One of the things I find difficult these days is finding the right fitness class. It’s not one size fits all and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. We all have different bodies and what works for me may not work for you. I am looking to add a new fitness class, other than the usual yoga, to my week. Obviously, the one’s listed I would do but that doesn’t mean you have to. They may peak your interest and you can always give any of them a try. Most fitness studios have a trial period where you can try the class for two weeks, sometimes a month!
It’s okay to mix and match as well. Maybe yoga once a week, home workouts and another workout at a studio. I feel like you are more likely to stick to a new program if it’s built in your schedule and you have something to look forward to during the week. Monday yoga may be a good way to start or end your week. Maybe you need something that’s high intensity during the week to keep you energized. You know how you feel so set your schedule based on this.
Here are a few great fitness studios in Toronto and New York. Of course, I will add to this list, but for now, I am featuring four. I get overwhelmed looking at too many, I can’t seem to make a decision. I am sure you feel the same way. It’s like…which one do I try? Are they all equally good? It’s nice to simplify things. So you can check out two classes in each city. Stay tuned for what I am into next. For now, here they are.
Location: Yorkville, Toronto – Main Studio 55 Avenue Road.
I have taken a class with Firestarter instructor Michelle Leung before, she is amazing. If you want to sweat and get energized this is the class for you. 30 minutes of intense cardio with strength training that uses your own body weight is perfect for a mid-week morning rush. It’s not always about time, a quality high-intensity workout is more than enough. You have no excuse not to fit this class into your schedule. 30 minutes of HIIT (high-intensity interval training) training and you’re done!
When: Wednesday 6:30 am – 7:00 am.
Location: 435 King Street West, Toronto
It’s finally here, the beloved Soulcycle and I am super excited. Soulcycle is an indoor cycling studio. I am a big fan of fitness studios that understand fitness is more than just losing weight. In their words, “SoulCycle doesn’t just change bodies, it changes lives.” Yes, it’s true the right workout at the right fitness studio can change your life. We all know the way you feel boosts your self-esteem. You want to feel good and look good and go to a place where this is the main goal. Classes are 45 minutes. They also add hand weights and core work, it’s a full body workout. There are a few classes to choose from. Try their community class if you want to see what it’s all about before you commit.
When: You decide! Check the schedule.
Location: 406 East 91st Street (Between First and York Ave.) New York, NY – check their site to see if there is one located near you!
I stumbled upon this class in NYC when I was there during fashions week. I love rowing and the idea of a rowing class is exciting! This low impact and full body workout targets “over 85% of your muscles with every stroke you take.” You can burn over 800 calories per workout! I hope Row House comes to Toronto. I would start and end my week with a good row session. On Monday, start strong with a row and on Friday row out all the things that stressed you out during the week.
When: Check the schedule
Please keep in mind, the schedules of the classes listed above are subject to change so be sure to check the schedule.
Location: NoHo: 650 Broadway, 3rd Fl. & Union Square: 47 West 14th St. 2nd FL, New York.
Flex Studios is another gem I am excited to share with you. They offer three different group workouts this includes Pilates, Barre, TRX. It’s hard to find three of your favourite workouts in one studio. If you go a few times a week you can mix things up. I like the fact that all three workouts flow into each other since they are designed to strengthen, lengthen and tone. FLEXTRX, for example, is a pilates inspired workout that uses your own body as resistance. They also offer combinations classes that consist of either two of their methods or three of their methods ( FlexPilates, FlexBarre & FlexTRX). You can also just take each method individually as well.
When: They offer different classes, check the schedule and find what suits you!
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