As a Los Angeles-based fitness guru and entrepreneur, one of the main things I love about the fitness industry is that it's constantly evolving. Yes, a push-up is still a pushup, but now with the boost of technology, there are myriad new ways to work out and stay healthy. (I would know, having starred in more than 100 fitness DVDs.) Even now, in a time of mass closures, you can stay healthy using fitness apps, devices, and innovations.
But since so many claim to be the next big thing, shopping for the right one can quickly become an overwhelmingly confusing (and frustrating) endeavor.
We've all seen those ads for any number of unproven or even sketchy fi tness products and supplements. And I hate to break it to you, but most of those skinny teas and waist trainers probably won't work. Just saying.
So we've done some of the heavy lifting for you by revealing the best fitness trends, gadgets, and industry developments everyone's already buzzing about. And you don't even need to leave the house to take advantage of them.
WEARABLE DEVICES: Apple Watch
Wearable devices have just about become de rigueur among gym rats, with the omnipresent Apple Watch easily leading the pack. The wearable art piece features a heart rate monitor, activity tracking, and live data. More features and apps that integrate with wearable devices in new and unimaginable ways are right around the corner.
FITNESS GAMING: Nintendo Ring Fit
The enormity of the gaming industry is undeniable (just Google "Fortnite"), and now Nintendo wants to incorporate fitness into the action too. Nintendo Switch recently released Ring Fit, a new game that uses devices to track your real-world actions and turn them into in-game movements. So-o-o cool! Ring Fit allows you to play a game on-screen by working out in person. Sold.
AUDIO FITNESS: Aaptiv
Aaptiv is the audio fitness leader. And no, I'm not just saying that because I happen to be a master trainer on the app (coolest gig ever!). Aaptiv really changes your entire workout experience. There's no longer a need to be locked to a screen -- just put your earbuds in and be guided through all kinds of satisfying workouts that incorporate running, spinning, strength, yoga, and even guided meditation.
SLEEP APPS: Sleep Cycle
Good sleep is important. Sleep Cycle is a free app that tracks your sleep patterns. Just place your phone beneath your pillow, and an alarm will wake you up at the most ideal state of your sleep cycles. The app uses technology in your phone to track your body's movement and breathing patterns. Fascinating.
RECOVERY: TheraGun
Recovery is, hands down, the fastest-growing category in the health and fitness industry. The TheraGun is essentially a targeted massage gun that helps your muscles relax and recover, and you can either use it on yourself or have someone use it on you. I don't know how I ever lived without mine! Honestly.
STREAMING VIDEOS: FitOn
Video workouts have been popular since at least the 1980s -- Jane Fonda, anyone? -- and today you can stream all types of workout videos on any device, anywhere, any time. There are countless video streaming apps, but my favorite is FitOn for two big reasons: First, it's free; and second, I'm on it. There are hundreds of free workout videos available from other rock star fitness trainers, including some fun ones by Queer Eye's fab Jonathan Van Ness.
VIRTUAL TRAINERS
Many personal trainers on social media now offer e-books or online workout plans for purchase. You can even book one-on-one video sessions with them online as well as get personalized meal planning. This category can be murky with unqualified influencers, so I recommend making sure you look for experienced trainers with the proper certifications and degrees.
SMART SCALES: Eufy BodySense
Scales can now do a lot more than tell you how much you weigh -- they measure body fat, muscle mass, and even water weight -- and you can track all of your progress on your iPhone. Great? Hmm, now you can finally see how much that weekend brunch affects your body. Bottomless mimosas, adios.
