What's Trending in Training

It's time for America to put down its Big Mac and hit the gym. Being in shape is in style, and it's looking like the fitness fad is here to stay. Restaurant menus list healthy dishes and lower calorie counts, while new workout classes like CrossFit and SoulCycle are crowded with loyal members. The exercise craze is good news for the promotional products industry because it means a growing demand for exercise goods. Fitness lovers can stroll through the park with pedometers that announce their progress, stay sweat-free at the gym with microfiber terry towels, or safely bike at night wearing L.E.D. reflectors. In case you need a few tips for selling exercise products, here is a review of what's hot and what's not in the world of workouts.

DESIGN WITH PORTABLE IN MIND
"On-the-go fitness products are must-have items this year," said Kim Collins, director of marketing for Crown Products in Mobile, Ala. Modern fitness enthusiasts have busy schedules and hectic lifestyles, so products such as shaker bottles and duffel bags are popular because people can travel straight to the gym from their homes or offices. Collins described how Crown Products' selection lends itself to busy gym-goers. "Our Yoga Mats feature a convenient carry strap, our Shake It Up bottle easily fits into a car cup holder and our Get Fit Duffel is perfect to take from the office to Zumba or a traditional gym workout," she said.

For some though, it's often impossible to squeeze in a daily gym session. Andrea Reid, promotional market sales manager for Ad Bands, Hot Springs, Ark., suggested a way for frequent travelers too busy for the gym to still exercise regularly. According to Reid, resistance exercise is an ideal way for jetsetters to stay fit and works for low to high impact workouts. "Travel makes it difficult to keep up a regular exercise schedule, but our Work-Out Bands are portable and lightweight so that they can be thrown into your suitcase or carried in a purse or briefcase," she said. These bands can be used to stretch and tone muscles through a variety of exercises while showcasing an imprint.