Health tech, 24-hour gyms, small classes and outside workouts combine to keep Melbourne fit

It’s the start of a new year and you’ve resolved to get fit, lose weight and eat better. But then life gets in the way. Luckily, there’s no shortage of new ways to help jump-start your health kick and keep it going.

Wearable health technologies, 24-hour gyms, smaller fitness classes and outside workouts will keep Melburnians fit this year.

Improving fitness, losing weight and eating better are the most common goals for Victorians jumping into 2019.

But sticking to those goals won’t be easy, according to a social demographer who said Australians were juggling more than ever.

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Mark McCrindle said the industry was responding by giving the power to the people with technologies such as Apple Watches and Fitbits.

“It’s not only now monitoring steps per day but it’s monitoring sleep patterns, general mobility and heart rate,” he said.

Working out in the great outdoors was also a growing trend, he said.

“People are looking to make exercise fun and enjoyable,” Mr McCrindle said.

“We’ve got the right climate and environment.”

Body Fit Training owner Matt Thomas, Anita Schmidt, Golsa Adabi and owner Daniel Stewart working out at the studio. Picture: Nicki Connolly

He also said there were more different kinds of gyms popping up, from smaller group classes such as Cross Fit and F45 to 24-hour gyms.

“There are more local gyms popping up all over the place,” he said.

“Geographical saturation has been a wider trend.

“There is no excuse.”

One of these new smaller types of gyms is Body Fit Training, a franchise that ­offers only group classes.

South Yarra and Richmond branch owner Daniel Stewart, 30, said it was the local community feel that kept his clients coming back.

“People want the community,” he said.

“They just feel loved when they are there. And you’re getting a workout in.”

Daniel Stewart with one of the wearable trackable devices now in vogue. Picture: Nicki Connolly

Mr Stewart said he believed his gym and others like it hit the sweet spot between costly personal training and solo gym sessions.

“With group training, you’re still going to get a really good workout but it still is personalised at some point,” he said.

“You don’t have to motivate yourself.”

Staying motivated can be a big hurdle for many in achieving their fitness goals.

While almost a third of Victorians stated their top goal for the year was to improve their health and fitness, ­finder.com data shows many give up ­before reaching the three-month mark.

Finder.com spokeswoman Bessie Hassan said people were often over ambitious in their goals and should make sure they know how to track them.

“Put your goals on social media and share your plans with your family and friends,” she said.

“It makes you accountable.

“A new year is the perfect excuse for a fresh start.”

Teagan Dinardo and Chloe Symes go for a jog. Picture: Ian Currie

Teagan Dinardo, 28, of Kew, enjoys working out in a group and outside.

“Classes help me a lot,” she said.

“It is a great way to meet new people.

“I enjoy an evening walk with my husband after dinner during daylight savings.”

HOW TO STICK WITH YOUR RESOLUTIONS

1. Use fitness and goals apps to track your resolutions.

2. Write goals on social media so your friends and family can encourage you and keep you accountable.

3. Start slow with smaller goals and work your way up.

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