High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is predicted to be the leading exercise trend next year, taking top spot from wearable technology, according to the latest survey in the US.

The training method returns to the number one position after four years, says the American College of Sports Medicine in its Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2018.

Group training, wearable technology, body weight training and strength training completed the top five.

The survey found that clinical populations in medical fitness centres want to use HIIT with their patients but would substitute high-intensity with moderate-intensity.

“Despite the warnings by some fitness professionals of potentially increased injury rates using HIIT, this form of exercise has been popular in gyms all over the world,” the report said.

The survey, now in its 12th year, was completed by 4,100 respondents worldwide, its largest sample to date. Forty potential trends were given as choices, with the 20 most popular ranked and published.

Trends that dropped out of the top 20 this year included worksite health promotion, smartphone exercise apps and outcome measures.

Other trends that did not make the top 20 included boot camps, indoor cycling, pilates, and children's exercise for the treatment and prevention of obesity.

To view the full report, click here.