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Top 10 Fitness Trends in the Philippines

As a nation that loves to eat and drink, we have a pretty high number of over-weight people in our population. Being overweight can lead to a number of health risks, especially cardiovascular issues. This, plus the standards of “thin is beautiful” in society pushes many of us to lose weight and stay slim. It’s not wonder why many of us spend a lot on slimming and fitness.

Below are 10 Fitness trends and programs that’s all the rave in the country.

Zumba

In the 90’s we had aerobics. The 2000’s was the era of Tae Bo. This decade, it’s zumba. Zumba is an energetic dance fitness program that was developed by Colombian choreographer and dancer Alberto “Beto” Perez during the 1990s. It became a popular exercise trend here in the country especially amongst the younger and middle aged group.  The exciting rhythm of the music plus the different dance movements make it an enjoyable and fun option for those looking to get some exercise. A zumba class usually last for around an hour and can give you a full body workout.

CrossFit

Along with Zumba, CrossFitis one of the most popular workouts in the country today. Workout routines incorporate elements from high-intensity interval training, plyometrics, Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, gymnastics, calisthenics, girevoy sport, strongman, and other exercises. Individuals who perform  CrossFitusually go to a gym or a “box” and complete daily workouts. It aims to develop respiratory and cardiovascular endurance, strength, stamina,flexibility, power, coordination, speed, agility, accuracy, and balance. A lot of people also join CrossFit games, which lets them compete with other CrossFit practitioners in their city or in a national (and even international) level.

Yoga

For those looking for a more relaxing, and at times even spiritual, way of staying fit, yoga is a great option. The philosophies and teachings have been around for centuries, but modern yoga has captured the world as an effecting exercise that combines flexibility, muscle development, balance, and core workout. Most gyms are now offering classes for yoga, but if you find the classes to expensive (which often ranges from 150 up to 400 pesos per session), you can find a number of instructional DVDs. However, it is advisable to take a few classes first so you can learn the correct positions.

Insanity Workout

The Insanity workout created quite a buzz in the fitness world. No matter if you are looking for weight loss, or adding muscle mass or maybe just improving overall fitness, the Insanity workout claims to give the best results out there. It’s a program developed by Shaun Thompson, a fitness trainer and fitness motivator who has made a number of workout programs. This total body workout requires no gym or equipment, making it a big hit for those who want to work out at home. It’s based on afitness method called “max interval training”, which lets you exercise at an intense pace for a short time and rest right after.  The idea is to increase your aerobic fitness level while burning fat. This workout is a big hit since you just need to buy the DVD and follow the program.

Jogging

As a cheaper alternative to the gym, jogging will never be unpopular in the Philippines. After all, you only need a road and a good pair of running shoes. Filipinos often jog in local city parks and other similar open spaces. Those who live in exclusive subdivisions and villages just jog around their neighborhood. Jogging is a very social activity for us. We often prefer to have other people join us when we’re jogging. Something about the company that makes it even more enjoyable. It’s also one of the most effective workouts to do, whether you just want to sweat out or if you’re planning to lose weight.

HIIT

High-intensity interval training (HIIT), which is also known as sprint interval training (SIT) or high-intensity intermittent exercise (HIIE), is a type of interval training and exercise strategy that uses alternating shot periods of rapid and intense anaerobic exercises with less-intense recovery periods. It’s a great cardio workout and a top choice for those who want to lose weight. A session usually last to around 30 minutes to an hour. The short, intense workouts help improve athletic capacity and condition. It also improves glucose metabolism. A number of gyms have added HIIT programs to their list, some even specializes in it.

Bodyweight Training

Can’t afford to go to the gym and lift? Bodyweight training is a great option for you. This is a strength training exercises that does not require free weights. You use your own weight to provide the resistance for the movement. Movements such as the push-up, the pull-up, and the sit-up are some of the most common bodyweight exercises. Although there are gyms that specializes in bodyweight training, many choose to buy an instructional DVD to learn the exercise and movements and work out at home.

Dance Class

Whether its classic ballroom dancing or modern dances like pop jazz and hip-hop, we love to take dance classes to get fit and lose weight. And who wouldn’t? It’s a fun way to get some exercise, you get a total body workout, you meet new people, and you get to learn a couple of new dance moves. Local barangay health centers and sports complexes often organize dance classes and offers it to everyone for a small fee. But those who prefer to go to a more upscale setting, some gyms and dance studios open their doors to dance students of all age and shapes.

“Souping” and Healthier Food Options

Those who can’t regularly workout often choose to go for a healthier food and meal plan. from restricting your diet to only having soup to protein loading and not having carbs, hundreds of these are popping all over the internet. Although some of these meal and food plans sound crazy, people actually swear by them. Keep in mind though that if you’re going to drastically chance your diet, it’s best to talk to a nutritionist or a doctor first to know if there are any possible risks.

Diet Plan

And finally, a good old visit to the nutritionist for a proper diet plan is an option some go for. Some people follow a certain diet plan that they copied of a friend or the internet, but like all things that relate to heath, it’s best to consult a professional.  Everyone has a different need when it comes to nutrition, so having your own personalized diet plan can help. Most of the bigger gyms actually have nutritionist on duty so try asking your gym if they offer these services.

A healthy minds and body can help give you all the potential to make the most of your youth. Know any other fitness trends? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Don’t forget to share this article.

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