Getting to the gym can be challenging on the best of days. Trying a new type of workout class can switch up your routine to make getting to the gym even easier! Check out our list of different types of workouts to inspire you to try something new.
Spin/Indoor Cycling
Indoor cycling, or spin classes, are a great way to get up your heart rate while enjoying a unique experience. Spin classes are a high intensity workout that take place on a stationary bike. It is common for spin studios to feature high energy music to compliment the intense workout. There are many benefits to spin: it’s a low impact exercise that burns a lot of calories, and there’s an opportunity to build a supportive community. It also offers the ability to make each class your own by adjusting the flywheel to your individual level – so don’t be afraid! Even fitness beginners are ready for this challenge.
Learn more about Spin here and here!
Barre
Barre is another great alternative to your typical gym session. Barre is a workout class that combines ballet inspired moves with elements of Pilates, dance, yoga, and strength training. The class uses a ballet barre and focuses on strengthening your core and toning your glutes using high reps of small range movements. This is a full body, low impact workout that can also be modified to get your heart rate up!
Learn more about Barre here!
Kickboxing
Kickboxing is a form of martial arts derived from karate that uses hands and feet as points of contact. Classes generally include strength training, cardio, and high-intensity interval contact. Kickboxing is a great way to work up a sweat while having fun!
Learn more about Kickboxing here!
Zumba
If you love dancing and up-beat music, try Zumba! Zumba is a workout class that combines Latin and international music with dance moves to work up a sweat. Joining this workout class with your friends would only add to the fun. If there is no Zumba studio near you, many gyms offer this type of workout as well.
Learn more about Zumba here!
Bootcamp with a local trainer
Joining a local bootcamp is another great way to complete a workout while learning new techniques. A fitness bootcamp is a group activity program designed to build strength and fitness through a variety of exercises, but don’t worry, it’s not quite the military-style bootcamp you have in mind. Joining a group with a friendly instructor and other individuals who have similar goals can help to motivate you. Bootcamps are often put on by gyms, or individual personal trainers will sometimes host them!
Instructor-led treadmill class
Looking to switch up your regular treadmill routine? Try an instructor lead class! These types of classes generally combine treadmill work with music. If you are looking to add HIIT (high-intensity interval training) to your workout, this is a great way to introduce it.
Learn more about treadmill classes here!
Rowing
Another workout class growing in popularity is instructor lead rowing! Using an indoor rowing machine, this full body workout focuses on cardio and aerobic conditioning. This is another great class to complete in a group, with the potential to build a community with your fellow rowers! This is a great class to try in the winter when rowing on a lake or river is not an option. Classes that include HIIT-style workouts are also growing in popularity.
Learn more about Rowing here!
Aerial fitness
A fun way to work up a sweat is to complete a workout class a few feet off the ground! There are several variations of these classes, so there is bound to be one you would be willing to try. Different classes include antigravity yoga and aerial fitness work using hammocks, silks, and hoops.
Learn more about Aerial Fitness here!
Pilates
Pilates is a type of exercise class that focuses on core strength, flexibility, and awareness. The 6 guiding principles of Pilates include centering, control, flow, breath, precision, and concentration. There are several methods to Pilates classes, which include mat work or machines that use springs/body weight to create resistance.
Learn more about Pilates here!
Hot Yoga
Many people already enjoy yoga classes as a part of their fitness routine. Switching up your favourite class with hot yoga could be a fun way to try something new! Hot yoga classes are similar to other types of Yoga, but they incorporate heated rooms with a temperature generally between 85 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps to keep your muscles warm and more flexible. This would especially be great on a cold winter day!
Learn more about Hot Yoga here!
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