6 interesting fitness classes you probably haven't tried yet but should

6 interesting fitness classes you probably haven't tried yet but should

Try these 6 workouts to mix up your routine

Attend a group fitness class to make your exercise routine interesting, challenging and fun. You get the best of both worlds - fun training with the structure and guidance a qualified instructor needs. There are so many options for group classes now. Choose from aerial yoga and rebounding, underwater spinning, cardio circuits, Pilates reformer classes and more.

In most gyms you will usually find a fairly comprehensive schedule. Fitness has evolved so much that most gyms have a wide variety of classes. If you can't find what you're looking for at your gym, there are also great group classes at smaller studios and boutique fitness centers that might also be worth checking out. We also offer some of the following courses on our fitness vacation, which offer variety in the daily schedule. If you're looking for something different and feel like you need to change up your normal lineup, check out these courses.

HULA HOOPING CLASS

You probably thought hula hooping was either a thing of the past or something you didn't do until you were a kid. Think again! Hula hooping classes have become a fantastic way to move your body in a completely different way. When you listen to music, move to your teacher's choreography.

Fitness hoops are usually weighted, which gives you a little resistance and makes this class more difficult than regular hoops you might have done years ago. You need to stabilize yourself to maintain control and balance while increasing your heart rate!

According to the American Council On Exercise, you can burn up to 600 calories per hour with this full-body workout. You will also improve flexibility and balance. We strengthen the muscles in the back, stomach, arms and legs. Some gyms even mix in other classes like Pilates and yoga.

SLIDE

Sliding discs make every workout more difficult. Generally, sliding discs are placed under hands or feet, depending on the movement, increasing intensity in a non-impact manner. You need to put in more effort to maintain balance, stability and control while performing movements like lunges, squats, skaters, plank moves, mountain climbers, shuffles and more. Sounds like fun?

You can try sliding at a local gym or studio. Some classes slide all – 50 minutes of upper body, lower body and core work. Some studios may also incorporate sliding like hula into other fitness classes to mix things up. In any case, the movements are fun and effective. Pro tip: If you're sliding at home, you can always use paper plates on carpet or towels on hardwood floors. However, be careful not to slip. Test out a few moves before embarking on a full workout.

BODY WEIGHT TABATA

Body Weight Tabata is one of our guests' favorite classes on the retreat. This course can be done anywhere, but we do it on the beach so the views and atmosphere make it a whole different ball game. This fitness class is a challenge! Most of the moves are moves that many people have done before - push-ups, planks, dips, squats, lunges, power jacks, forearm rises, quick feet, and more. Doesn't sound complicated or difficult, does it? However, it's the format and pace that changes everything for this workout.

If you're not familiar with Tabata, the format is 20 seconds of intense work followed by 10 seconds of rest 8 times. For example, we would do 20 second pushups x 10 second rest 8 times, which is approximately 4 minutes. 20 seconds of work may not sound like a lot, but repeating it over and over again puts a really great strain on the muscles. You're sure to feel the burn with this workout!

Don't worry, you don't have to go on a fitness vacation with us to try this class. There are many gyms and studios that offer it too. Look for Tabata or a HIIT class that uses only body weight.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE

This recovery class focuses on releasing tight muscles and connective tissue. Generally, we do so much toning and strengthening and not enough of the recovery work to keep our muscles and fascia relaxed and balanced. Some stretch classes fuse myofascial release with them. Other classes may focus solely on deep release or foam rolling.

According to Yoga Medicine, the term myofascial release refers to any technique that works on the muscles and fascia. There are many different modalities; However, the most common self-myofascial release (SMFR) techniques usually involve the use of balls or foam rollers. The beauty of SMFR is that it can be done with simple tools and training. That said, it is a very accessible tool.

You will most likely see a mix of group classes and/or private sessions when it comes to this type of recovery work. In any case, it is important as part of a balanced fitness routine. It's also important to do it right. Although you can do this at home, I would highly recommend taking at least one class or session from a professional to learn proper technique.

AERIAL YOGA OR AERIAL SILKS

Depending on the fitness center and/or class, this may be called Aerial Yoga or Aerial Silks. Definitely get ready for a completely different yoga experience! These classes are basically a combination of yoga and acrobatics. You explore asanas from a supportive material (like a hammock) that hangs from the ceiling. This support gives you less joint compression during certain inversions and better range of motion for other poses like hip opening pigeon.

This may sound difficult, but it's not as crazy as it is on paper. You do not need any previous experience, but you must inform the instructor that it is your first time. Even though you are using material that hangs from the ceiling, your feet can touch the floor. When you practice this type of yoga, you have the opportunity to improve your strength and flexibility. We all need a little of this!

EQUIPMENT BALANCE TRAINING

An entire class dedicated to balance training? Yes! Channel your inner gymnast – OK, not really, but get ready to improve your balance and coordination. Balance training is great for everyone. It is something we practice consistently on the retreat. What makes these types of classes fun for people is the inclusion of different pieces of equipment.

For example, we use small stability discs, larger balancing aids like the Bosu, and even balancing tools similar to a balance beam to strengthen feet and ankles, challenge balance, and refine the mind-body connection. It makes the class challenging and fun at the same time. Many of the moves require focus and concentration, making this class a completely different experience. It's hard and challenging, but it goes by quickly because you have to really think about what you're doing.

Check your local gym for balance classes. Again, you may see fusion classes that contain a combination of Balance and Strength or Balance and Core. So keep an eye out for creative names and read descriptions.

INCREASE YOUR FITNESS

Have fun with fitness! Try new workouts to keep your mind and body in the game. Change is always good and it's fun to mix it up with interesting workouts. Maybe you'll find a new favorite fitness class! If you are unsure about the classes and their implications, ask a staff member to help you better understand what you may be getting into.

Have fun trying it out. Don't be discouraged if you have a bit of difficulty in this first class. It's normal! Give yourself a break and learn a new activity. Most instructors offer modifications, but are welcome to use them if you feel uncomfortable or unsure about an exercise.

If you're not sure where to start or where to look for classes, check out the Class Pass. It's a great way to try out a range of different classes and studios in your area.

Inspired by Ezine and Margot Rutigliano