Budget-friendly, time-efficient workouts hot for '09, experts say

Out: Pricey club memberships. In: DVDs.

Out: Hour-long workouts. In: Half-hour.

Out: Boring routines. In: The Wii.

2009 is all about budget-friendly, time-efficient and fun workouts, according to fitness experts. Here are their predictions for how we'll be getting in shape in the new year.

The trend: Small dance studios

From Tamilee Webb, known for "Buns & Abs of Steel"

Webb predicts group fitness classes will move out of mega health clubs and back into smaller studios, as in the '80s when aerobic dance took off.

"In the olden days, it was an exercise group studio, you'd run in, know most of the women, and run out," says Webb, who teaches at a big health club. "In a big club environment, it is a different energy and vibration."

She said many of her students ignore the club's other amenities and would prefer something smaller, simpler and cheaper.

So while most of the smaller studios are for yoga and Pilates, she sees more classes in aerobic dance, toning and even circuit training being offered in similar places.

The trend: Fitness boot camp

From the American Council of Exercise Top Fitness Trends for 2009.

This military-style workout doesn't seem to be going away. This is the third time boot camp has been on the ACE's Top Fitness Trends List, according to chief science officer Cedric Bryant.

Boot camps offer a "change of pace from the traditional workout experience," Bryant said. He said the workouts, which incorporate moves like lunges, push-ups and squats, also challenge people in a way that's empowering.

But results also have a lot to do with it. Boot camps are time-efficient and effective, he said. And of course, he adds, some credit goes to the marketing. There are fitness boot camps for prom, high school reunions, weddings and singles.

The trend: Ballroom dancing

From Jeanette Jenkins, "Jeanette Jenkins Hollywood Trainer — Sexy Arms, Abs & Legs" DVD

Thanks to "Dancing with the Stars," there's going to be more interest in ballroom dancing, Jenkins says. In the past, people were more apt to find hip-hop and Brazilian dance in their fitness centers, she said.