Exercise is a crucial part of leading a healthy lifestyle, but sometimes the same old fitness routine can become rather dull. Running on treadmills like a hamster doesn't provide the same stimulation as a fitness class. Today at the gym, ditch the elliptical for an exercise class.Top Searched Fitness Classes on AOL:
1. Boxing class
2. Zumba
3. Yoga
4. Pilates
5. Martial Arts
6. Spinning
7. Belly dancing
8. Hip Hop Abs
9. Exercise Boot Camp
10. Capoeira class
Boxing, the top searched exercise class on our list, is the latest fitness craze to hit local gyms. In recent years, cardio boxing has become less associated with Mike Tyson and more connected to a strong, athletic physique. Some of Hollywood's hottest bodies, like Victoria's Secret model Marisa Miller, have attributed their svelte figure to boxing exercises. You don't have to step into the ring to burn major calories, although an hour in the ring can burn up to 1,000 calories. Sparring and practicing on the punching bag will also torch calories.
Ever since Billy Blanks began peddling his home Tae Bo tapes, exercise aficionados have learned the key to Jackie Chan's rock hard abs. Karate, Kung Fu, Tae Kwan Do and other martial arts (number 5) will not only get your blood pumping, but will also improve your focus and improve your balance.
If you are looking for a low impact exercise, yoga and pilates are your best bets. These relaxing exercise classes will engage your core (meaning abs) and build strong, lean muscles.
Wish you could train like the contestants on 'Biggest Loser?' Sign yourself up for an exercise boot camp class. This no-mercy class is the closest you can get to having trainer Jillian Michaels yelling in your air. Its not for the faint of heart, so get ready to burn a ton of calories with push ups, lunges, squats and other basic exercises. If you can't make it to the gym, check out Barry's Boot Camp and other exercise DVDs on our Top Searched Fitness DVDs list.
What is your favorite exercise class? Tell us what you like about it! You can find more fitness classes on AOL Search. Check with your local gym for a schedule. Visit our list of the Top Searched Gyms to find one near you.
More Offers: fitness equipment, stair climber, exercise treadmill, Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, diet tips
posted by Brittney
|
13
comments










COMMENTS
I lost thirty pounds in 2 months by exercising on the WII fit for thirty minutes a day. I also would eat the Eating Right Meals or Lean Crusine. I drank plenty of water mixed with Crystal Light. This worked for me and I am still losing weight. I can eat a hamburger once in a while but that has not stopped my procress.
By peaches on Jul 3rd 2009 at 9:33PM
I'm 72, workout 3days/week, this routine: 5 lifts with weights, slow lifts, max wt. to burn/failure, one set; then treadmill: 2 min.warm-up, then alternate 2 min. at 9%, 2 min. cool down, 2 min. at 15%, cool down, 2 at 18%, cool, 2 at 21%, cool, 2 at 24%. Increasing speed to 4 mi./min. at last. Go till it burns. This maintains weight and good muscle mass/bone density for my age. V. hard work; takes about 40 min.
By 3rtimearound on Jul 3rd 2009 at 5:36PM
I am a fitness instructor and have co designed a class on the treadmill. Don't underestimate the power of the treadmill! It burns up to 500 calories when done right. I also have started drinking a powerful drink that is so pure and wonderful amazing...I'm down to 123 from 131 without much effort at all. www.myefusjon.com/brdm
Acai ACai ACai!!
By donna on Jul 3rd 2009 at 5:49PM
I bought the Flexnimbo www.flexnimbo.com almost a month ago. Now this is a total body workout. It is advertised for athletes and it is the only resistance product I have found that I can wear and be under resistance at all times. I can jog outside in it, I can do my aerobic workouts in it, I can lift weight in it, I can even clean my house in it, all while being under total resistance. I have taken it on a business trip with me so I did not have to miss my workout routine. I dont need to hook it up to anything for it to work. I put it on and begin whatever routine I want to do. It is awesome!! I suggest anyone looking to become a better athlete or loose weight should invest in the Flexnimbo. I am glad I did
By carmen on Jul 3rd 2009 at 6:28PM
Top searched DVDs and P90X isnt one of them? Hmmmm...I find that hard to beleive.
By nbm2k2 on Jul 3rd 2009 at 6:59PM
Excercise along with diet is amazingly powerful .. I lost 70lbs doing both 3 years ago and have kept it off .. no gimmicks or pills .. I did it MY way.
http://www.wix.com/over40dietplan/DIET-PLAN
By Laura on Jul 3rd 2009 at 7:01PM
One of the easiest ways to look younger and better is to lose weight. Losing weight can make such a dramatic change in one's appearance. I know what it's like to try and lose weight. I lost 47 pounds in 6 weeks using the Rapidthin diet at www.rapidthin.com. Good luck to all. Use what works for you.
By samdrone on Jul 3rd 2009 at 8:47PM
ZUMBA IS THE BEST CLASS EVER!!
By MELISSA on Jul 3rd 2009 at 9:15PM
I was surprised to see that Tai Chi was not included in your list. Western studies continue you to confirm this low impact, most internal of the martial arts, benefits. It is stressed for seniors, but is of great benefit to younger people also. It reduces stress, builds bone density, increases cardiovascular functioning, lowers blood pressure and improves balance and stamina. I have been practicing Tai Chi for 35 years and teaching for 20. I have felt great benefits and seen the same in my students.
By Lynn on Jul 3rd 2009 at 9:43PM
I suggest P90X and Turbo JAm as far as videos. I would suggeat Turbo Kick for group classes at a local gym if you can find them. Billy's Boot Camp is a joke, I bought it and it sucks!!! Go for the new Chalene Extreme available at www. beachbody.com. A Pilates class is also very effective. Just as effective as Yoga.
By Alethea on Jul 3rd 2009 at 10:24PM
Most of you are advertising for something or other. Losing weight takes hard work and committment. Let me emphasize that there is NO MAGIC CURE. You work out, you watch what you eat and magically, the weight comes off. None of these stupid, and I mean stupid things you people are talking about help...it's all about hard work, discipline and patience. It took you a long time to get fat, it will take you a long time to lose the weight. Get real.Take responsibility.
By Randi on Jul 3rd 2009 at 10:46PM
WANT TO TRY HIP-HOP ABS? OR P90X? CONTACT ME - I'LL HELP YOU GET STARTED AND STAY CONNECTED WITH OTHERS ON THESE BEACHBODY PROGRAMS! WANT TO MAKE SOME MONEY WHILE WORKING OUT? ASK ME ABOUT BB'S CUSTOMER SHARING PROGRAM! http://teambeachbody.com/coachjanvary
By CoachCJ on Jul 3rd 2009 at 11:20PM
JAZZERCISE combines dance, kickboxing, yoga and pilates into one very fun and challenging workout. Class typically lasts an hour, and you will work! Careful, it's addicting....Find your class today - 1-800-FITISIT
By Angie on Jul 4th 2009 at 12:53PM