If this New Year really is going to bring about a new and improved me, it's time that I get crackin' on working out. Those 2 a.m. cookout nights are in the past now, and I'm going to prove my own insecurities wrong with a super hot spring break body. While this may sound ideal, finding the motivation to exercise is a struggle that is excruciatingly real. In fact, a lack of motivation is often the reason why we refrain from working out at all. To increase drive in the pursuit of toned fabulousness, there are certain workouts that will motivate you through the different types of mood swings you might endure.
1. For When You're Pumped Up: Zumba Class!
Designed as a fun, social, synchronized dance party, Zumba classes are high energy and exciting. It is said that the average participant of a Zumba class will burn anywhere from 600 to 1,000 calories per class, so get hype and get your groove on!
2. For When You're Lazy: Step Aerobics Class!
Step aerobics are perfect for those days when that you're feeling sluggish and as if you can't get out of bed, because they start out slow and gradually "step" up the pace. These choreographed classes incorporate a raised platform that one can step on and off of in rigorous movement. Once you develop your own rhythm throughout the class, you are guaranteed to gain more energy over the course of the time you spend in there.
3. For When You're Angry: Kickboxing!
This might seem evident, but there's nothing more cathartic than kicking the crap out of a big red punching bag when you're in an angry mood. No matter what your problems might entail, kickboxing classes will allow you to beat them all away in a healthy, safe fashion. The best part is, you're building up muscle and letting that fat slip away!
4. For When You're Stressed: Spin Class!
Whether you're a SoulCycle, Flywheel, or classic Spin class person, this intense cycling session is going to be one of the best you've ever experienced. When all you can think about is the fact that you're going broke, the barista at Starbucks that still hasn't asked for your number, and your 12 page research paper is due tomorrow, take an hour out of your time and head on over to Spin class. Once the music is bumpin' and you're jumping up that imaginary hill, endorphins will swallow up that anxiety and leave you temporarily stress-free.
5. For When You Feel Gross: Pilates Class!
Ah, my personal favorite. There is a common misconception that both Pilates and Yoga are interchangeable, but that is completely false! Famously known for elongating the body and sculpting our abs, Pilates was originally created as a fairly intense movement to strengthen and align the bodies of gymnasts and dancers. Since then, it has evolved into workouts that consist of various techniques that can be performed with or without machinery. Not only will you feel a newfound flexibility and your muscles tighten, you'll be running home to try on that bodycon midi dress that's been sitting in the back of your closet.
6. For When You Just Can't Even: Barre Class!
Are you so sick of the pretentious brat in your lab group or at the lack of regard your neighbors have for noise control? It sounds like you just can't even, so grab your water bottle and sign up for your next Barre class. Participating in Barre workouts is the perfect way to forget about the obnoxious aspects of life and to hold, push, and stretch to perfection on that almighty barre. Barre workouts aid in concentration, core strength, and endurance, which will allow you to shed the pounds and the jerks away.
