So Many Classes...

Zumba, CrossFit, Cycling, Bar Method, Kick Boxing, Pilates, Yoga, TRX, Boot Camp...it seems like there's a new way to workout every month.

Classes and small-group training provide an atmosphere that can be competitive, yet supportive. And, working out with friends and family can provide some distraction to make the session seem to go faster and even be fun.

Sounds like a good idea, but your next door neighbor swears by SoulCycle; your best friend loves LA Boxing; your co-worker won't stop talking about her pilates instructor.

How do you decide what's right the right class for you?

Ask yourself the following questions:

1)  What are your goals?  Your goals dictate what type of exercise you should be doing.

• If your goal is weight loss, you need to be lifting weights and working at high intensities — Boot Camp, Cycling Classes, Kick Boxing, TRX & CrossFit will all help you achieve your goals.
• If your goal is increased flexibility, you want to be doing things that work on stretching & lengthening your muscles — try yoga or pilates.

2) What do you think you would enjoy?  I realize that most likely, you're not going to LOVE working out. But, you don't have to hate it! With so many options, surely, you can find something that's not utterly distasteful?!

• Do you like dancing? Try Zumba.
• Do you want to release some serious steam (get out some aggression)? Try boxing.
• Are you looking for something more peaceful, something where you concentrate on yourself? Try yoga.

3) What level are you?

• If you're just starting your workout program, you need to start at a lower intensity and learn how to do basic exercises—CrossFit & Boot Camp aren't your best choices. You might want to work with a personal trainer to get your form perfected, and increase your strength & endurance before starting one of the higher intensity classes.
• If you've been working out a while, choose something that will challenge you.
• If you have past injuries/pain when working out, classes aren't the best choice for you—you want someone who will watch your form and design a program that will help you feel better, get stronger and avoid further injury.

Now that you have a starting point, it's important to keep in mind two important facts about whatever you choose:

1. Give it enough time to do something for you. If you still can't touch your toes after a week of yoga, don't give up! Give it at least a month.
2. Don't make it the only thing you do. You need to challenge your body in different ways. Taking spin class five days a week will help your cardiovascular health and strengthen your thighs, but it won't give you a well-rounded workout. I made this mistake for years—first, I ran and ran, the same course, at basically the same speed, almost every day. Then, I stopped running and started spinning 4-5 times a week. I got big thighs. It wasn't until I started lifting weights and mixing up what I was doing, that my body totally changed. Again, a personal trainer can help you with this.

So, try something new. Make sure it challenges and motivates you. And, enjoy your transformation :)