Are you tired of your exercise routine? Is it becoming nonexistent? Let us help you mix it up! Working out should be fun, not frustrating. And with summer in full force, maintaining that bikini body is more important than ever. That’s why me and 3 of JustFab’s social media mavens tried a few new group exercise classes at our local Spectrum Club. Jump-start your workout routine with these 5 fabulous classes that will whip you into shape without beating you down.
Class Description: Dance to the latest music while transporting yourself to a place of wild abandon. This dynamic workout is full of sweat and sensuality and is sure to empower your body and mind.
Why It Works For Me: Natasha
If the only place you enjoy exercising is on the dance floor, then you’ll love this class as much as I did! By the end of the class, I burned a ton of calories and learned a lot of new dance moves for the next Girls’ Night Out. The instructor, Nicole, taught 8 counts at a time until the group learned the 1-minute long routine. Hearing my favorite dance artists, J. Lo, Beyonce, Britney Spears and Pitbull made the hour fly by.
Why It’s Not For Me: Ceci
While I loved the idea of jumping around and getting down to some bumpin’ music, I had a little more difficulty learning a choreographed routine at such a fast pace. I’ve learned that I’m a gal that thrives more with traditional exercises and being able to pick her own playlist.
Heart Rate Monitor Says:
Class Description: This class is perfect for all fitness levels because you can work at your own pace. Not only are you getting fit, but you are learning a very usable skill, a self-defense method.
Muay Thai is a martial art, a combat sport. For us, this 1-hour class was more educational, as Jackie, the instructor, taught us some of the basic movements like striking, jabbing and kicking.
Why It Works For Me: Ceci
Muay Thai ended up being one of my top picks; I may even end up adding it to my routine. It was exciting to find a type of exercise where you can learn a life skill, like self-defense moves, and find a new outlet to relieve some stress. There’s also something empowering about putting on those gloves and breaking a sweat – it gives you a sense of accomplishment.
Why It’s Not For Me: Jillian
Embarrassing as this is, I was expecting a more traditional kickboxing workout. Clearly I failed to do my research in advance. But learning the basics was interesting, and based on observing the regular class members, I can tell that once you know what you’re doing, this can be an intense workout. Unfortunately, it’s just not for me. If I’m going to be doing choreographed moves, I prefer them to be more of the dance variety.
Heart Rate Monitor Says:
Class Description: Intense, small group workout focusing on strength, power, speed, agility and endurance. This cross-training program uses a variety of equipment – kettlebells, boxes and sleds – and is designed to help you reach new levels of fitness, function, definition and athleticism.
Why It Works For Me: Melina
I’m not going to lie; this was one of the most difficult workouts I’ve ever attempted. I immediately felt a burn and couldn’t fathom how I’d get through a 60-minute workout. But I did, and I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. I experienced a serious endorphin rush by the end of class, as well as an energy boost that lasted until the next morning. Despite being unbelievably sore the next day, I’d try it again! I love that it’s a total body workout that focuses on building endurance, strength and speed.
Why It’s Not For Me: Natasha
When you sign 3 forms to take a fitness class, that should tell you something. 30 minutes into the class, I was trying to channel a better place in my mind, a place where I didn’t have to do 100 squats with an 18-pound kettlebell. The instructor, Dean, was great. He spent time with everyone in the class, and afterward I definitely felt the results. But I would rather forego sugar for the rest of my life than take this class again.
Heart Rate Monitor Says:
Class Description: The original barbell class that strengthens the entire body. This workout challenges all your major muscle groups by using the best weight-room exercises, like squats, presses, lifts and curls. Great music, awesome instructors and your choice of weight inspire you to get the results you came for – and fast.
Why It Works For Me: Jillian
I really enjoyed this class. It was the most ‘traditional’ group exercise class we took all week. The music was upbeat and current, and I love any class that works my arms, legs and abs in one. You have time to change your weight between songs, so you can adjust depending on which muscle group you’ll be working next. Plus, the instructor, Michelle, always did a few stretches after each segment.
Why It’s Not For Me: Melina
Body Pump was not for me! I was tired and sore from Ultimate Cross Fit the night before, and frankly, the workout didn’t seem challenging enough. I don’t feel this class alone would help me meet my fitness goals. My recommendations: do cardio before or after class, and don’t attend this class right after killing yourself at Ultimate Cross Fit!
Heart Rate Monitor Says:
I grew up swimming competitively, but it’s been years since I’ve experienced a true workout. Spectrum let me practice with the Masters on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Coach Elizabeth was great about putting people at similar levels in the same lanes, and then tailoring the workout to their capabilities. On Monday, I swam 2,350 yards (94 laps), while the more advanced swimmers reached 3,100 yards (124 laps). On Wednesday, I led my lane of 3, and we swam 2,500 yards (100 laps). I loved it! Of everything I tried this week, I’m glad I got to swim again. It’s the best full-body workout with the lowest risk of injury.
Want to try a class? Visit SpectrumClubs.com for schedules and availability. Let us know which one is your favorite!
Disclaimer: The goal of this post is to introduce you to something new. Classes like Spin, Yoga, Zumba, etc., are also great options, but were not included due to their popularity.
