The Word on Weightloss

Getting motivated enough to hit the gym several times a week is a constant struggle for many who want to loose weight and stick to their plan. Especially if you’re new to the gym routine, it may be even extra overwhelming getting to know the different machines and the proper way to use them. In addition, it’s important that any fitness regimen incorporate a variety of strength training as well as stretching and cardiovascular workouts in order to really make an impact on your weight loss plan.

There are many, MANY things to consider before you workout, and even that can cause frustration and a lack of motivation. So how do some people do it? Where do they find the desire and motivation to hit the gym two or even four times a week? More ofthen than not they’re probably enrolled in a group exercise class.

It hasn’t been too long that yoga, Pilaties and Spinning were new to most gyms, luckily for the novice gym-goer they've become a standard at most clubs. Exercise classes are a great way to learn the basics, challenge yourself to new ideas, and use the motivation of the class and the people to push yourself where you normally wouldn’t. Not only that, but classes are a great way to get to know the people and the gym and make friends who you enjoy seeing and getting to know.

It wasn’t long ago that I needed some motivation to my workout routine. I joined a gym with all kinds of fitness, yoga and even cycling classes but was too nervous to try any. I would look in the windows to see what the classes were like, but never set foot in them. Then as it was, I was planning out my week-long workout schedule and I had a prior engagement in the evening, after work when I typically go to the gym. I often have less motivation to get out of bed early to go to the gym, so I thought I’d see if there were any classes. As it turns out, there was a 5:30A.M. boot camp class on the morning I needed, so I though that I’d give it a try.

Would you believe me if I said that class changed my workout routine forever? Well, believe me because it really happened. Not only did I enjoy the workout, the motivation of the instructor and my other classmates set me over the edge. I loved the energy in the room when everyone was in sync and sweating it out together. You can always do ten more repetitions when everyone else in the class is doing them! The Wednesday morning boot camp class became my routine for more than 2 years. I woke up excited and full of energy every Wednesday at 4:45A.M.

So now the only question that remains should probably be, what class should I take? Most gyms offer a variety of different styles for every level, but here are a few that I’d suggest you look into.

 1. Zumba® http://www.zumba.com/us/
An aerobic group exercise program created by a Miami-based dancer Beto Perez that incorporates movements and steps based on salsa and merengue dance moves to create a fun workout for people at any fitness level.

2. Spinning® (or Cycling) http://www.spinning.com/
A high intensity cardiovascular workout that involves using a stationary exercise bicycle in a classroom setting. The class offers the latest cardio workout combined with great music and plenty of motivation.

3. Boot Camp
This no-nonsense, military-style workout emphasizes sprints, push-ups, abdominals, basic calisthenics, and weight training, making for a very intense class. It is guaranteed to create rapid body-changing results.

4. Body Pump
BODYPUMP™ is the original barbell class that strengthens your entire body. This 60-minute workout challenges all your major muscle groups by using the best weight-room exercises like squats, presses, lifts and curls. Great music, awesome instructors and your choice of weight inspire you to get the results you came for.

5. Kickboxing
Shape your upper body with actual in-the-ring combinations (i.e. jabs, hooks, uppercuts) as you work your legs with a series of kicks. Jump roping and abdominal work round out this class.