Fitness trainer Cynthia Kernodle is quick to list opportunities to improve folks' exercise regimens. (TRIBUNE MEDIA ARCHIVES)

It was the 1980s and gym-goers everywhere were clad in leg warmers and Spandex tights trying their best to master the bouncy stretches their aerobics instructor was teaching them to do.

Thankfully, fitness trends seem to be getting less faddish and more about common sense.

Wonder what's in store for the new year?

Here are my 2012 fitness-trend predictions:

Fitness programs geared towards overweight adults

Gyms, fitness trainers and instructors will work to make people of all sizes and fitness levels feel comfortable in a group fitness setting. This will lead to an increase in fitness classes modified to suit overweight or obese adults. In Winnipeg: Pilates Manitoba offers plus-size Pilates classes.

Efforts to reduce and prevent childhood obesity

More than 26 per cent of Canadian children are overweight or obese, according to the Childhood Obesity Foundation. This means that many kids face shorter life expectancies than their parents, say researchers. In 2012, more people will pay attention to these startling facts. In turn, we'll see healthier snacks in day cares, more kids-only fitness facilities and parents dedicated to helping their kids be their healthiest, physically active best. Where to find the trend in Winnipeg: At Xcel Sport and Fitness, a gym that offers programming just for kids. It is owned by physiotherapist Lia Arniel, who is married to former Winnipeg Jet and current Columbus Blue Jackets head coach Scott Arniel.

An increase in Internet-based health and weight-loss help

More and more people in search of health information are turning to the web, numerous studies report. In fact, 80 per cent of all Internet users have searched for health information, according to the Pew Internet & American Life Project. The health and fitness industries are taking advantage of these numbers as they offer more websites and fitness apps aimed at helping people lose weight. (Examples are sparkpeople.com and Lose It, a free app that consolidates your exercise and food logs into one).

A demand for personal trainers with more qualifications

Canadians are more aware than ever that a personal trainer is more than just someone with a six-pack abs who is good at commanding you to drop and do 10 pushups. Instead, health-and-fitness consumers are demanding personal trainers who have practical experience and are certified with reputable fitness organizations. Many gyms also require that their trainers have university degrees in physical education or another body-related science. Winnipeg connection to trend: The Manitoba Exercise Professionals Association (mepa.ca) is dedicated to helping consumers find degreed physical activity professionals.

Prenatal fitness

Not too long ago, pregnant women were encouraged to lessen or discontinue exercise during pregnancy. Today, Canadian doctors have changed their position. In fact, the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada encourage pregnant women with low-risk pregnancies to engage in cardio and strength training. With this change in position, pregnant women in 2012 will have more group fitness options designed just for them. Where to find the trend in Winnipeg: Fitness 4 Two operator Aileen Hunt offers pre- and post-natal fitness classes. (www.fit4two.ca/area/winnipeg-west-manitoba)

Exercising without special equipment

Instead of heading to the gym to get fit, more people will realize they do their cardio and resistance training at home without the need for specialized gym equipment. Doing standing pushups against a wall or running on the spot in your living room will be commonplace in 2012. Winnipeg Connection: Celebrity trainer and former Winnipegger Jennifer Cohen, has made a living on this concept with her No Gym Required book and line of products and gym classes.

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Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition November 14, 2011 D1