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Which Phrase Motivates You More?

FitSugar — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 03:00:00 -0700

A new study suggests that women with issues with their body-image are more likely to benefit from an exercise class where the instructor emphasizes the health benefits of the workout over improved appearance, even if those women chose the class in hopes of improving their physique.

This is interesting to me as I am always trying to emphasize the fact the health, above all, is the most important aspect in getting fit. Looking good is a result of getting healthy and will come in time. However it's been my experience in the past that most of us are motivated to get fit so we can look good.

So as always I am curious what you guys think -- Which phrase used by your exercise instructor would motivate you more?

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Have You Ever Walked Out of a Group Fitness Class?

FitSugar — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 03:47:38 -0800

Even if kickboxing or step aerobics aren't your ideal fitness experience, working out in a group can buoy your spirits and help motivate you to push yourself. That being said, occasionally there's a sub standing in for your favorite teacher and you just can't hack it. Or you try a new class, realize you're in over your head, and fear injury if you finish. I have quietly moved to the back of a workout studio and slipped out the door to finish a workout on a treadmill when a class just wasn't moving enough for me. What about you?

Group Fitness Class: What's the Ideal Size For You?

FitSugar — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 04:30:00 -0800

I would like to work a few group fitness classes into my workout life. Running alone can get a little lonely. Whether it's Nia, Zumba, or an Anusara Yoga class, I like the class size to have at least 15 people. Somehow that number of people moving at once inspires me to push myself hard. What about you?

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Class Act: Skinny Jeans Fitness Workout

FitSugar — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:43:33 -0700

I won't lie, the name caught my attention: Skinny Jeans Workout, a place where denim and my hamstrings collide. I find the fashion / fitness connection slightly amusing, but the 45 minute class left me more than slightly sweaty. It truly is a sculpting workout that borrows from a diverse array of fitness methods. We did lunges of all sorts, from the basic forward variety to the criss-crossing curtsy lunge. We did squat variations. We even did multiple Warrior 3s. My legs and glutes were worked from all angles ensuring that every fiber was taxed. There were sections of the workout that felt rather balletic too; these moves really worked the deep glute muscles that help lift the seat. The class kept moving, and my heart rate stayed pumping for most of the class. The first 35 minutes of the class are standing and there is an emphasis on standing tall and keeping your chest open, since part of looking good in your skinny jeans is postural. I have heard that slouching can make a person look 10 pounds heavier. The ab work is very Pilates based, with cuing to keep the abs pulled to the spine - a phrase you can't make it through a Pilates session without hearing repeatedly.

I will definitely take this class again and recommend it. This class is currently offered at many Equinox locations, but look for a version at a gym near you.

Speak Up: What Fitness Class Have You Always Wanted to Try?

FitSugar — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 14:30:00 -0700

To keep my fitness life fresh I've tried a variety of classes: Brazilian martial arts Jiu Jitsu, spiritual aerobic dance Nia, and Hooping to learn some impressive Hula-hoop tricks.

Now I really want to try Jukari, a fitness class that combines cardio and suspension. Designed by Cirque du Soleil, it has to be both fun and challenging like Circus Arts. I can't wait to try it when classes begin in my area. What about you? What fitness class have you always wanted to try?

Speak Up: Mirrors in Fitness Classes?

FitSugar — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:00:00 -0700

If you belong to a gym that offers fitness classes or you take classes at a yoga, martial arts, or dance studio, there's a good chance that one side of the room is covered in wall-to-wall mirrors.

Now I'm all for using mirrors to check my form and alignment while lifting weights or doing strength-training moves, but what do you think about having a huge mirror opposite you for an entire class? Do you like seeing yourself or being able to see others? Or is it too much of a distraction? Does it make you feel self-conscious, or does it inspire you to work harder?

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FREE Stroller Fit Class

FitSugar — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:00:00 -0700

On Saturday March 15th the good folks over at StrollerFit - an innovative fitness company that helps moms exercise with their babies - are offering a free Family Class and lunch (classes are approximately 50 minutes including warm-up, strengthening, cardio, stretching and cool-down). All you have to do is find a location near you. Check out StrollerFit for more information, find a location, and sign up.

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Fit Tip: Spy Before You Try

FitSugar — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:30:15 -0700

We've all been there: you waltz into a new group glass at the gym only to discover that the yoga is far beyond your reach or the dance moves are better suited to fly girls than fitness buffs. Getting in over your head can not only be embarrassing, but it can also lead to injuries.

So before you wander into a class based on a friend's recommendation or a cool-sounding description, stop by the week prior and peek into the studio. Position yourself outside the door or in the back of the room and observe five to 10 minutes of the class, enough to get a sense of whether or not it's for you. It's best to come in at least 10 minutes into it, so you can observe post-warmup.

Fit's Tips For Your First Spinning Class

FitSugar — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 09:00:00 -0800

It's no wonder some of us are intimidated by spinning classes: the padded shorts and biking shoes that many people wear on their way into class make it seem intense and exclusive. While it's true the classes offer an intense workout, gyms don't offer spinning classes with the intention of creating an in-house cyclists-only club. Stop being intimidated and try something new by participating in this challenging cardio workout.

Getting started: Because there are only a certain number of bikes available per class, peak-time classes often require you to pick up a pass beforehand so you're guaranteed a spot. Arrive early so you have time to adjust your bike, and if the instructor isn't there yet don't be afraid to ask someone around you for help if you need it.

To see more of my tips for spinning first-timers, read more.

What to expect: The instructor will guide you through the workout, telling you when to increase resistance and when to pedal faster. You're guided through climbs, sprints, and muscle isolations, with intermittent lower-resistance pedaling during cruising periods. There's music blasting that keeps you moving for the entire class, and you'll sweat - a lot.
What to wear: No need to go shopping for cycling gear. Wear your workout sneakers and a top that breathes easily. I recommend wearing 3/4 length pants, but if you don't have them, full-length will be fine.
What to bring: A bottle of water and at least one towel.

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Speak Up: What Do You Like About Group Fitness Classes?

FitSugar — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:30:00 -0700

When it comes to working out, I keep an eclectic mix going. Spinning, I like running and swimming by myself, but group classes like yoga, Pilates, and kickboxing are also some of my faves. Exercising in a group generally makes me work harder, especially when the energy of the class is high and the instructor is motivating. I also like knowing I will be done in an hour or an hour and half, it helps me plan for class and for afterwards. Plus, I like leaning new moves and getting feedback from the instructors about form. These are some of the reasons I like group classes. What about you? Tell me why you like group classes in the comments section below.

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