IHRSA 2014 Products and Trends

With the recent proliferation of low-cost gyms, CrossFit boxes and specialty studios, combined with the expansion of established health-club companies, the fitness industry appears to be in a period of significant growth. This was evident by the size of this year’s trade show at the annual International Health and Racquet Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) conference. As more consumers invest in health-club memberships, attend classes at private studios or sweat buckets during a grueling WOD, a number of established fitness companies are expanding their product lines to meet the surging demand.

There are certainly some products that make you shake your head and ask, “Why?” Others, however, are spot on in creating a new category or meeting a need. These are the ones that have you shaking your head and asking, “Why didn’t I invent that?”

The most noticeable trend at this year’s show was products and services intended to provide more interaction or touch points with the fitness consumer. Group fitness video on demand and a large quantity of biometric data-capture devices suggest that companies are looking to provide solutions to help people increase physical activity, both in and out of the gym setting. Other products featured ways to provide unique and engaging workouts for club goers.

When I look at a new product, I try to determine whether or not it might have sticking power. The “stickiness” of a new product depends on how intuitive it is to use and, more importantly, whether or not it is both safe and effective.

As I do at every IHRSA trade show, I tried to hit as many of the booths as possible and the following list includes what I think will be emerging trends in the coming years. The folks at Trigger Point, for example, have combined the benefits of self-myofascial release with the anti-inflammatory response of cold treatment to create a roller that can relieve muscle tension while reducing inflammation.

When we shot this BOSU video in late 2012, David Weck was still developing his concept of Rotational Movement Training, which uses rhythmic and circular movements to strengthen fascial structures to improve performance. The Weck Method features the use of a newly re-designed BOSU balance trainer, which has a different surface for better grip and includes a series of numbers that represent specific reference points for feet and hand placement. The Weck Method also features a modern version of the Indian club that is extremely useful for enhancing strength of the hands, forearms, shoulders and hips.

The Boxmaster by Star Trac

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