12 New Workout Classes To Try This Spring
Workout classes are a great way to stay active, have direction and instructions for a workout, meet people, have fun, and learn new ways to stay fit. Trying out new classes is a great way to change up your workout routine and try something new. I personally love pilates and weightlifting and my excitement for those workouts hasn’t faded in four years, but I love trying out new classes to see what’s out there and to recommend to friends who don’t like the forms of exercise I do. Here are 12 new workout classes I think you need to try this spring.
1. Pound
This workout class combines cardio and lightly weighted “drumsticks” called Ripstix. Every class fuses Pilates, isometric movements, and plyometrics with constant simulated drumming to engage your muscles. If you’re not musically inclined, don’t worry because the routines are easy to follow and set to certain songs and the teacher should be helpful for those who are new to the class. You can find it at Crunch gyms, on DVD, and other select gyms.
2. Animal Flow
This workout class was designed by Mike Fitch in partnership with Equinox. Animal Flow taps into your primal instincts to get you moving your body in ways you never have before. The class will take you through lots of bodyweight movements that fuse gymnastics, acrobatics, parkour, capoeira, and breakdancing, all while you’re staying low to the ground and engaging many muscles at once. You can take this class at Equinox gyms and on DVD.
3. Team-Based Workouts
This is a competition based class that relies on you and a team or partner to complete the workouts each class assigned for the day. It’s fun and encouraged teamwork and encouragement throughout the workout. Participants are divided into teams to complete “workouts’ based on games like tag, capture the flag, and flip cup. This is one of those workout classes that is only offered at independent studios, so look up in your area to see if they are offered. I think they’re offered in large cities right now because it’s a fairly new concept that trainers and studios are incorporating into their training.
4. Pole Workouts
I’ve always wanted to take a pole workout class because it looks so graceful, makes you look strong and beautiful. They take a lot of body control, focus, and flexibility, but anyone can do it if they want to. They will enhance flexibility, tone your body, and build strength as well as confidence. Most pole studios also offer other classes like dance, pilates, aerial fitness and so much more. This is a great way to work on flexibility and build strength at the same time. More and more pole studios are popping up in large cities, so look into some near you now!
5. Groove
If you love dance workout classes, this is for you. If dance workout classes are not your thing, this is not for you. Created by Misty Tripoli, Groove is a revolutionary dance workout that combines powerful music with simple moves. Students are encouraged to move freely with the music and just groove out a workout. There is no “wrong” way to groove!
6. Ropes Gone Wild
This class takes you waving a rope up and down, but to the next level by making the ropes weighted. You use every muscle while also taking cardiovascular benefits, improving coordination, and increasing metabolic endurance. You can find this class at select gyms, CrossFit boxes, and on DVD.
7. Barre
I’ve taken two barre classes while at University and have loved them both times. I had a great teacher both classes, and if money wasn’t an issue, I would’ve bought the class pass just for the barre class. Barre is a workout that’s inspired by ballet and focuses on improving balance and core strength while also working on and improving flexibility. It’s a full-body workout that you will feel the next day, and gets your body moving in ways you wouldn’t move it normally. I definitely suggest trying this out. You can find these workout classes at most gyms, independent studios, on DVD, and online.
8. WaveShape
This workout was originally designed for professional surfers and paddleboarders. Founder Adam Rosante saw how effective it was and decided to put it online for people to enjoy for free. It’s a 45-minute, equipment-free workout that draws on the movements of surfing and other board sports to build explosive strength, endurance, balance, and flexibility. You can find this class online and on DVD.
9. BodyArt Training
This is one of those fusion workout classes that combined dance and therapy. The creator, Robert Steinbacher, realized that many therapeutic exercises could be just as beneficial for people without physical limitations. It integrates functional training, physiotherapy, dance, tai chi, and yoga for a tough and refreshing workout. You can find classes at Equinox clubs, select gyms, and on DVD.
10. Katami 4×4
This is a DVD only program from Paul Katami that’s based on one-minute burst intervals. You repeat the reps of each move for one minute, take 30 seconds of active recovery, then repeat four times. It’s fast-paced, you can get it done quickly if time is a concern, and you can do it in the comfort of your own home since it’s only available on DVD.
11. Rowing
I think rowing classes are rising in popularity and accessibility as people are being exposed to it. It’s a full-body workout that, when done correctly, hits about 85% of your muscles. It’s also a low impact so people of any age can pick it up safely, as long as they consult with their primary care provider or physician before trying it out. You can find it at gyms, independent studios, and some CrossFit boxes.
12. Bokwa
This dance class workout class is based on the alphabet. You draw all the letters with your feet while performing a cardio routine that will get the blood flowing and calories burning. It’s a nontraditional class where the participants can make up their own dance moves that go along with the beat of the music as long as they spell out the letters of the alphabet with their feet as they go along. You can find it at NYSC, other select gyms, and independent studios.
