Core Training Trends 2027: What's In, What's Out
The fitness trends shaping 2027 core training: wearables, apps and AI coaching, Pilates and core strength, older adults, strength training and short workouts.
By Ayoub Farid · · 2 min read
Each year the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) surveys fitness professionals worldwide about what they expect to be popular. The 2027 results, published in autumn 2026 from a survey of more than 1,400 professionals, say a lot about where core training is heading.
The headline trends
1. Wearable technology (No. 1)
Smartwatches and fitness trackers top the list again, as they have in the top three every year since 2016. For core training, they're most useful for tracking daily steps and consistency.
2. Mobile exercise apps (No. 2)
Apps climbed two places, which the ACSM linked to demand for accessible, personalized training. AI coaching is part of that story. See AI fitness coach and best ab workout apps.
3. Balance, flow and core strength (No. 3)
Pilates, yoga and barre pushed this category into the top three, with more attention on movement quality and functional performance. See Pilates ab workout.
4. Fitness for older adults (No. 4)
Top five for five years running. Core strength for balance and independence is central. See core exercises for seniors and abs after 40.
Also notable
- Traditional strength training rose two places
- Group fitness jumped six places to No. 7
- Exercise for mental health stayed in the top 10
- Influencer-led programs returned to the list
The ACSM notes that rankings reflect what professionals expect to be popular, not evidence that something works.
What this means for your abs
| Trend | How to use it |
|---|---|
| Wearables | Track steps and streaks, not just workouts |
| Apps and AI coaching | Personalized plans remove decisions; ask questions instead of guessing |
| Core and Pilates | Mix control-focused work with traditional ab training |
| Strength training | Big lifts build a strong core; add short ab sessions |
| Short sessions | 5–15 minutes daily is enough to progress |
What's on the way out
- 1,000-crunch challenges with no progression
- Waist trainers and "belly fat burners"
- Punishing workouts you can't sustain
Where AbBlitz fits
AbBlitz is built around several of these trends at once: an app with a personalized plan, an AI coach, core strength across all four zones, and short daily sessions you can actually keep up.
Frequently asked questions
What is the top fitness trend for 2027?
Wearable technology ranked No. 1 in the ACSM's 2027 survey.
Is core training still popular?
Yes. Balance, flow and core strength ranked No. 3.
Are fitness apps a trend or a fad?
They've been rising for years; mobile apps reached No. 2 in 2027.
Is Pilates good for abs?
Yes, as part of a balanced routine. See Pilates ab workout.