Fitness in 2023 is evolving and you need to keep up with the latest trends and opportunities. If you are a fitness professional, gym owner, or aspiring entrepreneur, the landscape of the fitness world is dynamic.
1. Fitness Programs Mature Adults
A significant trend in the fitness industry for 2023 is the focus on fitness programs for people who are middle-aged or early retirement. With Australia’s aging population, it’s no surprise that this trend has gained momentum. Movement and exercise are crucial for maintaining physical and mental health as we age, and fitness programs tailored to older adults can provide numerous benefits. If you don’t use it, you will loose it the saying goes.
Regular exercise in older adults can reduce the risk of health issues such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, bone, and joint issues, and even some cancers. Exercise helps maintain healthy weight, reduce the risk of falls and injuries and improves sleep quality, reducing stress and anxiety, and enhancing concentration and mental health.
Australian Government Health statistics show that those aged 65 with only 30 minutes of physical activity on most days each week improve balance, strength, and flexibility.
2. Functional Fitness Training
Functional fitness training is a popular trend in Australia for 2023. Focusing on improving the body’s ability to perform everyday movements, such as climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or opening heavy doors. Functional training uses multiple muscle groups to mimic real-life movements, including squats, lunges, push-ups, step-ups, and balancing exercises.
Efficiency and accessibility is the genuine appeal here. Performing functional exercises using just your body weight and gradually add resistance as you get stronger. This form of training does not require expensive equipment or gym memberships, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.
3. Strength Training with Free Weights
Consistently a top trend in the fitness industry, and it continues to hold its position in 2023. Free weight exercises, such as using dumbbells, barbells, or kettlebells, are effective in developing strength and muscle growth.
Machines limit movement to a fixed plane, whilst free weight exercises engage stabilizing muscles in the legs and trunk. For example, performing a bicep curl with free weights while standing requires the use of the legs for stability, which is not the case with seated curl machines.
Free weights can be used at home without taking up much space. Incorporating them into functional movements like lunges and shoulder presses, or even create your own weights using household items like food tins or milk bottles filled with water.
4. Group Exercise Training
We are social beings, and the desire to connect with others while exercising is a fundamental aspect of fitness. Group exercise training is thriving in 2023 as people seek the motivation and camaraderie that comes from working out with others.
Group fitness classes offer a range of options, from high-intensity workouts to mind-body modalities like yoga and Pilates. Exercising in a group setting provides encouragement, support, and healthy competition, which can push individuals to achieve their fitness goals.
Group exercise training can lead to longer workouts and improved overall well-being, including reduced stress levels and an enhanced sense of community. A spin class, dance fitness session, or boot camp, group exercise remain popular trends for fitness enthusiasts in 2023.
5. Employing Personal Trainers
Working with qualified professionals ensure safety, efficiency, and optimal results. Registered personal trainers have undergone proper training and certification, enabling them to provide expert guidance and support to clients. They develop personalized fitness programs, monitor progress, and offer professional advice on exercise techniques, nutrition, and overall well-being.
A personal trainer offers greater accountability, increased awareness of personal health, access to a variety of training methods, and improved training variety. Those with chronic health conditions can benefit from working with accredited exercise physiologists who are specialized in using exercise interventions to help manage health conditions and disabilities.
6. Wearable Technology
The integration of technology and fitness has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, and wearable technology continues to be a significant trend in 2023. Wearable devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, offer a range of features that enhance the fitness experience and provide valuable data.
Tracking steps, heart rate, and calories burned, wearable technology now offers advanced features like GPS tracking, sleep monitoring, and even real-time coaching. These devices have become more affordable and user-friendly, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals.
One exciting development in wearable technology is the emergence of augmented reality (AR) contact lenses. Companies like Mojo Vision are working on AR contacts that can provide heads-up fitness displays during workouts, offering real-time information and guidance to enhance the fitness experience.
7. Pilates
Pilates has gained significance focusing on core strength, flexibility, and overall body conditioning. Emphasizing controlled movements, proper alignment, and breath control, making it suitable for individuals of all fitness levels.
Pilates offers a wide range of exercises that target different muscle groups, promoting improved posture, balance, and stability. It can be practiced using specialized equipment, such as reformers and stability chairs, or with just a mat.
The benefits of Pilates include improved muscular strength and endurance, enhanced flexibility, increased body awareness, and reduced risk of injuries. Group class or one-on-one sessions with a certified instructor, Pilates offers a holistic approach to fitness and well-being.
8. Outdoor Activities
In 2023, the trend of outdoor activities and fitness experiences continues to grow. With the desire to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits of fresh air and sunlight, more people are turning to outdoor workouts and activities.
Outdoor fitness activities can include hiking, biking, running, group boot camps, yoga in the park, and even outdoor obstacle courses. These activities provide a change of scenery, an opportunity to explore new environments, and the chance to challenge oneself in different ways.
Outdoor activities offer numerous physical and mental health benefits, including increased vitamin D levels, improved mood and mental well-being, enhanced cardiovascular health, and the opportunity to connect with nature and the community.
9. Personal Training
Personal trainers provide individualized guidance, support, and motivation to clients, helping them achieve their fitness goals. As fitness becomes more personalized, people are seeking the expertise and guidance of personal trainers to develop customized workout plans, address specific needs and limitations, and receive ongoing accountability and support.
Personal trainers can work independently or within fitness facilities, offering one-on-one sessions, small group training, or online coaching. The demand for personal trainers is expected to grow as individuals prioritize their health and seek professional guidance to optimize their fitness journeys.
10. Body Weight Training
Bodyweight exercises require no equipment and can be done anywhere, making them accessible to individuals of all fitness levels. Bodyweight training utilizes the resistance of one’s body weight to build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance overall fitness. It includes exercises such as push-ups, squats, lunges, planks, and burpees.
The convenience and simplicity of bodyweight training make it an attractive option for individuals who prefer to exercise at home or have limited access to fitness equipment. Bodyweight workouts can be customized to target specific muscle groups and adjusted to suit individual fitness levels and goals.
Making Money in the Fitness Industry
Now that we’ve explored the top fitness trends for 2023, let’s shift our focus to the various opportunities available to make money in the fitness industry. Whether you’re a fitness professional looking to boost your income or an aspiring entrepreneur seeking new ventures, the fitness industry offers a range of possibilities. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Start an Online Fitness Studio
With the rise of online fitness, starting your own virtual fitness studio can be a lucrative venture in 2023. An online fitness studio allows you to provide a wide range of fitness programs, specialized courses, and nutritional advice to a global audience. You can offer follow-along training plans, livestream classes, and build an exclusive community for your clients.
By leveraging technology and digital platforms, you can reach an unlimited number of clients, set your own prices, and earn a recurring monthly income. Platforms like Uscreen provide the tools and resources necessary to launch and monetize your online fitness studio successfully.
2. Develop a Fitness App
In the era of smartphones and mobile technology, developing a fitness app can be a profitable endeavor. Fitness apps offer a convenient way for individuals to access workouts, track progress, receive personalized recommendations, and engage with a fitness community.
Consider creating a fitness app that caters to specific needs or interests, such as yoga, HIIT workouts, or nutrition tracking. Monetization options can include in-app purchases, subscriptions, or partnering with fitness brands for advertising or sponsorship opportunities.
3. Provide Personal Training Services
As mentioned earlier, personal training remains a viable and lucrative career option in the fitness industry. By offering personalized training sessions, customized workout plans, and ongoing support, you can help clients achieve their fitness goals while generating a steady income.
Consider working independently as a freelance personal trainer or partnering with fitness facilities to provide your services. Building a strong client base and establishing a reputation for delivering results can lead to increased demand and higher earnings.
4. Create and Sell Fitness Products
If you have a knack for product development and innovation, creating and selling fitness products can be a profitable venture. This can include fitness equipment, workout clothing, fitness trackers, nutritional supplements, and more.
Identify gaps in the market or areas where you can offer unique and high-quality products. Establish your brand, develop a marketing strategy, and leverage e-commerce platforms to reach your target audience.
5. Offer Online Coaching or Consulting
Online coaching and consulting have gained popularity in recent years, and the trend is expected to continue in 2023. By leveraging digital platforms and communication tools, you can offer virtual coaching services, provide personalized guidance, and help clients achieve their fitness goals remotely.
Specialize in a specific niche or area of expertise, such as nutrition coaching, wellness consulting, or sports performance training. Build your online presence, create informative content, and establish yourself as an authority in your field to attract clients and generate income.
6. Host Fitness Retreats or Workshops
Fitness retreats and workshops provide an immersive and unique fitness experience for participants. Consider organizing fitness retreats in picturesque locations, offering a combination of workouts, wellness activities, and educational workshops.
Partner with local resorts, wellness centers, or fitness facilities to host these events. Develop enticing packages, market them to your target audience, and provide a memorable and transformative fitness experience.
7. Monetize Your Fitness Blog or Social Media Presence
If you have a passion for writing or enjoy creating content on social media, you can monetize your fitness blog or social media presence. Build a loyal following, provide valuable and engaging content, and leverage various monetization strategies such as sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, brand partnerships, and advertising.
Create a website or blog where you can share fitness tips, workouts, and nutrition advice. Develop a strong social media presence on platforms like Instagram or YouTube, and collaborate with fitness brands to promote their products or services.
8. Become a Fitness Influencer
As social media continues to play a significant role in the fitness industry, becoming a fitness influencer can be a lucrative career path. By building a strong personal brand and engaging with your audience, you can attract sponsorship deals, brand collaborations, and endorsement opportunities.
Create high-quality content, demonstrate your expertise, and cultivate an engaged community. Focus on authenticity, provide value to your audience, and establish yourself as a trusted influencer in the fitness industry.
9. Offer Online Fitness Courses or Memberships
Developing and selling online fitness courses or memberships can be a profitable way to share your knowledge and expertise with a broader audience. Create comprehensive courses on specific fitness topics, offer interactive modules, and provide ongoing support and guidance to your students.
Platforms like Udemy or Teachable provide the necessary tools to create and sell online courses. Alternatively, you can offer subscription-based memberships where members gain access to exclusive content, live classes, and community forums.
10. Provide Fitness Business Coaching or Consulting
If you have experience and expertise in running a successful fitness business, consider providing coaching or consulting services to aspiring fitness entrepreneurs. Many individuals are looking to enter the fitness industry but may lack the knowledge and guidance to navigate the complexities of starting and managing a fitness business.
Offer one-on-one coaching, group workshops, or online courses that cover topics such as business planning, marketing strategies, client acquisition, and operational management. Help others turn their passion for fitness into a profitable and sustainable business.
Fitness in 2023
From fitness programs for older adults to wearable technology and online fitness studios, there are numerous avenues to explore. Embrace the trends, leverage technology, and find your niche within the dynamic and ever-growing world of fitness. By staying informed, embracing innovation, and delivering value to your clients or audience, you can thrive in the fitness industry in 2023 and beyond.
