The start of a new year is usually accompanied by a host of trends that take the health and fitness world by storm, and this year is no different. From new and exciting workouts, to events you can’t miss, 2018 is going to be a sweaty year! Here’s our predictions of what’s set to be big this year that you need to get involved in. New-fitness-trends-to-try-in-2018_1080  
#1. HIIT
People just couldn’t get enough of High Intensity Interval Training in 2017, and it’s going to be just as popular this year! Short and sweet, HIIT combines low to moderate intensity intervals with quick, high intensity intervals, resulting in a routine that keeps your heart rate up, burning more fat in less time. Great for those that are short on time, the workouts tend to only last 30 minutes or less, and can be done anywhere, at any time! Why not give these HIIT workouts a go?
#2. Functional Fitness
A real buzzword throughout the industry, functional fitness focusses on training regimes that prepare your body for real-life activities. By simulating movements that you do every day at home, (like squatting to pick something up, for example), you strengthen these muscles whilst reducing the risk of injury. Try incorporating kettlebells, medicine balls or slam balls into your routine for an effective functional fitness workout!
#3. Strength Training
Are you hitting the cross trainer regularly, but just not seeing the results you’re after? Strength training holds the key! Not just for building muscle, lifting weights also boosts your balance, helps you to sleep longer, strengthens your bones and burns more calories, even after you’ve finished working out! If you’re not sure of where to begin, get yourself a quality Standard or Olympic Weight Set to ease yourself in, and take a look at our tips for those incorporating weight training into their workout for the first time.
#4. LISS
Not a fan of those sweat-inducing, heart-pounding, high intensity cardio workouts? Don’t worry, we’ve got the answer, and it’s called LISS! Standing for low intensity steady state, LISS means performing any light cardio or aerobic-based activity for a prolonged period of time. Typically lasting between 30 – 60 minutes, LISS works your body effectively, allowing it to condition itself to using fat as a fuel source better for your next workout. Plus, since recovery is quicker, you’ll be able to jump on the elliptical for a LISS workout more often!
#5. Events
Whether it’s a marathon, strength competition or an insane obstacle course like Tough Mudder, there’s nothing more motivating than the need to get fit for an upcoming event! More people are taking part in endurance sporting events than ever before. For example, 2017 saw a record number of competitors at the London marathon with over 40,000 runners collecting their race packs, and we don’t see a let up anytime soon.   Are you already on board with any of these trends? Let us know what you’re loving on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram – or visit our contact page.