Physical activity is one of the most beneficial and healthy things that you can do for yourself. It not only strengthens your body (muscles, bones, joints, and much more) but also your mental and emotional health.
However, not everyone can feel motivated enough to simply hit the gym and lift free weights or sit on old, worn machines. For those who feel this way, there is indeed a saving grace for you: group exercise classes.
There are a plethora of such classes available nowadays, so let’s look at just seven group exercise classes that are exceptionally popular, proven to be advantageous, and that you should try!
1. Indoor Rock Climbing
If you are looking to build muscles and lose weight, rock climbing is one of the best options out there. It effectively enhances your endurance, provides you with cardiovascular exercise, and strengthens nearly every muscle in your body: hands, arms, shoulders, back, legs, glutes, abs, obliques, and so on.
Fortunately, you don’t always have to do it outdoors though as there are plenty of indoor rock climbing venues! You can opt for private lessons or choose indoor rock climbing group exercise classes (and if you’re in or near Philadelphia, we highly recommend you check out Reach Climbing & Fitness!).
2. Yoga
Yoga is a traditional method of building physical and mental strength that dates back centuries– nearly 5,000 years in fact! It assists people with attaining mental clarity but also is an excellent tool for toning muscles (especially in your arms, shoulders, legs, and core) and improving your flexibility. You can even lose weight if you practice more intense yoga, such as ashtanga and power yoga.
3. Pilates
Pilates was invented around 80 years ago and has since captivated countless exercise enthusiasts. It is a low-impact exercise that uses some common yoga poses and other moves. Many people often get these two confused, but one key difference is that yoga can assist in flexibility while pilates is more ideal for both relaxing and strengthening muscles.
4. Cycling
If you’re looking for a real heart-pumping exercise, look no further than a cycling class. Cycling both stimulates and improves your cardiovascular performance while also helping you tone muscles and burn fat. Plus, most cycling group classes incorporate fun music! On top of all that, the camaraderie between cyclists is second to none.
5. HIIT Programs
Speaking of getting your heart moving and fat burning, we have to mention HIIT programs. HIIT, which stands for high-intensity interval training, is a challenging total body exercise that boosts your cardio and muscle building and/or leaning. They typically incorporate fast, yet intense body movements with intermittent short breaks. It’s one exercise that is truly rewarding– especially with others huffing and puffing right by your side!
6. Dance Fitness (Zumba Anyone?)
Looking to get your dance on while getting in a great workout? Then you should really consider dance fitness classes! One of the most popular options for this type of exercise is Zumba, which is a fitness program that plays various types of music (usually Latin and other international music). It is an effective cardio workout that has a healthy balance of slow and fast rhythms.
7. Rowing
Row, row, row your boat gently down the… gym? Well, sort of. Using stationary rowing machines, you don’t need to row down a stream or river to get an incredible workout. Rowing has long been known to be an extremely effective workout as it builds aerobic endurance and muscle strength!
Are you in the Philadelphia area and looking for a new, fun, and effective workout? Then you should consider the indoor rock climbing and other programs offered at Reach Climbing & Fitness! Browse their numerous group exercise classes and other offerings to find the perfect one for you!
