The desire to stay physically fit and healthy has existed since the beginning of time. Long before we donned sneakers or special exercise gear, the ONE Thing for many was their physical wellness. Case in point? The Olympic Games, the pinnacle event for physical fitness and athleticism, is an idea that dates back approximately ten centuries to the ancient world. Despite the innate desire for us to feel healthy, we haven’t always given it the proper time it deserves and scheduled exercise into our calendars.
As recently as 1960, only 24 percent of Americans exercised regularly. As we’ve started to take a stronger look at our personal priorities, it comes as no surprise that our commitment to personal and physical health has improved in recent years. Earlier this year, it was reported that more than half (56 percent) of Americans now take time to exercise for at least 30 minutes regularly. This statistic continues to improve as the importance of being physically healthy is embraced by more people and they discover more time-sensitive options for getting the results they desire that fit into their busy schedules.
No matter how we choose to exercise, a focus on physical activity remains ONE Thing that can positively impact our health. Luckily, whether you choose to wear a tracker and walk 10,000 steps a day, practice yoga, train for an extreme obstacle course event, or something different entirely, there are endless alternatives for you to choose when you make the commitment to build a habit relating to your health.
Each year, the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal releases a comprehensive fitness report based on a survey given to thousands of health professionals. This survey contains 40 potential trends that health professionals rank from most to least popular, which are ultimately compiled together to form an annual list of worldwide fitness trends. Click on the graphic below to see how your own exercise routines compare to the latest fitness crazes.
