One of the biggest problems for people who are looking to get fit or lose weight is that they aren’t sure exactly how to do it. The best thing about fitness classes is that you don’t have to know what you’re doing. You can just show up to the class and follow the instructor. As long as you move, you will get a workout. It doesn’t even have to look pretty.
When taking a class, there’s no guessing about what to do at the gym.
- How long should I walk on this elliptical?
- What do I use this machine for?
- How many of these do I do?
You won’t be having all these questions in a class because it will all be explained for you.
Don’t spend wasted time at the gym trying to figure out what to do. Try a class and KNOW what to do.
I have made a list of some of the best and most unique fitness classes for you to try. Working out doesn’t have to be boring so have fun and try something new!
However, if the thought of working out in a class atmosphere sounds terrible, but you still want the guidance of a class, be sure to check out my list of best ways to stream workouts online in the privacy of your home! Everything from barre classes to boot camp-style classes you can do in your living room!
10 Best Fitness Classes for Women
1. Zumba Fitness
A dance-fitness exercise class with booty shaking choreography from dance styles around the world. The music and high energy is what makes this fitness class exciting. There are over 140,000 locations that offer Zumba classes worldwide.
2. Barre class
Inspired by the use of a ballet barre, these exercises are designed to give you a long, lean, dancer-like body. It combines elements of ballet, yoga, and Pilates for a completely low-impact workout that will make your muscles burn. Classes are usually held in a large open room with mirrors and a ballet bar across the wall, similar to what you would see in a ballet studio. Group classes are popping up all over the country. Some of the most popular are Pure Barre, The Bar Method , and Barre3.
3. Aerial Fitness/Yoga
Ever seen a Cirque du Soleil show and been amazed by the performers twisting and turning in suspended silk? You can be a part of the action with aerial fitness classes. It combines circus, gymnastics, yoga, and suspension training. It’s known for increasing flexibility, balance, and strength. It’s easy on the joints! While these classes aren’t as widespread as other yoga classes, you should be able to find a studio offering aerial fitness.
4. Boxing Fitness Class
There is a 9Round boxing fitness studio right around the corner from my house and I have been wanting to give it a try. Boxing and kickboxing style fitness classes may sound intimidating for some women, but they can be a great workout! A boxing workout is a full-body workout that can help you gain some muscle and confidence. Find a boxing studio near you by checking out 9Round or Title Boxing Club .
5. Orange Theory Fitness
If you like a hardcore workout with expert guidance, and progress tracking every step of the way, then you should definitely try out an Orange Theory Fitness class. Check out my experience with Orange Theory here.
6. Trampoline
It’s not just for childhood friends to enjoy in the backyard. Trampoline parks are becoming more popular across the country, offering fitness classes for adults. Even just standing on a trampoline burns more calories because you are using different muscles to stabilize yourself. More info available here.
7. Indoor Cycle Class
Cycle studios, like barre studios, have become very popular. You never know, cycling classes may be your spirit workout and it is definitely worth trying one at least once! Cycling classes are available in several health and fitness clubs around the world or you can find a cycle studio near you. Some of the most popular cycling studios include SoulCycle, Cyclebar, and RealRyder studios. I have done a Cyclebar class before and while it was definitely challenging and exciting, cycling is not my favorite workout form. But at least I tried it!
8. Boot Camp
Don’t think “drill sergeant” when you think of taking a boot camp class. Boot camp is simply a large group personal training class that involves guidance and motivation from a professional. Boot camp classes usually use a large range of equipment, from dumbbells to medicine balls, and bodyweight exercises. There are also boxing style boot camps that use things like heavy bags and jump ropes. Boot camp classes often work in circuits or “stations” so it can accommodate many different fitness levels. There is a camaraderie or team spirit in most boot camp classes.
9. Pilates
Focuses on core strength and flexibility through fluid movements. A low impact way to exercise that is great for any fitness level, from athletes and dancers, to seniors and pregnant women. The six key Pilates principles are: centering, control, flow, breathing, precision, and concentration. The music, if any is usually calm and relaxing. The exercises are all done on a mat or floor. Many gyms offer pilates classes, or you can check out a Club Pilates studio near you.
10. Pound
A full-body cardio session that uses light resistance sticks, called RipStix, to simulate drumming to the music. It combines easy to follow moves with strength training and drumming. Their saying is “Rock out while you work out”. Music is a big part of this workout, with a hand-selected POUNDtrack series. Find a class near you here.
What Now?
Simple, start exploring!
I understand that you may not want to sign up for a class package just to see if you like the class. Many studios offer your first class free so there is not obligation to continue with classes if it’s not for you.
If the class you want to try is not offered for free the first time, there are a couple options to get a discounted rate. Groupon and Living Social will offer great deals on local fitness sessions that you are trying for the first time. Take advantage of them and don’t be embarrassed if you don’t end up signing up for a membership at the end of your session. You tried it, didn’t like it, move on!
If you like to hop around to different types of class, ClassPass is worth checking out. They allow you to attend different gyms and classes all over the country for one monthly fee.
Let me know in the comments below if there is one I missed, and let me know if you try one on the list! I love to hear from you!
Hello Lindsey,
As a fellow fitness enthusiast, I wanted to get your thoughts on all the virtual reality gear/equipment you can get these days.
Have you ever tried any of them, and if so, what are your thoughts.
Thanks for any feedback.