No Pain, More Gain

I started working out on a consistent basis (one hour, 4-5 times a week) about a year and a half ago.  I would do 30 minutes of cardio on the Precor machine followed by half an hour of weight training/abs/stretches. Although working out has been fully absorbed into my day-to-day life, and I feel absolutely gross when I go more than two days without breaking a sweat, I'm constantly finding ways to jazz up the routine.  This past spring, I was really into hiking and biking but now that the sun is full blast, I just can't tolerate exposing my skin to the harsh rays as I have been indoctrinated with the very Chinese belief that pale skin is desirable.  In the summer, you'll usually find me traversing around LA with my Darth Vader visor (See Exhibit A for example. Lady in picture not me).

But, I digress.  This summer, I've been trying out a couple of different classes at my gym and at nearby studios.  It's nice to know an entire class is sharing your pain!

Pop Physique:  I bought a trial package of three classes from one of the daily email discount companies.  The studios are located in Silverlake, Studio City and West LA.  The decor is modern and functional and class size is small (limited to 12-15 people).  The one hour classes focus on working out every single muscle group, through the incorporation of light weights, cardio barre, resistance techniques and deep stretching.  After my first class, my knees were noodling and I felt utterly exhausted, but rejuvenated at the same time.  Sweating was minimal, and calorie burn is significant and long-lasting.  

Yoga:  I've been taking yoga classes for quite some time now and although the classes are low impact, I do attain mental and emotional calm after a class.  More so than getting fit, I think yoga is a state of mind and promotes a healthy lifestyle.  Although a rarity, I love going to classes after work as it helps to de-clutter and detox my mind and body.  For people who want to use yoga as a weight loss tool, I recommend Bikram and Ashtanga!

Zumba: Classes combine synchronized dance movements with aerobic fitness interval training.  I take the class at my local 24 hour fitness and it's a sweat drenching, heart pounding hour! I'm moving and dancing the entire time and really feel the calories melting off.  The environment is lively, which makes it a fun class.  You don't really need any rhythm or dance training to enjoy it as most  people are just wiggling their butts and having a good time.