To get off our behinds and get in shape, what we need, first and foremost, is motivation! But once every exercise has been exhausted—it’s “been there, done that” with jogging, spinning, and yoga—it’s difficult to find something new and exciting to get us back into a gym. So for a motivational boost, check out these new fitness trends that have been garnering a lot off attention recently.
What is it? A revolutionary new workout that exercises both body and spirit, blending yoga with spinning. The workout begins with a 10-minute yoga warm-up, followed by 40 minutes of spinning, and is capped off with another 10 minutes of yoga and cool-down. The cycling portion of the exercise works on breathing and tightens the muscles.
Who’s it for? All yoga enthusiasts who want something a bit more challenging.
Zumba
What is it? An exercise that has you dancing to the sounds of flamenco and samba, while performing aerobic movements. Originating in Miami, Zumba has already found a following within the Hollywood crowd.
Who’s it for? Those who love Latin dancing and want to burn a few extra calories. (Zumba burns approximately 600 calories per hour!)
What is it? An exercise that has you dancing to the sounds of flamenco and samba, while performing aerobic movements. Originating in Miami, Zumba has already found a following within the Hollywood crowd.
Who’s it for? Those who love Latin dancing and want to burn a few extra calories. (Zumba burns approximately 600 calories per hour!)
| Gyrotonic What is it? A type of exercises that mix dance, yoga, tai-chi and Pilates, Gyrotonic exercises place emphasis on muscle strength and flexibility via stretches and movements emulating biking and swimming. Some use a specialized machine for gyrotonic exercises, but they can be performed in a gym, as well. There are dozens of certified gyrotonic centres across the country. Who’s it for? For those who want to feel sexy and at-ease in their own skin. It’s great for those with back problems, as well! |
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Bikram Yoga
What is it? It seems like your usual yoga, save for the fact that this workout takes place in a location of extreme heat; a whopping 35 degrees! It’s this high temperature, a simulation of the hot temperatures in India (Bikram Yoga’s birthplace), that makes you understand the importance of breathing in yoga, and helps relieve tension.
Who’s it for? If you can tolerate extreme heat, this one’s for you. You need to already be in fairly good shape and love the feeling of your body ridding itself of toxins. This activity is not recommended for those with heart conditions.
Body Balance
What is it? A more energized and upbeat version of tai-chi. Body balance works the muscles, but places emphasis on loosening up the body and stretching, as well. A class generally lasts for an hour and is divided into 3 phases: breathing exercises, joint and muscular exercises, and relaxation.
Who’s it for? Those who simply want to loosen up, as well as increase flexibility and balance in a zen-like manner.
What is it? It seems like your usual yoga, save for the fact that this workout takes place in a location of extreme heat; a whopping 35 degrees! It’s this high temperature, a simulation of the hot temperatures in India (Bikram Yoga’s birthplace), that makes you understand the importance of breathing in yoga, and helps relieve tension.
Who’s it for? If you can tolerate extreme heat, this one’s for you. You need to already be in fairly good shape and love the feeling of your body ridding itself of toxins. This activity is not recommended for those with heart conditions.
Body Balance
What is it? A more energized and upbeat version of tai-chi. Body balance works the muscles, but places emphasis on loosening up the body and stretching, as well. A class generally lasts for an hour and is divided into 3 phases: breathing exercises, joint and muscular exercises, and relaxation.
Who’s it for? Those who simply want to loosen up, as well as increase flexibility and balance in a zen-like manner.
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Power Plates What is it? A series of exercises that are performed on a vibrating machine. Power Plates destabilizes the body’s muscles, forcing them to contract so that you remain in equilibrium. Your muscles are thus always in a state of contraction, which yields quick and efficient results: it strengthens the body incredibly fast, as well as improves your blood circulation. One Power Plates session lasts for 10 minutes. It’s advised to consult your doctor before starting this exercise program. Who’s it for? Those with back problems, osteoporosis or arthritis, or for those who simply want to increase their bone and muscle mass, and for those who want a reduction in their cellulite appearance. |