Newspaper or magazine advertisements or articles were cited by 11 percent. Key Trends in Exercise Equipment Treadmills remain the best-selling major item for the home. Cross-trainers could be the next big thing in exercise equipment. Recumbent stationary bikes are increasingly available at lower price points for the home. Weight-resistance machines are being refined to accommodate smaller bodies and permit a greater range of motion.
Abdominal trainers become more effective and comfortable.
More Americans will exercise and Americans will exercise more. Older Americans are expected to be the most important consumers of home exercise equipment. Weight resistance training will continue to grow in importance. Heart-rate training is only beginning to be understood and accepted by exercisers. The importance of stretching may receive increased emphasis.