AUSactive survey suggests fitness programs for older adults will be key exercise trend in 2023

An AUSactive survey predicting key fitness trends for 2023 has revealed that fitness programs for older adults as taking the top spot for the first time.

AUSactive’s national survey of industry professionals and businesses found the industry continues to return to pre-pandemic levels with body weight training and home exercise falling in popularity as people return to group exercise and facility-based exercise.

Advising that it was great to see fitness programs for older adults climb to the top spot after featuring highly in previous years both in Australia and internationally, AUSactive Chief Executive, Barrie Elvish commented “I speak from personal experience that It’s fantastic to see older Australians taking up regular exercise programs.

“We’ve found since the pandemic, many people in our communities are more focused on their overall health and the benefits exercise has on our mind and body.

“With an ageing population that continues to grow in size, it’s important for our businesses and registered exercise professionals to develop quality programs designed to improve the health and quality of life of the older adult population.”

Australia’s 2023 Top 10 Fitness Trends

1. Fitness Programs for Older Adults

2. Functional Fitness Training

3. Strength Training with Free Weights

4. Group Exercise Training

5. Employing Registered Exercise Professionals

6. Wearable Technology

7. Pilates

8. Outdoor Activities

9. Personal Training

10. Body Weight Training

Linda Clark, a Group Fitness Instructor from Castle Hill Fitness and Aquatic Centre in Western Sydney where their timetable now has five dedicated seniors’ classes each week, said older adults were now more aware of preventative health than ever before.

Clark explained “the seniors who attend these classes are looking at exercise as a way of increasing their longevity and quality of life, while lessening the risk of diseases associated with ageing.

“It’s actually inspiring to see. They love coming to class! Their social network increases and many leave class to have a coffee together. Not only do we have group fitness classes, but we also offer seniors’ gymnastics and seniors’ yoga programs.

“Just over 10 years ago we only had one class a week so it’s fantastic to see the demand from this demographic growing.”

Noting that the survey also found the number of Australian group fitness businesses, including Pilates, continues to rise, representing the demand for a social and affordable way to exercise, Elvish added “this change reinforces the desire of Australians to return to health and fitness facilities - not only for exercise but for the sense of community and social nature of exercising with other people.

“For the first time, Pilates has entered the top 10 too, ranking at 7, and in Australia features the highest compared to other regions around the world.

“There is little surprise in that result, as there has been a surge in interest in mind-body modalities, including Yoga, as many people are looking to take a holistic approach to their health.”