Wondering which fitness class to go for? Our handy guide will help you to pick the right session.
MAY 18th 2018
Which class should I choose?
It's important to mix up your exercise routine, but sometimes the choice of different classes can seem confusing! Here is our guide to the benefits of a few of the 48 different types of fitness class available each week at the Health Club:
Spinning: A spin class is a high intensity cycling workout that generally takes place on a stationary machine with a heavy, weighted flywheel that is linked to the pedals. The handy thing about spin classes is that they allow riders of all abilities to push themselves as much as they like, in the same place. So an Olympic champion can train alongside a complete novice without either placing any impact on the other’s training. Expect to leave sweaty and with heavy legs.
Box Fit: a high intensity workout that burns through a HUGE amount of calories by getting every muscle in the body working, especially the core and the shoulders. Box Fit is a sure way to tone up your body without adding major muscle mass, and although you don't actually hit anyone, it certainly allows you to release some of the tension you might be carrying around with you!
Tabata: A Tabata workout consists of alternating short periods of intense exercise with short periods of rest for a period of 3 to 4 minutes per exercise. A wide variety of exercises are compatible with the Tabata protocol, including resistance exercises such as lifting weights and aerobic exercises such as running or rowing. Tabata gives fast results for those wanting to improve their overall fitness and endurance; a regular, 45 minute class gives great results.
Plyometrics: Plyometric training involves using explosive bodyweight movements to exert maximum force in the shortest amount of time – making them the perfect fat-burning tool. Think anything from single-leg step-ups to incline push-ups; the varied range will target muscles you never even knew you had.
Yoga:an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. The main components of yoga are postures (a series of movements designed to increase strength and flexibility) and breathing. Evidence shows that regular yoga practice has a positive effect on high blood pressure, heart disease, aches and pains – including lower back pain – depression and stress.
Pilates: a form of exercise which concentrates on strengthening the body with an emphasis on core strength. Pilates improves- general fitness and overall well-being, whilst specifically working on muscle tone, posture, flexibility and balance. As it works on your core, Pilates is also well-known for giving you a flat stomach (not that we're shallow).
Booty Barre: a fun, energetic, workout that fuses techniques from dance, Pilates, and Yoga that will tone, define and chisel the whole body. Bootybarre is the perfect combination of strength and flexibility with an added cardiovascular element, utilising the ballet barre. Perfect for those who prefer low impact exercise but don't underestimate the effort that this class demands from your arms, legs and - ahem - booty!
If you're still unsure about which class to try, please speak to any of our Health Coaches: they will be pleased to advise you. Why not try something different next week?