It might be the idea of being the center of attention for the day or knowing those photos will last forever. Either way, all brides want to look their best on their Big Day. So amidst all the wedding prep, many are adding new fitness goals to their to-do list.
Working out can be hard to fit in, so it’s easy to get into a routine and do the same workouts week after week. This is an exercise in diminishing returns. After every three to four weeks, your body gets used to the exercise you are doing and the gains you were getting from the workout decrease. For maximum efficacy, you actually need to change your workout after this timeframe, so about every month. A new routine shocks your muscles, which have to work harder to complete the exercises.
The best workouts are the ones where you are having so much fun that time flies and you forget you are working out at all. Do you think that sounds too good to be true? Maybe, but the ones highlighted below might just prove otherwise. Go on, try one, you’ve got nothing to lose, except maybe a pound or two.
City Surf Fitness
Rapidly spreading across the country, this workout combines strength training and cardio on a moving, stability-based surfboard. Classes are between 35 and 50 minutes long and promise to deliver a long, lean, confident surfer’s physique. citysurffitness.com
Awakening Dance and Fitness Studios
There’s no doubt that aerial yoga and pole dancing classes are fun activities to try but they also offer killer workouts. This facility receives rave reviews for a friendly staff and a welcoming environment. Instructors are recognized for their expertise and ability to break down moves to make them manageable for first timers. awakeningspolefitness.com
Champs Boxing
Leave your wedding stress on the bag at Champs Boxing! The facility has 28 HydroBlast bags -— filled with water instead of sand –— and are said to significantly reduce the impact on joints and hands. Classes are all boxing inspired and beginners to pros can all get a great workout within the hour classes. champsboxing.com
PFRX
Claiming to be more than a gym, this fitness center located near the Superdome is open 24/7/365. Trainers work with clients to develop a “wellness prescription” which includes personal training and digital coaching, nutrition and recovery advice. The initial free consultation includes a discussion on fitness goals, an InBody muscle analysis, and a strength test on each machine. primefitnessrx.com
I Love Kickboxing
Using kickboxing techniques, this gym in Gretna sets out to burn fat and tone muscle using methods used by professional fighters. The facility’s formula consists of a warm up with squats, lunges, burpees and more. Next, a stretching phase for when muscles are warm, followed by bag work and partner drills. The workout finishes with conditioning and a cool down. The website has an impressive collection of before and afters images to show some client’s results. ilovekickboxing.co
*This post originally published in the Summer 2019 issue of New Orleans Bride magazine.
