Exercise classes – what are they, what do they offer and more importantly what results can I expect? Along with the number of exercise facilities on the rise, we now have a plethora of Group Fitness Classes on offer. From Body Jam, to Sh’bam, to Zumba .. the list is long and the names imply that one needs to own a leotard and pair of leg warmers to participate. Not to mention the need for an exercise Thesaurus to decipher what each class actually means.

Hopefully this glossary will help by giving you background information to help you decide the right class for you...Generally speaking Group Fitness classes can be divided into four categories:
• Dance
• Cardio
• Resistance using Weights
• Yoga

Dance:
• Body Jam
• Sh’bam
• Zumba
• Group Groove
The dance based exercise classes are generally a fusion of dance and aerobic moves. Think ‘grape vine’ meets ‘the shimmy’! Whilst these types of classes are not too taxing on the cardiovascular system, they can be a fun and sociable way to exercise. Participants can expect dance styles ranging from Hip Hop to Latin to Jazz, all mixed to the latest chart topping music. Complexity = High.

Cardio:
A cardio workout targets the heart and lung muscles, and is designed to strengthen and improve efficiency of the cardio (heart) system. Examples are:
• RPM/Spinning/Group Ride
• Boxing/Boxfit/Body Combat
• Step/BodyStep
• Body Attack
Participants can expect to burn more calories in these cardio based classes than any others.These classes are at the higher end of energy and intensity and can vary in complexity.

The bike based classes (RPM, Spinning, Group Ride) are generally shorter (45 minutes) and don’t require too much coordination. These classes are a great option if you are wanting to burn lots of calories, but don’t want to spend too much time thinking about what the next move is! Complexity = Easy.

Boxing/Boxfit/Body Combat are non contact classes that combine the disciplines of Martial Arts, Karate and Boxing. Boxing based classes are great for upper body muscle definition, reducing stress and enhancing self confidence. Complexity = Medium.

Step/BodyStep classes use an adjustable height step to provide varying levels of intensity to your workout. Step classes are great for strengthening and shaping the lower body. Complexity = Medium.

Body Attack (Les Mills) is a high energy, athletic, full on cardio workout. Participants on average can burn up to 600 calories per class. Movements are simple but strong, you can expect to be pushed to your limit in this class. Complexity = Easy.

Resistance:
• Body Pump
• Group Power
• Sculpt
• Circuit
These classes are generally the most popular amongst gym members. With the use of weights (barbells, machines, dumbbells), attending these classes will strengthen and shape all the major muscles in your body. If you are looking to tone up and improve your body shape, this is the class for you.
Complexity = Easy.

Yoga:
• Yoga
• Pilates
• Bikram/Hot Yoga
• Body Balance
• Others
These classes are increasing in popularity and are suitable for all ages and fitness levels with the focus on building flexibility and strength. Not limited to the large scale exercise facilities, Yoga classes are becoming more accessible to everyday people, and can often be found available at your local community or church hall.

Yoga classes involve working through a series of held postures (called poses). Usually the same series of poses are repeated each class and classes can last from 60 to 90 minutes. Whilst there is a physical aspect to the classes, Yoga actually refers to the complete, holistic system for overall health and wellbeing. This includes diet, meditation, and relaxation.

Pilates is very similar to Yoga however the focus is more on the physical aspect of strengthening the core muscles in your body - abdominals, butt and lower back.

The choice between Yoga and Pilates depends on what you are looking for. If you want a class that improves flexibility while toning your muscles then Pilates is for you. If you are looking more to increase flexibility with a little less toning and want to focus more on the mind/body/spirit connection – Yoga may be more suitable.

Yoga classes performed in a heated room make up the Bikram/Hot Yoga market. Classes last for 90 minutes and participants work through a series of held poses. Although it can take a few classes to adjust to the heat (room is heated to between 34 – 38 degrees), participants do experience improved metabolism and stress management, and a reduction in common ailments such as back and joint pain.

Body Balance is a class offered by the Les Mills franchise and combines Yoga, Thai Chi and Pilates movements.

There are also many different styles of Yoga and you may have one of the following available to you:
• Hatha
• Ashtanga
• Vinyasa
• Iyengar
Click here for a really good guide on these varying styles and their differences.

Whatever class you decide to choose, the key factor will be enjoyment. Choose a class that you think you will have the most fun at – as ultimately, this is what will motivate you to turn up each time!

Artilce written by Sovita Corkin, Personal Trainer 
 

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