As I am about to move to Australia, I was inspired to do some research and look into some fitness trends going on around the world. When I was in business school, I learned that finding a great idea elsewhere and bringing it locally was a great way to start a venture so maybe certainly we can learn from other parts of the world when it comes to fitness.
Amsterdam
- Biking, biking and more biking: Not only is cycling a great way to get around, it is also a great way to stay in shape. In Amsterdam there are even bars on wheels, you can have a cold one while cycling around the city with a group of people. This is a trend in many parts of Europe.
China
- Macau, China – Free Fitness Options: In addition to free trails and playgrounds there is apparently often free exercise equipment available for use near these trails. 4 What a cool concept
France
- Parkour: Born out of military obstacle course training, this non-competitive activity is a combination of running and gymnastics. The goal is to propel yourself forward in an urban environment using techniques such as jumping and climbing to navigate obstacles. Mind and body coordination are important for fast, efficient movement.1
India
- Yoga: Focusing on the mind, body and spirit – yoga can be a meditative and spiritual activity that is great for mobility and flexibility.
Israel
- Krav Maga: is a martial art and self-defense system developed for the military in Israel that consists of a wide combination of techniques sourced from boxing, savate, Muay Thai, Wing Chun, Judo, jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and grappling, along with realistic fight training.2 It has also become a great way to exercise while learning to properly defend oneself.
- Matkot: is a beach paddle game that is similar to beach tennis. The resistance from the sand and need to move around a fair amount makes this a great way to stay in shape.
Japan
- Martial Arts: From Akido to Karate there are many great ways to protect yourself and get fit along the way. Martial arts also often deal with not only mastery of the body but also of the mind.
North America
- Obstacle races: Be it Tough Mudder, Spartan Race, or Concrete hero, over here we seem to be pretty keen on showing the world how tough we can be.
- High Intensity interval training like Crossfit
- Strength training
- Dodgeball
- Home gyms
- Apartment building gyms
- Employer sponsored fitness options
Spain
- Bossaball: Bossaball is only the coolest sounding thing and is a combination of volleyball, gymnastics and soccer. Two teams compete on an inflatable court with trampolines on each side. Players try to score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opposing team’s court. You can return the ball using your lower arms as in volleyball, or score more points using your feet. Filip Eyckmans created Bossaball in Spain in 2004, but the exciting sport continues to spread worldwide.3
Have you seen any cool fitness trends around the world? Please post them in the comments!
Sources:
1. http://www.active.com/fitness/articles/15-fitness-trends-from-around-the-world
2.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krav_Maga
3. http://www.active.com/fitness/articles/15-fitness-trends-from-around-the-world
4. http://www.sheknows.com/health-and-wellness/articles/813211/fitness-tips-from-around-the-world
