Spin, stretch and dance your way to a fitter, healthier you – Philly.com

IF YOU’RE LOOKING to recharge your fitness routine for the new season, consider taking group fitness classes, which have something to offer the novice as well as the seasoned veteran.

Group exercise classes are no longer just obnoxiously loud music and frenetic movements led by an even louder fitness instructor in thong tights while the class struggles to keep up. These days, there are endless choices in group fitness.

Here are three that may motivate you to try something new.

Vinyasa yoga

If you’re looking for an exercise fitness class that provides an inner adventure with a focus on body awareness, mental focus, flexibility and strength, vinyasa yoga may be for you.

All yoga methods use similar movements, but how they’re put together and the way they are done can vary widely.

In the United States, vinyasa – “flow- style” classes that match movement with breath – are the most popular.

This is great exercise, but respect the practice (and your body), and take your time to build flexibility and strength.

Spinning

The spinning craze began in the late ’80s. Johnny G (South African professional cyclist Jonathan Goldberg) invented this indoor cycling regimen as a kick-butt aerobic workout where you exercised at 65 to 80 percent of your maximum heart rate. Today’s spin classes do that and then some.

A typical spin instructor uses music accompaniment to take participants on a journey through a variety of aerobic zones that improve cardiovascular fitness.

Spinning enthusiasts don’t just like it, they love it!

So, if you’re headed to your first class, get there early to sign in and hold your bike.

Zumba

Prefer a dance-inspired group exercise experience? Zumba hit the American exercise scene at the end of the ’90s, and its appeal continues to grow. Women in particular love these dance party classes.

Zumba originated in Colombia and is rooted in Latin dances such as the merengue, salsa, samba, mambo, and flamenco. To get participants going, the typical Zumba instructor will even shout out a few call-and-response cues. It’s a party for sure, but make no mistake: Zumba is a heart-pumping and hip-shaking aerobic class.

The Zumba brand has expanded to include Zumba Gold Toning and Zumba Gold, for older participants and baby boomers; Zumbamatic for kids; Aqua Zumba, done in the pool; and Zumba Tone, which incorporates body-sculpting moves. Find out more at zumba.com.

So, come on! Satisfy your exercise curiosity, make new friends, and plunge into something new.

Kimberly Garrison is a wellness coach and owner of One on One Ultimate Fitness in Philadelphia.

from myhealtyze http://www.myhealtyze.tk/spin-stretch-and-dance-your-way-to-a-fitter-healthier-you-philly-com/