The summer months provide the perfect opportunity to set new health and wellness goals and the time to achieve them. This could include trying out a new fitness class or two. I have tried some of the most popular courses in the LA area and here are my top suggestions.
CorePower Yoga offers a variety of classes, some perfect for newcomers and others fit for more experienced yogis. For new clients, they have the option of a free week with unlimited classes, so you can see if it is a fit for you. Their popular “yoga sculpt” class is a 60-minute heated practice with weights. Clients can expect to sweat it out to loud music during this full-body workout, but relax at the end with a stretching and shavasana segment to close out the session. In addition to yoga sculpt, CorePower offers more traditional yoga practices, such as C2 and Hot Power Fusion, which are weightless and cardio-less. A CorePower membership could be worth considering if you want a variety of classes. From the high-intensity yoga sculpt class to the peaceful, mentally challenging hot power fusion course, there is something for everyone.
Solidcore has taken off on social media in recent months, with many claiming it is the hardest workout class they have tried. This is a sentiment I certainly experienced. Solidcore classes take place in a low-lit room on a megaformer, with EDM music to keep you motivated. During the 50-minute class, the instructor will emphasize slow movement while encouraging you to reach second-stage muscle failure. The springs on the reformer will be personalized, complementing the number of classes you have completed. For those seeking a low-impact exercise that will leave your core muscles sore for days, solidcore could be a perfect fit. There are many locations in the LA area, but the environment stays consistent regardless of the specific studio.
Mighty Pilates offers a more traditional Pilates experience. While the class difficulty varies greatly depending on the instructor, it is a perfect place to start for those new to Pilates. They have two studio locations in Los Angeles, one in Santa Monica and the other in Westwood. This convenient location is perfect for UCLA students looking for a Pilates studio within walking distance from campus. The Westwood studio offers private lessons for those seeking a personalized experience to perfect their technique. Their classic class, called “Re:Form”, targets all areas of the body, and they offer “Re:Form Plus” for more advanced Pilates-goers. For those new to Pilates, Mighty Foundations is a perfect introductory course to understand the technique and associated terminology.
For those drawn to cycling, SoulCycle provides the perfect, community-based environment to try it out. The classes are cardio-based and really work your legs. You are surrounded by other cyclists in a dimly lit room. The encouraging instructors push you mentally and physically to become the best version of yourself. The classes mix quick sprints with high-resistance hill climbs to give the cycling segments variety. An arms section with dumbbell weights will give your upper body a workout as well. They have studios all around Los Angeles. The Brentwood location is convenient for UCLA students, just a quick car ride away.
Los Angeles is home to a plethora of fitness classes, each promoting their unique take on wellness and physical activity. Exploring them can make for a fun summer activity, as well as a great way to meet new people along the way. If you find yourself with extra time on your hands in these coming months, or the desire to try something new, swing by CorePower, Solidcore, Mighty Pilates or SoulCycle to sweat out your summer boredom.
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Featured Image via Adobe Stock
