Going to the gym can be relaxing and even fun for some people… but what if you hate it? Moving your body doesn’t have to mean lifting heavy weights or running on a treadmill. Whether you’re doing it for fun, health, a weight loss journey, or your mental well-being, there are so many ways to stay active.
As the year wraps up and we start reflecting on all those goals we set last January, the ones we swore we’d stick to, I can confidently say that working out more consistently was at the top of my list. This year, though, I decided to stop forcing it and instead found fun alternatives that made movement something I looked forward to.
I’ve tried so many different workout styles this year, and these are my four favorite ones. So, whether you’re looking for activities that get you off campus for a little escape or something you can easily do nearby, I’ve got you covered.
- pilates
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Pilates is the moment now, so let’s talk about it. Pilates workouts focus on core strength, muscle control, flexibility, and posture by performing controlled movements. It’s a low-impact workout that’s great for beginners, those recovering from injuries, and stressed or anxious individuals.
It’s a great way to tone your body, strengthen the core, and promote breathing and concentration. Many people take the FSU Leach Center group Pilates classes. There are many studios in Tallahassee, but doing some research on the different types of Pilates classes helped me, as some of them are more power and cardio focused.
I also heard that Pilates girls always have the cutest sets, so if you’re looking for an excuse to get some new workout gear, there it is!
- spin classes
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Spin is such a fun fitness class. It’s a cardio-based workout, but it also targets the lower body, especially during strength workouts, helping to build muscle. It’s a low-impact cardio class that can be great for beginners since you follow your own pace, and it has other stimuli like music and lights.
There are many spin studios in Tallahassee, but the Leach offers classes free of charge for students, and they have a very flexible schedule.
I’ve taken several spin classes at the Leach, and the vibes are always amazing. If you know me, I’ve probably invited you to take a spin class with me there. It’s such a judgment-free zone and truly a space where you can make friends.
A little tip is that most of the instructors have what they call ‘spinstas’ (spin Instagrams) where they share their class themes before the classes. If their theme is Glee or Taylor Swift, you’ll find me there.
- barre
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Barre classes are a great way to sculpt and tone your body through a low-impact workout! It’s inspired by ballet and combines elements of Pilates and yoga. It uses small, isolated movements to target muscles, and it helps a lot with flexibility. Workouts are high-intensity and target the whole body.
Barre makes me feel so elegant, yet it’s such a great way to get strong without risking injuring myself. Pure Barre is a great studio in the Tallahassee area, but the Leach also offers barre classes.
- Hiit
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High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is perfect if you’re the type of person who likes to give their everything in a workout. HIIT workouts are a mixture of cardio and weightlifting and usually have short bursts of intense activity, perfect to keep your heart rate in the high-intensity zone.
Some gyms that incorporate HIIT workouts in Tallahassee are OrangeTheory Fitness and Top Dog Fitness. I love these heavier workouts because I feel so accomplished and happy afterward.
I know working out and trying a class out for the first time can be intimidating, but no one more accomplished than you will judge you for trying. They were also beginners at some point.
Some days are busier than others, but moving your body is something you can do for yourself to not only improve your physical and mental energy but also as an act of self-care.
Whether working out is your thing or not, going to the sauna, the jacuzzi, getting a smoothie, a new workout set, or a treat after a week (or day) of movement can be used to keep yourself accountable and excited. Also, make sure to check on student discounts because most gyms offer those!
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