Sweat It Out
These 3 classes are how Houstonians are sculpting their summer bods
Whether you're into Pilates, yoga, cycling, or group workouts, one of the major benefits of joining a gym is the classes. Much like how it's redefining the typical gym experience, The Preserve is also putting its own stamp on fitness classes.
In addition to boutique sessions — many classes are capped to help maintain an air of exclusivity — held in the studios on the second floor, a wide variety of group workouts are commonly held on the floor of the main-level gym.
Here we'll take a closer look at three of The Preserve's group fitness classes.
Fit Games
Who it's for: Kids at heart
Class length: 45 minutes
What you'll do: Remember recess? Get ready to run, jump, and play, all without realizing you're working out. The games change each time, and are partially determined by the preferences of the class members (instructors also adjust for shared specific goals and previous injuries). Competitive folks might duke it out to win a leapfrog tournament, or perhaps you'll challenge yourself to beat your previous best time crossing the monkey bars. When the weather's nice, The Preserve doubles down on the playground vibe by taking class outside to the garden.
The major benefits: Surprising your body with different moves challenges it to work harder, meaning you see results faster. And this one's a treat for your mind too — just let everyday stress melt away while you concentrate on having fun and making new friends.
Svelte
Who it's for: Those looking to prime their summer bodies
Class length: 45 minutes
What you'll do: Hop on the treadmill, but don't think you're in for a typical jog. The instructor will guide you through a workout that emphasizes keeping your heart rate elevated by using the treadmill's incline mixed with intervals of challenging blocks of resistance training.
The major benefits: You'll burn maximum calories in minimum time, meaning you'll be that much closer to achieving your summer bod. This class will also up your resting metabolism to burn more calories during the time after class for way longer than if you had simply done aerobic exercise.
MetCon
Who it's for: Those stuck on a workout plateau
Class length: 45 minutes
What you'll do: Metabolic conditioning is based around structured patterns of exercise. You'll go all-out for a small amount of time (think 45 seconds), followed by a little rest period, then repeat, repeat, repeat. Don't like a particular exercise? Don't worry — you'll be doing something entirely different in the next few minutes.
The major benefits: Short bursts of resistance training that focus on total body conditioning give you the lean look that's ideal for swimsuit season.
This is just a snapshot of the many, many different class options that The Preserve provides. Want to see them in action? Mark your calendar for the "sweat date" on March 22, when members and guests can sample three classes at once with sessions that introduce the benefits of each.
As an extra perk, right now all new members can also enjoy unlimited group Pilates for their first month of membership. Call The Preserve at 713-572-2555 or visit its website to find out more.