New Year, New Workout...?

There are many different options for workouts to try. So what are some of the options if you're interested in trying a new workout routine in a new place?

1) A gym- this is general, but often joining a gym offers a wide range of fitness classes, fitness equipment, and options. This is great if you know how to work out and want a variety of options. For example, they have free weights and machines for strengthening, so you can pick how you would like to work out. They offer various cardiovascular equipment including: bikes, treadmills, elliptical trainers, and step machines. Many gyms offer group classes, where an instructor will guide you through a specific exercise routine, it may be: weights, yoga, pilates, or zumba. Some offer personal training services as well.

2) A boutique gym- Innovative Therapy & Wellness would fall into this category. We offer one-on-one personal training and pilates instruction. This is great if you need someone to guide you through a work out, watch your form, and make sure you won't hurt yourself. You will be closely monitored throughout your routine.

3) Pilates- Although pilates is offered at boutique gyms, there are pilates studios as well. They only offer pilates, in both a group setting and one-on-one, and usually have mat classes and equipment based classes. Pilates is aimed at specifically targeting your core stabilizing muscles in order to provide a solid foundation for functional movement.

4) Yoga- Although it can be offered at gyms, it is generally at a specific yoga studio. Yoga is a mind-body activity where the breath works with movement in order to move through postures with emphasis on improving flexibility and strength. It is generally offered in a group setting, although one-on-one training may be offered at some studios.

5) Kickboxing & Martial Arts- There are specific studios for these activities, and they are a more high intensity work out that uses functional movements of kicking and punching to get a cardiovascular and strengthening work out. Although there are various types of martial arts, often there is an emphasis on the full body connection including mind and breath work as well. Generally these are also in a group setting.

6) Crossfit- This workout has become increasingly popular in the past few years. It is performed in a group setting, in what they call a “box”, because it is more open space than gym equipment. Participants are taken through an always changing workout series consisting of olympic style weight lifting, and high intensity rounds of movements. For example, a workout may include push ups, pull ups, squats, and a run performed in a circuit multiple times. It is a fun, competitive group atmosphere. Most crossfit gyms will require you do an introductory class to ensure proper technique and form with exercises.