An Exercise in Innovation

Have you already given up on your New Year's resolution to get in better shape? Maybe you just need an innovative, new fitness class to keep you going.

There are a bunch of new programs and businesses that are picking up on the latest fitness trends, which include dance inspired programs fueled by the infatuation with television programs like Dancing with the Stars, and programs that focus just on kids.

I enjoy Zumba, which is actually about ten years old, but has been getting a lot of attention lately. It is a fun and easy fitness class set to the latin music like salsa and merengue. The founders have been very entrepreneurial, licensing the program to individual instructors and fitness centers around the world. They have created DVDs and even their own line of clothing. I hope someone licenses the program in this area soon!

Another dance inspired program is Pure Barre, started by dancer Carrie Rezabek, when she was in her mid 20s. After developing and teaching the program, which as the name implies, uses a ballet barre, she began licensing it in other geographic areas. This program is also now available on DVD.

Do you have your own idea for a fitness business? Entrepreneur Magazine has an article this month on how others got started in the fitness industry. The Foster Student Innovation Center has the current and several back issues of the magazine for you to come by and read any time!