So, you’ve decided to switch up your workout routine. Maybe you’re tired of doing the same three exercises in the gym. Or perhaps you’ve noticed that your posture isn’t as great, or you’re not as strong as you used to be. Suffice it to say, the types of workouts you’ve been doing aren’t meeting your needs anymore.
But with an ever-growing list of new training styles and fitness classes, finding the right workout style can feel overwhelming. That’s why today we’re covering some of the core types of workouts and when you might want to incorporate them into your routine.
Why the Types of Workouts You Do Matter
There are tons of different types of workouts out there. Some people prefer cardio-rich Zumba classes, while others prefer heavy weightlifting. In fact, in 2020, the most popular fitness class on ClassPass was strength training.
Experts agree that any activity is better than no activity and that, in general, we should shoot for about 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day. However, if you’re looking to optimize your physical health, you’ll want a healthy mix of training that includes the following focuses: aerobic, strength, stretching, coordination, and balance.
Each of the different areas contributes to the overall functionality of your body. For example, aerobic exercise improves your heart health and circulatory system. Strength training focuses on improving your muscle mass and bone strength. And stretching, balance, and coordination allow your body to function with ease on day-to-day activities without pain.
So, which types of workouts are suitable for you? It depends on your goals.
Different Types of Workouts and Their Main Benefits
Like we mentioned before, there is a seemingly endless variety of workout trends, and every year new styles are added or faded out (who remembers Megaformer?). But in general, there are a few popular workout types that can offer unique benefits depending on your goal.
Here’s a shortlist of the most popular types of workouts and when you might want to try them out:
- Strength training through weightlifting or CrossFit can help improve your overall strength and safeguard against broken bones or sprains by strengthening your bones and supporting tendons and ligaments.
- Cardio training through running, HIIT, Zumba, or Spinning is a great way to improve your cardiovascular system and heart health.
- Calisthenics, Pilates, and many sports like tennis offer tons of benefits for your overall balance and coordination, as they typically include lots of functional movements you’ll find yourself doing in everyday life.
- And finally, yoga is a wonderful way to improve your balance and flexibility, which tends to decrease as you get older.
Discover New and Exciting Ways to Get in Shape at Cathedral Oaks Athletic Club
The only way to find the right type of exercise for you is to try something new! At Cathedral Oaks Athletic Club, we have daily fitness classes that span everything from yoga and Pilates to strength training and spin classes. That means you’re sure to find the perfect mix.
Check out our fitness class schedule and sign up for a class today!