If you want to spice up your exercise routine, group fitness classes are a great way to learn new moves and stay motivated to meet your goals. Look for classes at a nearby gym, recreational center or boutique fitness studio.
Do your research before you go: make sure your class is led by a trainer with appropriate certifications and learn which equipment (if any) you will need to bring with you.
- Boot camp classes combine traditional calisthenics (e.g., pushups, crunches and jumping jacks) with body weight exercises and interval training for fast results. Many boot camp sessions are led outdoors, so this is a good option if you are not a fan of the gym.
- Fitness DVDs. Skip the gym altogether and squeeze in a sweat session in your living room. Choose from a variety of workout methods, from Pilates to kickboxing to weight training.
- Water fitness involves more than swimming laps. Deep water running, flexibility training, water aerobics, water walking and water yoga are just some of the different ways to exercise in the pool. If you don't have a pool of your own, many health clubs have aquatics centers onsite.
- Ballet “barre” workouts. Barre classes combine isometrics and dance conditioning to tone the body and increase strength. Try a class at a boutique studio, gym or on a DVD.
- Zumba or other dance classes. Dance-fitness routines are an excellent, blood-pumping alternative to your typical treadmill cardio routine. Check your gym schedule for classes or try a DVD at home.
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