SINCE the Covid-19 pandemic reared its ugly head, training online and the use of fitness apps has gained popularity.
Daniel Maguire, a personal trainer from Mt Edgecombe, said training online has definitely become the new norm.
“Online fitness has always been available but, since Covid-19, more people have started making use of it because it works for them. Some need to be in a gym environment for motivation, while others are comfortable training from home. Apps such as My Fitness Pal is also a big hit as it’s a one-stop shop for all your fitness requirements,” he said.
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Fitness has always been a part of Maguire’s life. Even before he joined the army in 2012 as a member of the parachute battalion, he was a life-saver and trained regularly.
After he left the army, he qualified as a personal trainer as the training used in the army cannot be used to train others in the gym.
“I find that more people are opting for smaller classes and personal training as well as they feel safer from getting Covid-19. Body weight exercises have also become more popular as people sometimes can’t afford to purchase equipment. These include push-ups, sit-ups, mountain climbers and basically any exercise that incorporates just using your body weight,” he said.
While gadgets and fitness watches are the trend, Maguire said that not having one would not hinder your fitness journey.
He has noticed that strength training among women is more prevalent and noted that women no longer shy away from lifting heavy weights.
“There’s still the misconception that lifting heavy weights will make you masculine, but it doesn’t. It’s a very important component of training and I find that women are now getting more comfortable with this,” said Maguire.
Bootcamp, high intensity interval training (HIIT) and dance fitness are also at the top of the list of fitness trends that you may use in your everyday life, such as lifting something or climbing.
“It’s strength training, but in a functional way. HIIT is a great way to keep your heart rate up. Dance fitness, bootcamp and HIIT is a fun way to exercise. It doesn’t feel like you’re working out,” he said.
As people have begun to take a more holistic approach to fitness, Maguire also sees Yoga becoming more popular.
“What Yoga does is it teaches you to be comfortable in an uncomfortable situation. I advise people to incorporate Yoga into their training routines because it’s the mind that is ultimately in charge. If you teach your mind that it can achieve something that seems impossible, your body will also follow,” said Maguire.
For free advice relating to the mind, body and soul, follow Ignite Co. on Facebook.
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