Here's what the ACE says are trends to watch:

Obesity awareness: Losing weight will continue to be the primary reason consumers seek personal training support as the public responds to the expanded messaging      concerning the dangers of physical inactivity and obesity. The Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index report that showed a modest improvement in the nation's obesity rates for the first time in more than three years is a very encouraging sign, the ACE says. But the fact remains that three out of five Americans are still overweight or obese requiring more work to be done.

Whole-life training: Lifestyle coaching will become a bigger trend with more personal trainers looking to holistically improve client lifestyle and expanding their education and training to include this skill set. Additionally, fitness facilities will hire nutritionists and other allied health care professionals such as physical therapists and psychologists to serve the expanding needs of their health-conscious members including wellness, nutrition and stress management programs.

Behavior modification: While great strides have been made in health education, the average consumer still believes the best way to lose weight is by following a restrictive or fad diet. But fitness professionals will help prepare consumers to better understand that there is no quick fix to getting lasting results. There needs to be enhanced goal setting, motivation, adherence and rapport in accordance with educational campaigns and programs.

Community collaboration: Access to fitness services and education will continue to expand in local communities including activities in gyms, parks and recreation centers. Local leaders are taking a more active role to address health issues in their communities, including proactive measures through school-based education programs and engagement with low-income and at-risk families.

Influence of technology: Technology is starting to play a role in complementing in person fitness services by providing additional motivational support. In the coming year, social media and mobile-based apps will continue to revolutionize the industry with fitness organizations creating more interactive and online-based programs and classes. Additionally, personal trainers will have more flexibility than ever before to provide one-on-one or small group fitness instruction to consumers anytime and anywhere in the world.

Senior and youth specialties: Aquatic fitness and group fitness classes will be the most popular forms of exercise for older adults. And with First Lady Michelle Obama advocating for active children, expect to see more physical fitness in schools, youth-based classes at fitness centers and families who work out or participate in outdoor activities together.

Advanced professional education: Fitness professionals will place increased emphasis on continuing education as an integral action item in further developing their fitness training knowledge, skills and abilities. Fitness and health clubs will continue to recognize the importance of hiring skilled employees who hold NCAA-accredited fitness credentials.

Workplace support: Due in part to several years of declining economic conditions for business owners, employers will look to outsource wellness programs to local fitness facilities and health clubs that can provide total health management while seeking out employee discounts and reduced membership fees to increase access for workers.

Popular Workouts: Expect zumba, boot camp-style workouts, TRX Suspension training and interval training to be popular workout trends along with balance and core training becoming more prevalent in 2012.