Over the next few weeks, we’ll be publishing a variety of health and fitness-related posts meant to guide, inspire, and motivate you on your journey. We hope these will be a valuable resource for a moms; whether you’re still going strong since January 1st OR possibly need to be re-motivated.
Let’s be honest for a minute, shall we? We all know we should be working out, but how many of us really want to do it? If you’re anything like me, exercise falls by the wayside when I’m swimming in the diapers and laundry, and most days, just getting everybody dressed and out the door is workout enough for me.
One thing I’ve discovered over the last several years to combat this hang-up is group fitness classes. They say life is better with friends, right? Well, I say fitness is better with friends. I’m much more motivated to get myself up and out the door when I know I have friends expecting me to show up to work out with them. It’s fun to get to catch up with friends when we’re all so busy, and knocking out a workout at the same time just makes it even more productive, right?
I’m also a big fan of changing things up and trying new things, so I’ve spent the last several weeks trying out various group workout classes in the area and am excited to share my favorites.
Before I jump into the new classes I tried, I’ll share that I’ve been doing some form of circuit training/interval training for most of the last year. Every organization seems to use a different name for these interval-based classes, but they all follow a very basic format. Whether they’re called HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), Strength Circuit, Boot Camp, or Insanity, they’re all going to do the same basic thing. These classes work in blocks of exercises that are generally 30-60 seconds long per set and repeat.
These are my very favorite classes for getting results. Since they are a mix of cardio and strength moves, they hit a huge variety of muscle groups and tone all over. You can find classes like this at basically EVERY gym in town, so take a look at your local gym’s class schedule if you’re interested in trying them out.
Let’s start at the bar. For those of you who prefer a lower intensity or dance-style workout, a great option is Bar Method. My sweet friend, Nicole has been an instructor at the West Frisco location since it opened, and she took me through an amazing, full-body workout that left me shaking and sore for days afterward. Their brand new studio is not only beautiful, but also warm, welcoming, and modern, and I loved hanging with them. If you need low impact or just prefer not to be dripping in sweat, I highly recommend them.
The second place I visited was FlyWheel Sports in Plano for a 45-minute spin class. If I lived closer to it, this would absolutely be a place I went regularly. The instructor, Brendan, was motivating, high-energy, and I never got bored or felt the need to check my watch. This class also followed the intervals method – certain songs were dedicated to resistance, others to sprints, and there was an even a song dedicated to toning and arms. I loved the music, the vibe of the studio, and the change of pace. My experience here was fantastic.
Of everywhere I tried, this is the place I can see myself sticking to most. Not only was it the most convenient to me, but it the place I felt the most accomplished. I have to admit: the cult following of this place was a little bit intimidating, so I was nervous heading into my class. But my coach, Lindsey, made me feel comfortable and at ease from the moment I walked in. She checked on me throughout class, and I am really looking forward to returning for a second one. There are more than 10 locations in Collin County, so I’m sure you could find one close to home.
These were my personal favorites, but the bottom line is this: you do you. Whatever your fitness goals and preferences, there is absolutely a class in the area that will meet your needs. If you’re not enjoying yourself, being challenged, and experiencing community where you’re currently working out, take a look around. Try something new. (By the way, all of the studios I mentioned above offer FREE trial classes for first-timers!) If you’re having fun, pushing yourself, and making friends at the same time, I say that’s a workout worth the effort.
