Fitness, but make it Fun
As the days get longer and temperatures start to rise, there’s excitement in the air with the promise that summer is just around the corner.
For some, fitness is a lifestyle, “a choice they make every morning” (an actual quote overheard from a hardcore gym goer). They can spring out of bed at 6 a.m. on a Saturday morning to run an absurd amount of kilometres, fueled by nothing but the kale inside their ‘pre-workout’ skinny juice - and honestly, all power to them! For others, fitness may be a bit of an afterthought or a casual encounter. There are a few strolls here and there, some achy legs from dancing until the weekend's wee hours and maybe the occasional bushwalk with their one overzealous friend. The lead-up to summer, with its more frequent beach visits and the wearing of fewer layers, is generally when fitness, or lack thereof, comes into sharp focus for everyone.
While some chomp at the bit to get started, eagerly making plans to drink plenty of electrolyte-infused water or shots of straight celery juice (don’t try that at home - or anywhere), others ponder trepidatiously on how they will get beyond the first step. All of the experts say consistency is key, and we know it’s much easier to stay consistent at something you have fun doing! So, we’ve found some ways you can get cracking on your fitness journey in a fun way. Even better, you can do them all super close to home!
Pole Dancing
There is nothing that delivers a full-body workout quite like pole dancing. Pole dancing has a complex and multifaceted history, with origins dating back to ancient civilisations. It was seen in travelling circuses right across the US in the 1920s and 1930s. The 70s/80s saw a transformation into more ‘adult’ performances with the emergence of burlesque and ‘club’ dancing. In the late 20th Century, a shift in perception recognised pole dancing as a legitimate form of exercise, leading to an explosion in popularity and the emergence of competitions and conventions worldwide. Pole Dancing is an art that needs to be mastered through regular practice, conditioning and strength-building over time. Luckily for you - Crows Nest has its very own studio - book in and try it out for yourself today.
Your local: PoleDance Academy - L3/28 Clarke Street, Crows Nest Classes $38 | Weekly class membership $35
Indoor Cycling
Indoor cycling has become increasingly popular over the past few years. With benefits like improved cardiovascular health, better endurance and effective calorie burning, it's no wonder so many people are hopping in the saddle. Not only are classes fun, you can really challenge yourself as well with workout options to accommodate people of all fitness levels, and ambitions! Everyone is welcome, whether you want to improve your performance, or just zone out and escape. If you love great music and surrounding yourself with a supportive community, this is probably the fitness activity for you! Thanks to our friends at CycleBar Crows Nest, you can grab a free ride at cyclebar.com.au and see for yourself!
Your local: CycleBar Crows Nest - L1/51 Willoughby Rd, Crows Nest Classes from $39 | Memberships available
Pilates
Is it Yoga? Is it Tai Chi? Pilates focuses on improving core strength, flexibility, balance, and body awareness. It was first developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, this fitness system emphasises precise movements, controlled breathing, and a holistic approach to physical well-being. But we’re talking about FS8 Pilates here, who want to bring less “Ommm” and more “Oomph”. Their classes mix the best elements of Pilates, toning and yoga for a full-body group training experience. There are over 30 workouts, and more than 3000 exercises combining Pilates reformer, mat work, dumbbells and activation bands. The FS8 Crows Nest space is gorgeous, and it’s all about community - new members always report feeling welcomed and comfortable as soon as they walk in the doors. At the moment, FS8 Crows Nest is offering 14 days of unlimited classes for only $49 - bargain!
Your local: FS8 Crows Nest - 123 Willoughby Rd, Crows Nest
Classes from $30 | 2 x Classes per week (membership) $39
Martial Arts
This ancient discipline includes a range of combat and self-defence techniques that have evolved over the centuries. Martial arts have a holistic approach to personal growth, teaching not only self-defence but also mental resilience, respect for others, and a strong sense of discipline. One of the most iconic figures in martial arts history, Bruce Lee, was able to emphasise its practicality and adaptability, leading to an explosion in popularity across the globe. Fortunately for 2065 residents, we have a local North Shore gym with more than 30 years training experience under their belt. These guys love nothing more than training, fitness and martial arts. They welcome (and encourage) all fitness levels and cater to each student individually, pushing you more out of your comfort zone each time. Head in for a no-obligation trial today.
Your local: Wyllie Martial Arts - 94 Penshurst St, Willoughby Classes from $20 | Class packs available