A report into the trends in personal fitness training by IDEA Health and Fitness has revealed that one-to-one training and small group exercise are the most popular forms of exercise among gym members.

IDEA Health & Fitness Association, the worldwide membership organisation for exercise professionals, has published the results of its 2009 IDEA Personal Training Fitness Programs & Equipment Trends Report.

The research asked personal trainers and exercise professionals to list current trends and innovations.

The survey shows that one-to-one personal training is still the most popular fitness trend with 98 per cent of respondents reporting that they offer it to their clientele. More than 53 per cent believe one-on-one training is stable while a third (33 per cent) believe there is still potential for growth in the industry.

Small group personal training - sessions involving between three and five clients - is offered by more than half of the respondents (58 per cent), with 46 per cent believing the practice will become more popular.

The survey also revealed that an increasing amount of exercise professionals now come to contact with clientele who need specialised instruction due to health reasons. These include chronic injuries and medical conditions, such as diabetes and coronary heart disease.

IDEA Health and Fitness Association is the world's leading membership organisation of fitness and wellness professionals, with around 23,000 members in more than 80 countries.

Kathie Davis, executive director of IDEA, said: "It's clear that personal training is still king of the hill in the fitness industry. Whether in an entrepreneurial or a facility setting, personal trainers are steadily filling sessions as a growing variety of clients are inspired to fitness and wellness through personal training leadership.

"IDEA personal trainers are among the best educated and qualified to handle the diverse populations of consumers seeking professional assistance."