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WELLBEING
THE RETURN OF GROUP EXERCISE By Charlotte Forde
Normality is nearly upon us and with indoor group exercise classes returning from the 17th May and us no longer having to rely on the Great British Weather , we are sure to see an increase in participation . Group exercise is a great way to work out without having to think or plan as your instructor will do all of the preparation ready to deliver a structured and balanced session . Group exercise is normally an affordable and accessible way to work out and also a great way to meet new friends , however , if you are unsure what classes will be right for you , below are the descriptions of a variety of popular studio classes .
Yoga is a mind and body practice combining physical postures , breathing techniques and meditation . There are several different types of yoga so it is important that you research what type of class you are going to before you attend . If you are a beginner you may want to practice a generic yoga traditionally known as Hatha ; this type of yoga will normally include basic poses . Another popular style of yoga is Ashtanga which is normally more physical as you flow through a sequence of different poses which link your breathing pattern to each movement . Despite the differences , all yoga will reduce stress , improve sleep and enhance your overall well-being .
Fitness Pilates is a low impact class that is designed to strengthen the core and address any basic postural imbalances . The class is suitable for most people ; using the original principles of Pilates , the class focuses on functional techniques that will enhance your mobility and flexibility . Whilst practicing fitness pilates you can expect to increase in your muscular balance and strength whilst improving posture and cognitive function .
PiYo is a pre-choreographed programme that combines the strengthening techniques of Pilates with the flexibility enhancing benefits of Yoga . It is a low impact class but don ’ t be fooled as it is not low in intensity ; the class is set to music so it is quite energetic and can make you sweat . It is really dynamic and can help sculpt your body as you get a whole body workout , but with no weights or jumping throughout the class there is very little stress being put on your joints .
Spinning is a class that is set on a stationary exercise bike and can also be referred to as group / indoor cycle . This class normally has the stigma attached that it is super hard however , you are the only person in control of your bike therefore you can make it as challenging as you like . Spinning is designed to improve your cardiovascular fitness and endurance as well as improve muscular strength and burn plenty of calories in a short amount of time . It is really important that you listen to any safety instructions that your instructor provides prior to the session and as a beginner you should arrive at the class around 10 minutes before the start time to set up your bike .
HIIT ( High Intensity Interval Training ) is a training method where you work at your maximum capability for a short amount of time followed by short periods of rest or active recovery . The aim of the session is for you to train at maximum effort to keep your heart rate high and burn a high amount of calories in a low amount of time . This type of training isn ’ t for the faint-hearted and it is advised that you arrive at the session prepared to work hard , but this shouldn ’ t put people off ; as with any group exercise session , all instructors should be able to adapt their class to make the class inclusive regardless of different abilities and / or injuries .
Boxercise is a non-contact exercise class inspired by the training concepts that boxers may use to keep fit . There are different formats that a class can be taken in depending on the instructor , their background and the equipment that is available . However , a typical class will include a mix of padwork , strength training ( press ups ), cardiovascular exercise ( skipping ) and mat work ( abdominal crunches ). It is a high energy class that requires no prior boxing experience and is a great way to socialize . You will only learn basic striking skills in the session as it is designed for fitness not specific fighting technique however , it is a great stress buster and calorie burner .
Body Conditioning ( sometimes categorised e . g . LBT ’ s - Legs , Bums and Tums etc .) is traditionally delivered at a slow and controlled pace using body weight ; dumbbells ; kettlebells ; booty bands or similar . These sessions are normally freestyled by more experienced instructors but are generally designed to strengthen and increase muscle mass which in turn will change your body shape . In the class you will normally perform a variety of whole body exercises in multiple sets or as a circuit and most classes are suitable for all abilities .
If you ' re new to exercise , group exercise is especially good as you will have an instructor who will demonstrate each exercise and ensure you are executing each move correctly to avoid the risk of injury . Group exercise is an enjoyable way to exercise and may be just what you need to add a little fun into your fitness journey but as with any new exercise routine or if it has been a while since you have exercised , please consult with your doctor if you have health issues or concerns .
Even if none of the above classes get you excited there is guaranteed to be a suitable class out there for you . Classes are a great way to stay motivated and engaged in exercise as you are surrounded by supportive people working hard together , there is also a certain amount of accountability as group classes tend to require advance booking with a penalty if you fail to attend and by participating in a variety of classes you will also continuously challenge your body and reduce the risk of plateauing .
All of the above classes are available through Ellavate Fitness and Training therefore , if you require further information or would like to book a free trial contact train @ ellavatefitness . com or call / text 07523 843911 .
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