Choosing an exercise class

A class act – choosing an exercise class

Many of us start out with the best intentions in January. We’re going to be healthier. We’re going to join a gym. We’re going to get fit… By March, those intentions have all too often fallen by the wayside. One of the best ways to stick to your goals is by joining a gym class. The regular timings make exercising a habit. You’ll be encouraged to keep up the pace and motivated to improve. Plus, the social side of classes make them more fun, so you’ll actually look forward to going. Generally, the best gym class is one you’ll enjoy, as you’re more likely to stick to it. That said, you won’t know what you enjoy until you try it, so here’s a few suggestions to get you started…

Best for strengthening

Think ‘strengthening’ and the first thing that comes to mind is weights. Classes like kettlebells, circuits and body pump combine weights with cardiovascular training, giving you a great all-round workout. But you don’t have to lift weights to strengthen your muscles – you could also try a gentler resistance-based exercise like Pilates, barre or aqua fit.

Best for getting fit

Most exercise classes will burn calories and improve your endurance. If you’re already reasonably fit, you might want to look at a high-energy class like boot camp, circuit training, spin or high intensity interval training (HIIT).

Best for aches and stiffness

Pilates is a fantastic all-round exercise that can help to strengthen your core muscles and improve your flexibility. By doing so, it can reduce stiffness, backache and other issues. Most leisure centres offer a beginner’s Pilates class or one that’s suitable for all levels. You’ll usually need a yoga mat and comfortable clothes that allow you to move without restriction. As with any new gym class, if you have any injuries or other challenges, let the instructor know. They can then tell you if there are any moves you need to avoid. Other options: • Barre • Yoga • Body balance

Best for stress relief

To ease stress, anxiety and other mental health issues, you might want to look at doing a combination of classes – one or two high-energy, high-fun classes, like dancercise or boxercise and a more mindful yoga, Pilates or Tai Chi class.

Best for reduced mobility

If agility or mobility is an issue, try a low-impact class like aqua flex. It’s often done to music, and you don’t even need to be able to swim, as it’s usually done standing up in the shallow end.

Other options:

• Pilates • Walking circuits • Low-impact aerobics

In short…

Gone are the days when gyms only offered a handful of classes. These days, there really is something for everyone. To find the right class for you, discuss your goals with your gym instructor so they can recommend a few classes for you to try.