The American Council On Exercise (ACE) has put out its Annual Exercise Trends for 2009.  The trends are based on a survey of its extensive worldwide network of personal trainers, group fitness experts, advanced health and fitness specialists and lifestyle and weight management consultants.

So here are the first five:

Bootcamp Style Workouts:  Boot camp workouts remain extremely popular because they provide a total-body workout that’s varied, fun and challenging. Up to 600 calories can be burned during a boot camp session, which is obviously going to facilitate weight loss. But in addition to a great cardiovascular workout, muscles are strengthened through high- and low-intensity exercises such as pushups, squats and lunges.  The muscle benefit of these type of workouts is superior to traditional cardio workouts.

Budget Minded Workouts:  With the economy the way it currently is people are looking to save on workouts and may even be cutting back on expensive gym workouts.  People are also cutting back on hiring personal trainers as well.  You can get a great workout at home using Team Beachbody workouts.  Also for only about $12 per month you can join Team Beachbody Club.  As a club member you get tons of great benefits.  You get an online super gym where you can meet other people – get workout buddies.  You also get 10% off all workouts and products.  On top of that every day you log in you have a chance to win up to $1000 in cash and prizes.  Save money and possibly win – that is perfect for everyone not only the budget conscious.

Specialty Classes:  Yoga and pilates are still big, but dance type classes are all the rage.  Zumba, a fitness program inspired by Latin dance, combines South American rhythms with cardiovascular exercise. Bollywood, ballroom, Afro-Cuban and other exotic dance styles are growing in popularity thanks to shows such as Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance.

Getting Back to Basics: Despite the fact that many exercises and equipment are becoming more advanced and trendy, trainers will continue to focus on basic movements and techniques with their clients again.

Circuit Training: Studies have shown that interval training combining strength training and cardiovascular activity at different intensities provides a more time-efficient workout than participating in traditional aerobic and weight training sessions. With an increase in popularity of circuit training, many gyms are even setting up their own circuits to allow their members an easy path to fitness.

Tune in for part 2.