Whether you’re on your new year fitness journey or you are an avid gym member you may have realised that the gym routine after sometimes becomes monotonous and then boring. Like everything else in life, you have to keep it interesting. So, in the search of interesting, here are five trendy workouts you need to try.
Soul Cycle
Usually in a dim-lit studio with motivational quotes on the walls, few rows of bikes and one leader bike at the front podium. Soul Cycle was most likely the number one fitness workout of 2019. Endorsed by many celebrities like Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow, Beyoncé and Hilary Duff. Soul cycle is 45-minute-high intensity, cardio cycling workout to upbeat music. The cult workout is known for the class energy and motivational impact of the classes. The workout is best if you want to improve your cardio and general fitness.
Pole Fitness
Pole fitness is an extension of pole dancing that uses the pole as the only equipment. The workout consists of pole dancing and resistance training by using your body as the resistant weight. The workout is mostly an upper body workout that improves your arm muscle tone, flexibility and core strength. So, for all those trying to bring the sexy back into their workouts pole fitness is a fun option to try.
Barre Fitness
Barre fitness is a hybrid workout that combines classic ballet moves with Pilates, yoga and strength training so like the Nutcracker but with weights and resistance bands. In this class, the plies and grand plies are held down longer while you contract specific muscles until you feel the burn. The low impact exercise is best for strength training for your core and also if you are recovering from an injury. The workout can also an accompanying workout for before or after a high-intensity workout.
CrossFit
Cross fit training which was originally popular with bodybuilders and professional athletes has moved to become a cult workout. The workout, usually done in a warehouse garage or basement consists of high-intensity interval training of everyday activities, for example, pulling, pushing and squatting. The workout is a high impact full body workout but can also be segmented into working on different parts of your body on different days, ever heard of leg day? This workout is best if you are training for an event or if you just need to get in incredible shape.
Yoga
When it comes to yoga, there is always seems to be a new kind of yoga. Hot yoga, aerial yoga, blacklight yoga and animal yoga. Although there seem to be infinite types of yoga, the beauty of it is that you don’t need to be a yogi or try all these classes to reap the benefits all you need is a yoga mat, your favourite pair of lululemons and a basic knowledge of the poses. With yoga, you work out both your body and mind. The workout is best for flexibility training but also helps to calm and centre the mind.
Words by Precious Njoki
Graphics by Katie Janes
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