Spark People recently released the top fitness trend predictions of 2017. Aside from being an interesting read, they actually serve as a huge surge of motivation to get up and smash those goals. We’re all for ending a year with plenty of progress to look back on, so we most definitely approve of any positive health and fitness trends that sweep the nation. Five predictions in particular stood above the rest, so we’ve decided to share them with you. Now get out there and achieve those PBs! More weight, fewer reps "Most people do the same exercises for eight to 12 and sometimes 10-15 reps per set. Our muscles have figured this out and have completely plateaued. I'm finally seeing gym-goers lifting weights for max strength and maxing out at five or six reps. This increase in intensity gives your muscles the stimuli to become stronger, increasing your function for sport and life, while also giving your body a boost in metabolism for maintaining lean muscle tissue and reducing fat." - Billy Polson, founder and co-owner of DIAKADI If you’re looking to take your strength training to the next level, this is excellent. There’s an awful lot of research to support this too, so be sure to have a Google and learn how to improve on those techniques. Strong over skinny "Women are becoming more empowered when it comes to all things body. And while we still have a long way to go when it comes to ridding the world of body shaming, more and more women are taking a stand and publicly embracing their curves. Being fit, but strong, not overly thin—a balance that is better for both body and mind—should continue to be a conversation in 2017." - Dempsey Marks Woman power! More of that please. With body shaming hitting its peak in recent years, it’s fantastic to see women hitting back, and proving that being happy with their body is what matters. Working to be strong, both physically and mentally, is the perfect example of a positive trend. Functional fitness "I think there will be a greater focus on functional fitness, as people age and want to maintain their quality of daily life as much as possible. I also think limited mobility workouts will continue rising in popularity, for those with medical issues or low fitness levels. There is a greater emphasis on improving health through exercise, even with medical problems, so finding ways to help people get creative and work within their limitations is important." - SparkCoach Jen Functional fitness is a hot topic in the fitness world. Working major muscle groups in their full range of motion, this type of exercise enables ease of movement – and is also fun. Who doesn’t want to have fun, whilst getting fitter and healthier? More strength training for women "I think we’ll continue to see a shift toward strength and power training, especially for women. There has long been evidence that weight training improves body composition (builds muscle and contributes to fat loss), but it has taken a long time for it to become more mainstream. Expect more women to swap the cross-trainer for the barbell as more gyms find space for the free weights in 2017." - Jodie Cook Proof that women should consider weight training. It’s not for everyone, of course, but if you’ve been considering it for some time – do it! There’s so much to learn and so many opportunities to better your strength and wellbeing through strength workouts. This doesn’t mean you should ditch cardio (unless you really hate it), simply find a balance that suits your lifestyle, and enjoy it. At-home workouts "Over 2016, we’ve seen an emphasis on the convenience of working out in the comfort of your own home. With the increasing cost of gym membership and the availability of expertise and routines online, it’s easier and more cost-effective than ever to exercise effectively at home." - Competitive powerlifter Jodie Cook We couldn’t let this one slip by, could we? Being the UK’s No.1 fitness equipment retailer, we’re all for home workouts. Whether you choose to workout with minimal equipment in front of the TV, or build yourself an award worthy gym in the comfort of your spare room, we fully support your decision – and we’d love to help! Check out our website to see what goodies take your fancy. Click here to read the original article in full. *Full credit goes to Spark People for the quotes provided.