Are you tired of the old cardio standbys like the treadmill, elliptical machine or spinning classes? Do you find it hard to stick with a resistance-training routine? With gyms looking for more ways to maintain loyal members and remain competitive, amenities—spa services, juice bars and personal flat screen TV’s— have continued to improve. Also, at-home workout equipment has become more affordable for the average consumer. Once a luxury exclusive to the Hollywood elite, home visits from personal trainers are now mainstream.

Here are some of the newest trends in exercise and health clubs, which may help motivate you or invigorate your current workout regime.

2006 Predictions from the American Council on Exercise:

− More classes that offer a fusion of Yoga and Pilates with traditional forms of exercise in order to focus on the mind-body aspect of physical fitness.
− Balance training—utilizing wobble boards, Bosu balls, Pilates, Tai Chi, etc.
− Employer-funded wellness programs that encourage physical activity and provide nutrition and lifestyle education.
− Fitness programs designed for seniors, which focus on overall conditioning and injury prevention.
− Small group training classes will gain in popularity—these are a cross between large group classes and personal training, you get more attention than in the larger classes, but at a lower cost than 1-on-1 time with a trainer.

New fitness fads from across the country include:

− The Action Hero Workout, from NYSC, will keep you active with stunt techniques—combining gymnastics, martial arts, strength, endurance and agility.
− International flair—African, Indian and Caribbean dance-based classes keep you moving and entertained.
− Forza—a samurai sword training class, developed by Ilaria Montagnani, burns about 500 calories a class and tones the upper and lower body.
− Stiletto Strength, offered at Crunch (a chain of gyms) and developed by dancers, works on strengthening your body’s core along with feet, ankles and calves.
− Gliders—roller devices placed under each foot and used during an aerobic workout—force you to stabilize your body to maintain motion. Gym-classes are already using them or you can purchase a set to use at home.

So if you’ve had one too many walks around the block to keep you on track with exercising, look for some of the new options from local studios and gyms to get you back in motion.