You’re probably thinking, what is BodyPump? I had the same thought about a year ago before taking my first class. I had never taken a group fitness class before (don’t click away, group fitness class haters), and even the name of the class sounded daunting. I decided to go to a class by myself and fell in love with it! So many aspects of a BodyPump class pulled me in such as the predictability of each class, being able to customize the weights you use, and it just feels good! I used to hate the idea of group fitness classes, but this kind of workout leaves me feeling strong and satisfied.
So what is BodyPump?
BodyPump is a 45 to 60-minute barbell-based weight training program with amazing, qualified instructors. The main draw of this kind of workout is that it utilizes low weights and high repetition to build your strength while increasing your heart rate.
Here are just three of the reasons why you should take your first BodyPump class:
BodyPump is predictable:
BodyPump has a specific routine that every certified instructor follows. There will always be a squat track, a chest track, and a lunge track. When I first started taking classes, I had no prior knowledge of BodyPump but was able to pick up on the verbal cues and movements considerably quickly. Instructors will also sometimes stick to the same routine for a few weeks before switching up some of the tracks, so you’ll be able to get comfortable with the entire routine before potential changes in the class.
The classes are customizable:
As I mentioned before, BodyPump incorporates barbells and weight plates into the workout. The great thing about these items is that you can choose from various plate sizes and adjust the weight you use for the class based on how much you want to challenge yourself. The class offers small (2.2 lbs), medium(5.5 lbs), and large(11 lbs) plates, and you can fit up to six plates on a bar. That’s up to 66lbs on a barbell! I suggest beginners start with a single small or medium plate on each side to get used to the movements. The great thing about the variation of the weights is there is so much room to grow. If the barbells aren’t for you, using your body weight is also acceptable. Do whatever works for you and what makes you feel strong!
Exercising improves confidence and mental health:
This usually goes for any kind of exercise, but BodyPump has been extremely beneficial for my mental health. I would go to the gym every so often, intending to use weight machines or a treadmill, but I wasn’t always the most confident in that space. BodyPump is for people of all abilities and experience levels, and every instructor I’ve interacted with has created a fantastic, accepting space.
I hope I’ve convinced you to give BodyPump a try! Group exercise classes can be intimidating at first, but I’ve found it to be comforting to be surrounded by people doing the same workout as me, as opposed to a traditional gym. If I ever feel silly doing a specific movement I can look around and see about a dozen other people doing the same exact thing. It feels like more of an experience than a workout, and it’s a great class to take with friends. I invited a friend last semester to take a BodyPump class with me and we ended up becoming a lot closer because of the time we shared there.
There’s no negative to trying BodyPump, and you may just fall in love with it. Rutgers Recreation centers offer BodyPump classes to all Rutgers students multiple times a week, so just give it a try and have fun!
Here’s a link to see when Rutgers Rec centers offer classes: http://recreation.rutgers.edu/fitness-and-wellness-class-schedules/