Canix could be exercise trend of 2013

CANIX might be the new exercise trend of 2013, says one gym owner.

Personal trainer Dan Fivey, from The Gym, Cheltenham, said the new trend in exercise this year could be strapping your dog onto you as you run.

Dropping a dress size and shedding excess weight is often on people's wish list in January.

But now it seems instead of the usual walking of the dog, a new activity is set to be a hit

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Mr Fivey said: "People are trying something new this year. I just read something about Canix, which could be the next big thing.

"It is about running with your dog attached to you using a special belt. I have already seen a few people doing it in the park.

"Some people are trying boxing in my gym as well. They wanted to try something else, like beating the pounds off.

"Some people are just starting to exercise after Christmas and new year, and getting their body moving again.

"It depends what they want and what sort of age group they are in.

"Younger people might want to do pole dancing, but some of my older clients want to do ball room dancing.

"It is all about finding a group that fits."

Working away from traditional gym machines, called free-style exercising, has also been a big hit with fitness fanatics in Cheltenham, according to Fitness First's gym manager Scott Mackenzie.

He said: "We have got about 20-30 per cent of our members who come back in and get into our classes. Some classes like Zumba and body combat are really popular."

He added most gyms had taken on free-style training, which included working out without machines, and using free weights, such as kettle balls.

"Our free style class has come a long way since we started it," said Mr Mackenzie.

"It went from the equipment to the workout. Group exercises really helped people to get interested and they motivate each other."

The gym has started a free-style programme called Free Style 56, which aims to get gym-goers to learn 56 different bodyweight exercises.

Hannah Mansfield, who owns independent healthy smoothie bar, Applebar Juices, in Winchcombe Street, advised weight watchers to switch to fruit and vegetable juices instead of alcoholic drinks and milkshakes.

She said: "We use more vegetables in our juices so that reduces the sugar content in the drink. They still keep people quite full, especially putting protein in their drinks. It's a healthy option."