The top new year’s resolutions often are maintaining a healthy lifestyle and adopting a regular gym schedule. But typically, around February, once-strong resolutions wane, and the gym trainers and instructors likely write us off as part of the New Year’s gym-flake masses. If that sounds like you, there are classes out there that keep fitness interesting and might just motivate you to prove those gym rats wrong.
Dance, as a workout, has many health benefits. Dancing can improve the condition of your heart, lungs and muscular strength and it helps with weight management. Dance workouts can be an alternative to using gym machines, because it works out your entire body at once. Plus, you don’t have to stick to the Zumba classes of old.
Kazaxe has the feel of a night club and it incorporates Latin music and moves. Although this is an intense workout, it’s lively and fun to keep you coming back. // 6728 Industrial Road, Springfield
Pole dancing might seem intimidating, but there are many positive benefits. Not only is it a core and cardio workout, but it also helps with self-confidence. Pole Pressure offers classes for all levels, including sessions that focus on deep stretch and flexibility and pilates for pole dancers. // 14414 Jefferson Davis Highway, Woodbridge
Yoga has become a go-to workout for it physical and mental benefits. It helps with flexibility, increases muscle strength and tone and helps reduce stress. Just like all trends, it has grown and split off into divergent, niche styles.
Really, is there better motivation than beer? Port City Brewing Company teams up with abellaYoga for BeerYoga classes every Tuesday. (The next one is Feb. 28 at 7 p.m.) For $20, you can get in your yoga class and reward yourself afterward with a pint. // 3950 Wheeler Ave., Alexandria
If you’re a somewhat experienced yogi, then it’s time to take your fitness to new heights. You can try aerial yoga, which employs a hammock suspended from the ceiling for elevated poses. You can find classes at Spark Yoga in Arlington and Fairfax. // Spark Yoga Arlington: 2201 N. Pershing Drive, Arlington; Spark Yoga Mosaic: 2987 District Ave. #120, Fairfax
Or, channel your inner child during a hula hoop class at PIES Fitness Yoga Studio. Hula hoop blends pilates, barre and yoga for one body-sculpting workout. // 374 S. Pickett St., Alexandria
