In an interesting shift of trends, South Africa’s Gen Z are stepping away from traditional cardiovascular exercises and moving towards strength training workouts. This new trend is changing the face of fitness in South Africa, manifesting itself in booming gym memberships and an increasing demand for personal trainers.
The Rising Popularity of Strength Training
Strength training, which includes exercises such as deadlifts, squats, and bench presses, has gained a significant footing among the younger generation. The focus of these workouts is more on building muscle strength and endurance than on improving cardiovascular health, which has traditionally been the focus of most exercise regimes.
Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, a GP, personal trainer, and triathlete, notes that there’s now “an enormous ecosystem” for those who are already active. This ecosystem includes gyms, running clubs, fitness apps, and social media platforms that support and promote a more active lifestyle.
Why the Shift?
The shift from cardio to strength training can be attributed to a number of factors. For one, strength training is often seen as more engaging and challenging, offering a variety of exercises that keep workouts fresh and exciting.
Another factor is the rise of social media, where fitness influencers often showcase their strength training routines. This has not only made the workout more popular but has also helped demystify it, showing followers that it’s possible to lift weights without becoming overly muscular.
The Impact on Health
While cardio exercises are known to improve heart health, strength training offers its own host of benefits. It helps in building muscle mass, which in turn aids in maintaining a healthy body weight. Moreover, it can improve bone health, boost metabolism, and even help manage chronic conditions like arthritis and heart disease.
However, like any exercise regime, it’s essential to balance strength training with a healthy diet and adequate rest. Overdoing it or not eating enough to fuel the body can lead to injuries and other health issues.
As South Africa’s Gen Z continue to embrace strength training, it’s clear a new fitness trend is emerging. This shift from cardio to strength training may well be a game-changer in the country’s fitness scene.
Source: BBC News
