ACSM Trends 2023 Report: Body Weight Training, Strength Training, and Wearable Tech Leads

ACSM’s Health and Fitness Journal conducted a worldwide survey of 4,500 health and fitness professionals globally to determine the trends expected to shape the industry during 2023

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has released a list of 20 2023 industry trends, plus international fitness trends for Australia, Brazil, Europe, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, and the US. Here is the list of the top 10 ACSM trends for 2023.

Wearable technology

Wearables include smart watches, heart rate monitors, fitness trackers, and GPS tracking devices. This category has led the rankings for most years since it was introduced into the survey in 2016.

Strength training with free weights

For all categories of fitness enthusiasts, strength training has been gaining traction. This category includes using barbells, dumbbells, and kettlebells for improving muscular fitness.

Body weight training

Easy on-the-go and at home, body weight training can be far more intense than one might initially assume. The trend first appeared on ACSM’s trends survey in 2013.

Fitness programs for older adults

Programs for older adults have been becoming more popular. Older fitness enthusiasts may have more disposable income, so fitness clubs and boutiques are looking to capitalize on this growing market.

Functional fitness training

Training to improve balance, coordination, functional strength, and endurance will improve one’s daily life. Functional fitness first appeared in 2007, and has made a comeback this year.

Outdoor activities

This category includes group walks, rides, paddle boarding, mountain biking, and organized hiking. Outdoor activities can range from just a few hours to multi-day affairs. Due to the pandemic, these activities have been more popular than ever.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

While sessions vary in format, they generally include accessories like dumbbells and bands, and can also include cardio activities like cycling and stair climbing.

Exercise for weight loss

Weight loss and exercise programs have been making a comeback, perhaps due to the extra weight consumers gained during lockdowns.

Employing certified fitness professionals

Trainers have been on a roll in the industry, with more gyms and boutiques desiring to hire certified health and fitness professionals.

Personal training

One-on-one training has continued to be a strong trend in the rankings; consumers seem to desire more personalized attention. In 2008 and 2009, the category was in the top 3 of the rankings, but has since dropped in popularity.