Body Flow
So I’m not exactly a fitness junkie. No, really. If you called up my mom and told her I went for a jog she’d laugh and ask if you were sure you had the right number. I’m not lazy, I just rather not spend my free time getting sweaty and more tired than I already am. Because of that, I normally prefer something relaxing and not too strenuous like yoga. I mean, hey, I’m a college kid. I’m a little stressed for god’s sake! But early september I took a look at the type of food I was eating and realized I should probably get some exercise in if I wasn’t trying to buy a new wardrobe.
Bodyflow is a mix of tai chi, yoga and pilates. So essentially it’s a more intense form of yoga with great music to go with it. It’s not as intense as pilates (Or so I’ve heard from those who’ve done it), but its gets your blood pumping. I’m not so tired after that I can’t shower and then get some work done on my expos essay. Not to mention that, at least at the College Ave Gym, we have a hilarious and energetic instructor who makes you wanna keep going and try harder. That said, those who are fans of yoga and are maybe looking for something a little more intense, or even those who are athletic junkies and want to try something a little less intense some days, BodyFlow is probably for you! You can check it out Wednesdays from 8:00-8:50 at the College Ave Gym.
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Piyo
This class is described as a blend of yoga and pilates so the first time I went I expected it to be relatively slow movements through various poses. The reality was nothing like I expected. The main influences from yoga and pilates are the poses, but you move through them quickly and never really stop moving. There is a lot more movement than you might expect and the routines focus mostly on lower body strength. Everything is music driven which makes it easier to get timings right and makes the class more interesting. There’s also a bunch of different modifications you can make in case something is too easy or too hard to help you get the most out of your workout. If you’re looking for a class to help you work up a sweat and work on your strength, Piyo is definitely for you!
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Barre Sculpt
On any given Monday, Wednesday or Thursday you’ll find me in the College Ave gym trying to be fit by taking the only fitness class I love; Barre Sculpt. It’s an amazing cardio workout that I can’t get enough of. Half of the class takes place on a ballet barre (hence the name) and the other half is floor workouts. While doing workouts at a ballet barre might sound easy, I can assure you, you’ll definitely be getting a workout. At the barre we do all thigh and glute exercises (mostly pulsing up and down for several minutes at a time that make your legs feel like jello). But within seconds of being at the barre you can tell you’re working your muscles. Back on the floor we do abs, arms (with small weights) and more legs and glutes. By the cool down I’m exhausted but feel great knowing that I just had a fun time working out.