The fitness industry's ideas about what constitutes a good workout are ever changing. Recent changes and predictions show an emphasis on simplicity and time efficient workouts. Following are a few of the trends you may already see at your health club:

* Mind-body programs such as yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates are already quite popular. These classes are now being mixed with regular classes to combine traditional classes with the main elements of mind-body classes. These fast growing fusion classes take care of both your physical, mental and spiritual selves.

* Balance training continues to grow in popularity. Balance is a key element of the body-mind classes as well as the addition of foam rollers, stability balls and wobble boards into traditional workouts.

* Workouts are getting shorter which means intensity is getting greater. One of the first reasons participants cite not to exercise is lack of time. Long duration, low intensity cardio has been replaced with more effective and shorter interval training. A well designed weight training program is also an effective time saver. Both interval training and weight training produce better fitness and weight loss results than traditional cardio.

* Functional fitness which can be used in everyday life is now stressed over body part isolation training. Functional exercise trains the core muscles and emphasizes working several joints and muscles in one exercise. This better prepares you for daily movements and recreational activities. Multimuscle and multijoint movements are more effective and less timeconsuming than single body part training.

* Employers are stressing fitness and weight loss to improve productivity in the office. Fitter employees mean less absenteeism, lower health and medical expenses, and increased productivity. Many corporations are sponsoring wellness programs which include exercise, nutritional and healthy lifestyle training.

* Small group personal training is on the rise. This is a great way to get good technical instruction more economically.

* Participation in both indoor and outdoor activities is becoming a part of many families lives. It's important for all members of the family to get exercise and for parents to be good fitness role models for their children. Kids fitness programs are flourishing too.

* Many people are viewing exercise as a social avenue. It's a great way to meet new people and to include family and friends in a fit and active lifestyle

Research is always spurning new ideas in the fitness industry. You should never get bored with your fitness options as they are many and ever changing. Most importantly, dare to try new things and find several activities you truly enjoy.

Dr. Lanny Schaffer is an Exercise Physiologist and the President of The International Fitness Academy. For more savvy fitness information go to http://www.aerobics-exercise-coach.com