Mom did step class, climbed the Stair Master and pounded the treadmill. Luckily, today’s workout options are more engaging – and way more fun – than those of the past.
Fitness expert and creator of Plyo Dance Mario Godiva says that’s because classes like his are a more dynamic combination of elements.
“Plyo Dance takes the traditional concepts of rebound exercise, aerobics,and interval training and combines it with a unique fusion of rhythms and equipment,” he explains. “Your body burns fat and calories long after class has ended.”
So that got us thinking – what other new workouts should we be doing?
Plyo Dance
You know that rush you get when dancing alone in your room to a really great song? Plyo Dance with Mario Godiva is like that, but in addition to burning calories, you’re also working your core. The core workout comes courtesy of the Kangoos you’re wearing, which are rebound sport shoes that look like a pair of Rollerblades with springs where the wheels should be. You bounce-dance around to routines that Godiva sets to Top 40 music, burning anywhere from 700 to 1,200 calories per class! The weight of the Kangoos also strengthens your legs and improves balance, agility and speed.
Spinning
Perfect for fitness-seekers who love a fast-paced workout, one 45-minute spin class can burn up to 500 calories – but that really depends on how hard you want to work. That’s because spinning uses a stationary bike’s varying tension levels, which you control, to get rid of fat, build muscle and increase endurance. At studios like Soul Cycle, the workout is a full-body one and includes an arm series with weights that tone and firm your upper body.
Bolly Dance
A mix of traditional Indian folk dances and hip-hop moves, Bolly Dance is a cardio-conditioning workout that’s great for weight loss. The instructor-led dance routines target major muscle groups with high-intensity movements to tone your core, legs and arms, among other areas. Bolly Dance is a cardio workout that doesn’t feel like a workout, so it’s popular with people who are tired of the treadmill. Plus, you learn fun cultural tidbits along the way!
Hot Yoga
Unlike some traditional forms of yoga, which lower your heart and metabolic rates, hot yoga raises your heart rate and strengthens your cardiovascular system. That’s no surprise, considering you’re sweating it out in a room that’s 105 degrees Fahrenheit and 40 percent humidity! In general, hot yoga’s poses tend to be more strenuous than other forms, so this class isn’t recommended for beginners. But it’s worth building up to, because an intense 90-minute class can burn up to 1,000 calories.
Piloxing
Combining Pilates and boxing into a single class, this core-centric interval workout focuses on sculpting muscle and burning fat. Swedish dancer and celebrity trainer Viveca Jensen created the workout to blend the power, speed and agility of boxing with the toning and flexibility benefits of Pilates. Geared toward women, Piloxing is a celebration of feminine power and strong self-image. Classes are available across the country.
Trampoline Classes
Does bouncing off the pounds sound like fun to you? Trampoline classes may just be your fitness calling! Meant to boost energy and vitality, trampoline cardio classes – also known as “rebounding” – are low-impact workouts that increase stamina, build muscle and improve circulation. Used as an exercise for WWII pilots and later in astronaut training programs, rebounding is good for your bones, too, because it stimulates the pituitary gland. Plus, trampoline fitness improves your balance by stabilizing your core.
Aqua Zumba
Aqua Zumba brings together water fitness moves, like jumping jacks and cross-country skiing, and the upbeat Latin dance moves and music of Zumba. It’s a low-impact exercise, meaning it’s easier on your body and joints, which uses water resistance to increase strength and flexibility. Exercises like front kicks and high knees are set to an upbeat music selection for a high-energy, party-like atmosphere. Aqua Zumba is a cardio workout for the entire body.
