We don’t always like it, it’s hard to find time to do it and experts always say we need to do more of it. For many of us, meeting our exercise goals can be a challenge. (Life has a habit of getting in the way, right?) Sometimes experts have to emphasize the basics, and sometimes they have to find creative ways to tackle tough health issues.

So what can we expect to see in 2012? Every year since 2006, the editors at the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)’s Health & Fitness Journal poll fitness professionals around the world to see which trends they think will be important for 2012. This year, a total of 2,620 professionals across clinical, corporate, community and commercial sectors took part in the online survey. Participants were asked to rate 37 trends on a scale of 1-10 based their predicted importance for the coming year. The results were then used to rank each trend.

Some of the items won’t surprise you — after all, one of the goals of the survey is to see which trends have staying power and which ones turn out to be more of a fad instead.

Here’s a look as the ACSM’s Top 10 Fitness Trends for 2012:

1. Educated, Certified, and Experienced Fitness Professionals
For the fifth year in a row, educated and certified fitness professionals top the survey results, largely thanks to a growth in certification programs in North America. If you think this rank is a little self-serving — it was a survey of fitness professionals, after all — one of the driving forces behind this trend is today’s competitive job market. Without the right experience and qualifications, it can be tough to get a job.

However, consumers will benefit too — watch for more qualified instructors at health clubs and recreational facilities.

2. Strength training
No, it’s not just for body builders and professional athletes! Experts have long considered strength training a key component of a balanced fitness routine. It isn’t just about appearances: these exercises are essential for helping to retain muscle tone and bone mass, not to mention staying active and independent as we age. Strength training continues to be the focus of fitness programs for all ages — including rehabilitation and strategies to manage chronic disease.

3. Fitness programs for older adults
Once again, experts predict that fitness programs for people over age 50 will continue to grow throughout 2012. That means more programs designed for baby boomers and seniors — all with wellness in mind. Even retirement residents and long-term care facilities will also be benefiting with activities tailored to residents’ abilities.

From a practical standpoint, it makes sense for programs and health clubs to tap into this often under-served demographic. After all, baby boomers and seniors make up a significant part of the population, and they generally have more free time and more disposable income than younger generations.