Exercise Class Finder: Our Staff Weighs in on the Current Trends Sweeping the Country

According to the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, you need to do two types of physical activity each week to improve your health: aerobic and muscle-strengthening. Adults need at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as brisk walking or jogging every week as well as muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days that work all major muscle groups including legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms. Sounds easy right? Not so for many of us who are always on the go and have trouble finding time just to relax! The best way to fit something into your schedule is to find something you find fun and exciting! With SO many new and ever-evolving fads and workouts out there, it is hard to choose one we may like and figure out which ones actually work. This week we have picked out 4 current trends sweeping the nation that will hopefully inspire you and get you moving and in shape!

Rachel’s Pick…ZUMBA: “Ditch the workout, join the party!” as Zumba creators say. Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance-fitness program. Not a dancer? Not a problem! The steps are easy-to-follow and often repeat to give you time to learn them. The instructors are enthusiastic, the music is upbeat and classes are fun. The best part about Zumba is that you won’t feel like you are working out. There are eight types of Zumba classes, so you can find the one that best suits you. For example, those with joint pain may want to try Aqua Zumba. If you want to join the party, classes can be found in Zumba participating gyms or on DVD.

Carolyn’s Pick…CROSSFIT: Crossfit is another new phenomenon sweeping the country boasting their workouts as “constantly varied, high intensity, functional movement”. While this workout is the principal training program for many police academies and military operations, the company assures new clients that anyone can do it, even the elderly. Workouts are typically short—20 minutes or less—and intense, demanding all-out physical exertion. They combine movements such as sprinting, rowing, jumping rope, climbing rope, weightlifting, and carrying odd objects, and use barbells, dumbbells, gymnastics rings, pull-up bars, kettle bells, medicine balls, and many bodyweight exercises. With around 3,400 facilities around the nation and a daily online posting of the daily workout, it is easy to either find a gym near you or do it right at home!

Shelbi’s Pick…HOT YOGA: Hot Yoga or “Bikram” Yoga is one of the newest trends sweeping the country. Studios that offer only this form of yoga are popping up all over the place. The class is an hour and a half long, and takes you through a specific series of 26 poses and 2 breathing exercises. The format of the class was designed by a doctor and a famous “Yogi” to provide optimal health benefits. Also, the room is roughly 105°F. If you are someone who needs non-impact exercises due to knee or other joint problems, this is a great trend for you. However, be prepared to sweat it out for 90 minutes. Although you are stretching, it is still challenging. However the instructors are patient and knowledgeable so they can help you with poses, and like most things, you improve every time you go. Most classes also leave time at the end for meditation, which is great way to manage your stress!

Carolyn’s Pick…PILOXING: Piloxing! Sounds familiar right? This is a new craze that combines, you guessed it! Pilates and kickboxing. This class was designed by a Swedish dancer who aims for women to attain a “sleek, sexy and powerful self-image”. Piloxing blends the command, speed and agility of boxing with the beautiful sculpting and flexibility of Pilates along with fun dance moves! In addition to Pilates and boxing movements, the exercise incorporates the use of weighted gloves which adds to the workout by toning the arms and maximizing cardiovascular health!

So, whether it is one of these 4 new classes or something different, try to find which one suits you best! Going to different types of exercise classes can be fun and motivating, so bring a friend or loved one, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier lifestyle in no time!

What new trend are you ready to try?