11 Unique Fitness Classes to Get Active

By Kaitlin Bitz Candelaria | November 2, 2016
fitness classesMaybe CrossFit or the globo-gym just isn’t for you. Maybe you need something a little off the beaten path to get interested in staying active.

Luckily for you, fitness is a huge trend right now, meaning there are dozens of different types of fitness classes to choose from. Whether you enjoy dancing like a ballerina or working on your Muhammad Ali impression, there are fitness classes with options for you and yours.

Cost, class time and availability will vary from city to city, but these are some of our favorite new trendy ways to get in shape.

11 Unique Fitness Classes to Get Active

1. Barre Classes

Perhaps you’ve heard of Pure Barre, one of many different fitness centers/workout classes designed around the barre concept. The barre concept incorporates themes from ballet, with the main piece of equipment being a ballet barre — duh!

Barre classes were developed by German ballerina Lotte Berk in the late 1950s. Barre classes tend to focus on isolating muscle groups, building strength and improving flexibility and tend to be very low-impact. Although classes can be a little costly, many places offer monthly memberships. In addition, there is little to no equipment required for barre classes since most of the work involves utilizing your body weight.

2. OrangeTheory

OrangeTheory combines elements of strength training and HIIT training to create a fun cardi-WOAH experience.

Not only will you get your heart pumping by taking classes at OrangeTheory, which incorporates machinery such as treadmills and rowers, but you’ll also be able to record and analyze your body’s outputs during and after your workout.

You can read more about FitnessHQ writer Nicole’s OrangeTheory class experience here.

3. Aerial Yoga

Do you like yoga and heights? What about seeming really graceful when in reality you’re fighting off pain from rope burn? Either way, aerial yoga classes are a fun way to incorporate some exercise into your routine.

Aerial yoga combines elements of traditional yoga with acrobatics. Athletes use “silks”, or large swaths of fabric hanging from the ceiling, to contort themselves, build strength, build flexibility and work on controlled breathing.

4. Daybreaker Parties

Sometimes, you just need to start your day off with some dancing. This is exactly the concept behind Daybreaker Parties, which incorporate lots of fun elements like music, dancing and community — all before your morning coffee!

5. Spin Classes

Spin classes are a great way to get your cardio in. Spinning, or cycling depending on who you ask, is low-impact and classes can be done in or outdoors. Depending on where you live, you can also find spinning classes with fun and trendy themes such as a Beyonce spin class.

If classes aren’t really your thing, but you’re still interested in spinning, check out FitnessHQ writer Nicole’s 45-minute at-home spin workout.

7. MMA and Kickboxing

MMA and kickboxing classes are pretty popular these days. If you’re looking for a little bit of a violence and a whole lot of cardio, these classes are perfect.

Be prepared — boxing and kickboxing aren’t as easy as badass Ronda Rousey makes them look. In fact, the conditioning that goes into being a well-rounded fighter would surprise you. Don’t say we didn’t warn you! However, don’t let the work daunt you — these classes are a lot of fun and serve as an awesome stress reliever!

8. Underwater Cycling

As if spinning wasn’t enough of a workout for your lower half, now people have started underwater cycling — crazy right? However, there may be a method to the madness. Not only is underwater cycling a cool new way to get some exercise in, but there is also some evidence that it may be better for people who are struggling with arthritis or other injuries that make exercise difficult.

9. Rock Climbing and Bouldering

Are you an adventurer? Or maybe you like the idea of adventuring, but prefer to do it without all the bugs and…ya know, sunlight and stuff. Rock climbing and bouldering are both very trendy right now, with many cities offering indoor rock climbing facilities and — you guessed it — rock climbing classes. Check out your area for facilities that help you get your climb on and get ready to build some serious shoulder and back strength.

10. Paddleboard Yoga

Want a core workout for the record books? Check out paddleboard yoga. One thing is for sure — you’ll either improve your balance or you’ll get very wet trying. Either way, paddleboard yoga is fun and relaxing…as long as you can stay up!

11. Trampoline Classes

Throw it back to childhood with trampoline fitness classes. I mean really, what sounds more fun than torching calories while jumping around like a maniac?

Many indoor trampoline facilities offer different fitness classes and programs utilizing bouncy-bounce technology to help you get in shape while having a blast.

12. Mobility Subscriptions

Maybe you’re just not a class person, but would still love something to help you become a more well-rounded and fit individual. There are many mobility programs such as ROMWOD and MobilityWOD that can be done at home. Although these programs are designed as supplemental program for athletes, there’s nothing wrong with relying on them to help you get your foot in the door when it comes to fitness. Now, everyone say Fragon!

 

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