Des Moines: the trendy, hip, hot spot that is on everyone's radar these days. I mean, it's hard not to be on the radar when you are one of the top cities to work and live in, and raise a family.
Aside from Des Moines' impressive accomplishments of rising to the top over the past few years, it is a great place to get fit, too! From the endless options of gym memberships, hiking, biking and walking trails, you just can't go wrong with getting fit in Des Moines!
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With the beautiful, temperate summer climate we have, it's easy to get up and get moving outside. But for the days where you're looking for a good, tough workout in a great atmosphere, I have three great places for you!
By no means am I an employee, sponsor or advocate of any of these gyms — I am someone who has experienced and gone through the workouts at these locations.
1. Kosama.
Kosama has been my addiction for three solid years now. After my fist year in college, I needed to find something that was going to whip myself back in shape and get back on track. I tried to do something different, something that would push me to new levels that I never knew existed, and Kosama is that place.
Kosama is a group workout that focuses a great deal on muscle confusion, which is a huge component in weight loss! Each studio is designed to hold high intensity classes, but it is general enough for anyone at any fitness level.
Each day is different for workouts. You may have a cardio class one day, then kickboxing and kettle-bells the next.
All of the trainers are there to help you step by step reach your goals and make it a fun environment to work out in. Even the people who are members are wonderful! They are hardworking and push you to be your very best — after all, you are all there with a common goal in mind!
FYI: If you are a student in high school or college — SHOW YOUR STUDENT ID and you get a discount! You can also try out a session or even a week for free depending on the location.
2. Orange Theory Fitness.
About a year ago, I saw this place pop up not to far from my house, and I researched it a little bit to see what it was all about. Although I was already a member of Kosama at the time, I decided to wait for this summer to see what it was all about.
Also, I was a tad intimidated...
Orange Theory is very cardio focused. They use the science of Heart-Rate Based Treadmill Interval Training, indoor rowing as well as weight training blocks to help you reach your fitness and body goals! Some hour-long sessions can burn upwards of 600 calories, and after your workout you continue to burn fat for up to 36 hours!
I used my free trial this past week and sure enough, I bought myself a membership and I'm so glad I did. I have specific fitness goals in mind, so I thought why not try something new and add a little bit of mix into my workout!
I woke up that morning of my scheduled workout time and not going to lie, I was nervous and I didn't really want to go. I haven't worked out a whole lot since I was in Europe for three weeks, so I was afraid I wouldn't be able to push myself or be able to catch my breath!
I was wrong.
Everyone there was so welcoming, encouraging and kind. I reached my goals I set for myself before the class thanks to an encouraging instructor and my competitiveness making myself do things I probably shouldn't have on my second day back of working out after a three week hiatus. I burned up to 700 calories in my first session, I was drenched in sweat and I was amped for my next planned workout!
It was a great workout that really helps you challenge yourself in a group setting with trainers who are focused on helping you reach your maximum potential! Don't be afraid — I promise, it is worth it!
FYI: You can try a session for FREE by signing up online! Also, you might be sore for the next two to three days, BUT IT FEELS AMAZING.
3. Healthy Living Center: YMCA.
Ah, the coolest YMCA in Des Moines (in my opinion). So fun, modern and colorful and the members and employees fit the mold! Everyone there is amazing.
I have been a member of the healthy living center YMCA since I was a freshman in high school.
After tearing my ACL/MCL, I was directed to this gym by my surgeon to a physical therapist and sports trainer combo there. They helped me reach my goals in getting back to where I was before the ACL/MCL tear. They helped me understand the importance of strength and conditioning in sports. Although I knew it was important, they taught me what nobody had ever taught me.
Even after my physical therapy and sports training sessions ended, I still go there to work out whenever possible. They have state-of-the-art cardio machines, weight lifting area, an indoor track, pool, steam room and sauna and even ZUMBA, yoga, barre, cycling classes and so much more!
I love this place — it's a fun environment to work out in, and you feel so happy and positive whenever you step foot in this place. I highly recommend.
Although I may be biased, I have had nothing but great experiences with each of these gyms. I highly encourage you to check them out even if it's for the free session — it will help you get a feel for the gym and the types of workouts you can get from them.
I believe that it is important to switch things up in the gym because it allows you to be inspired and push yourself mentally and physically.
Don't be afraid to try something new because it could very well be your new favorite place to sweat!
