Take a Fitness Class on St. Croix
Looking to change up your fitness routine? St. Croix offers a variety of different fitness classes for all ages and fitness levels. From high-intensity CrossFit classes, to flexibility increasing barre classes, there is something for everyone. Try a new type fitness class to get yourself inspired to get back into shape, or mix in a new type of class to vary your existing fitness regimen. Here at GoToStCroix.com, we have found several different classes here on the island that are taking the world by storm, so you may want to give them a try.
On St. Croix, Studio 360 functional training is their focus. Functional training is a type of exercise that trains your body for the activities performed in daily life. When applied properly, functional training can make everyday activities easier, reduce your risk of injury and improve your quality of life. Their MoveStrong FUNctional training NovaXL apparatus is a big playground for the kid in everyone. Mostly using your own body weight, you can work through a variety of movements that will push your strength gains to a new level. Some of Studio 360’s popular classes include Boxing and Gravity. The Boxing classes offer high-intensity interval training utilizing jump ropes, kettlebells, & 100-pound heavy bags to sculpt your entire body and burns calories. Gravity classes deliver a total-body workout including cardio, strength training, and stretching that engage, strengthen, and tone all major muscle groups. Personal training is also available is also available.
If you are looking for a way to get a great workout while getting in some stretching (and a little Zen time), you may want to consider taking a barre class at The Courtyard. Barre classes use a combination of postures inspired by ballet, yoga and Pilates. The barre is used as a prop to balance while doing exercises that focus on isometric strength training (holding your body still while you contract a specific set of muscles) combined with high reps of small range-of-motion movements. Barre classes also often incorporate light handheld weights to increase the burn during all those reps, as well as using yoga mats for targeted core work. The beauty of barre classes are the benefits which include weight loss, improved posture, increased muscle definition, increased flexibility and reduced stress. Barre classes are great for just about any fitness level because the technique was designed so that the positions and movements are basic, it’s how deep you work in them that makes the difference in the intensity.
Looking for a fun way to workout? Zumba is essentially a Latin-inspired cardio-dance workout that uses music and choreographed steps to form a fitness party atmosphere. While many of the types of dance and music featured in the program are Latin American inspired, classes can also contain everything from jazz to African beats to country to hip-hop and pop. It’s know as a workout for anyone who can stand up and dance (and I use the term ‘dance’ very loosely), no dance experience or skills are necessary. People of all ages, shapes and sizes are welcome and encouraged to attend classes. Here on the island, you can even take Zumba in the pool, so you can keep cool while you dance your way to fitness! Find a Zumba class, and a variety of other fitness class options, at Beeston Hill Health and Wellness.
In addition to the classes described above, you can find some of the more traditional or well known fitness classes like pilates, body sculpting, yoga, boxing, and water aerobics. There is a fitness class for everyone out there, you just have to find the one that fits you. Remember to dress appropriately for the classes you choose, and drink plenty of water before and after to stay hydrated. I recommend taking a friend with you to make the experience more fun, and so that you have someone to help you keep up your fitness routine and stay motivated. Most importantly, enjoy the feeling of accomplishment that comes after completing a great workout. You’ve earned it!
– Jennie Ogden, Editor
