With the new semester comes new opportunities for finding inspiration to get the mind and body of your dreams. These days there are so many smart and fun total-body exercises that will keep you striving for more. Try these fitness plans for a head-to-toe workout just in time for spring break!
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
What is it? HIIT alternates between fixed intervals of short intense activity bursts and less-intense or complete rest periods. For example, running at a high speed for one minute, then speed walking for two minutes and repeating the interval exercise five times for a 15-minute blast!
What are the benefits? HIIT is a perfect workout for a busy schedule and helps you reach your maximum efficiency in a minimal amount of time. According to “Shape” magazine, in addition to increased fat burning and higher muscle preservation, your metabolism continues to burn calories up to 24 hours after a HIIT workout. “HIIT training burns away the fat while still increasing muscular and cardiovascular endurance and strength,” said Zack Johnson, a fitness trainer and manager for the Rush Fitness Complex in Burlington, N.C.
Where can I do it? You can do it anywhere and no equipment is needed! Running, jumping jacks, high knees and push-up rotations are all great moves for your HIIT routine. DVD’s and online videos are also available to guide you through interval routines.
Pure Barre
What is it? Pure Barre uses a ballet barre to strengthen and stretch your hips, thighs, seat, abdominals and abs. It alternates between dancer-inspired athletic movements and stretching to target certain areas of your body and create overall tone.
What are the benefits? You burn calories, gain lean muscle mass and improve flexibility. The low-impact 45-minute to one-hour workout lifts, lengthens, and tones your entire body.
Where can I do it? Group classes are available at Pure Barre in Greensboro, Chapel Hill, and Durham. There are also workout videos online.
Hot Yoga
What is it? The original form of “Bikram” yoga and its variations are performed in a studio heated to about 105 degrees with about 40 percent humidity. This cardiovascular workout follows a set of sequenced poses and helps develop strength, flexibility and total-body tone. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after your class!
What are the benefits? Hot yoga works your mind, body and spirit. Practicing in a heated room elevates your heart rate and allows your muscles to relax so you can go safely into yoga postures. The routines help you practice focused breathing, aids in natural muscle healing and detoxifies your organs and glands as you sweat. “The way I feel after hot yoga is unbelievable. Your body can do amazing things without worrying about the wear and tear on the muscles,” said Bridget Creel, a group exercise instructor at Elon Campus Recreation.
Where can I do it? Hot yoga must be performed in a studio with the ability to safely increase temperature and humidity. Classes are offered locally at Om Shanti Yoga in Burlington, N.C.