10 workouts to try this winter!
The cold weather might be keeping many of us indoors, but there are still plenty of fun ways to stay active and take care of your body.
Getting to the gym can be challenging on the best of days. Trying a new type of workout class can switch up your routine to make getting to the gym even easier! Check out our list of different workouts to inspire you to try something new.
Spin/Indoor Cycling
Indoor cycling, or spin classes, are a great way to increase your heart rate while enjoying a unique experience. Spin classes are high-intensity workouts that take place on a stationary bike. It is common for spin studios to feature high-energy music to complement the intense workout. Spinning has many benefits: it’s a low-impact exercise that burns a lot of calories and an opportunity to build a supportive community. It also offers the ability to make each class your own by adjusting the flywheel to your level – so don’t be afraid! Even fitness beginners are ready for this challenge.
Learn more about Spin here and here!
Barre
Barre is another excellent alternative to your typical gym session. A workout class that combines ballet-inspired moves with elements of Pilates, dance, Yoga and strength training, Barre uses a ballet barre to strengthen your core and tone your glutes using high reps of small-range movements. This is a full-body, low-impact workout that can also be modified to get your heart rate up!
Learn more about Barre here!
Kickboxing
Kickboxing is a form of martial arts derived from karate that uses hands and feet as contact points. Classes generally include strength training, cardio and high-intensity interval contact. Kickboxing is a great way to work up a sweat while having fun!
Learn more about Kickboxing here!
Zumba
If you love dancing and upbeat music, try Zumba! Zumba is a workout class that combines Latin and international music with dance moves to work up a sweat. Joining this workout class with your friends would only add to the fun. If there is no Zumba studio near you, many gyms also offer this type of workout.
Learn more about Zumba here!
Bootcamp with a local trainer
Joining a local boot camp is another great way to complete a workout while learning new techniques. A fitness boot camp is a group activity program designed to build strength and fitness through various exercises, but don’t worry—it’s not quite the military-style boot camp you have in mind. Joining a group with a friendly instructor and others with similar goals can help motivate you. Boot camps are often put on by gyms, or individual personal trainers will sometimes host them!
Instructor-led treadmill class
Looking to switch up your regular treadmill routine? Try an instructor-led class! These classes generally combine treadmill work with music. If you are looking to add HIIT (high-intensity interval training) to your workout, this is a great way to introduce it.
Learn more about treadmill classes here!
Rowing
Another workout class growing in popularity is instructor lead rowing! This full-body workout focuses on cardio and aerobic conditioning using an indoor rowing machine. It is another great class to complete in a group, with the potential to build a community with fellow rowers. It is also a great class to try in the winter when rowing on a lake or river is not an option. Classes that include HIIT-style workouts are also growing in popularity.
Learn more about Rowing here!
Aerial fitness
A fun way to work up a sweat is to complete a workout class a few feet off the ground! There are several variations of these classes, so there is likely one that will interest you. Different classes include antigravity yoga and aerial fitness work using hammocks, silks and hoops.
Learn more about Aerial Fitness here!
Pilates
Pilates is an exercise class focusing on core strength, flexibility and awareness. Its six guiding principles include centring, control, flow, breath, precision and concentration. Several methods are used for Pilates classes, including mat work or machines that use springs or body weight to create resistance.
Learn more about Pilates here!
Hot Yoga
Many people already enjoy yoga classes as a part of their fitness routine. Switching up your favourite class with hot Yoga could be a fun way to try something new! Hot yoga classes are similar to other types of Yoga, but they incorporate heated rooms with a temperature generally between 30 and 40 degrees Celcius. It helps keep your muscles warm and more flexible—which is especially great on a cold winter!
Learn more about Hot Yoga here!
Looking for a way to launch your own self-care journey? A Personal Health Plan from Saskatchewan Blue Cross offers coverage for health practitioners like massage therapists and chiropractors and can also provide coverage for vision, dental and prescription drugs.