Why I Love High Energy Gym Classes

As I was driving home from Metafit on Friday morning, I had the idea to write this blog post.

Since starting to take healthy eating and fitness seriously, my first ever gym class was Metafit. It was late 2014 and I was so unfit. But I went to the class to give it a try. Despite being petrified, nervous and on my own. I was totally out of my depth but I somehow found the determination to show up.

I thought I was going to die after the class, seriously.

It hurt.

A LOT.

But, I dragged myself to the next, and the next, and before I knew it, the prospect of going actually excited me. Because I improved faster than I’d dreaded, and the benefits were (and still are) pretty much endless.

So here’s why I’m crazy and love high energy gym classes…

They Burn the Most Fat

Metafit is amazing for this. It’s a “metabolic workout” meaning it literally speeds up your metabolism. It’s a form of HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) which basically means it works on intervals; 25 seconds of intense activity, followed by 15 seconds ‘rest’ or ‘recovery’.

I get SO SWEATY and red in these classes, which is my body’s way of telling me it’s working!

As they make you exert energy in intense intervals, your body continues to burn calories for up to 24 hours after you’ve finished. Meaning the calories I consume over the weekend (always extra) come with a lot less guilt. IDEAL!

They’re the Shortest Classes

I’m usually in-and-out of a high energy class within 45 minutes, including the warm-up and cool down/stretches. Some classes are even as short as 30 minutes.

In my crazy schedule, this is absolutely key. I need a fast and effective, full-body workout that incorporates toning and cardio. And I want to leave the gym feeling like I’ve pushed myself beyond my comfort zone.

High energy classes are all about maximising your time at the gym. Exerting the most effort in the shortest time possible.

They’re also so intense that you don’t have time to clock-watch. The time literally flies past and it’s all over before you know it. Bonus!

They Have Changed My Body Shape

There is no denying since starting these classes, my body shape has changed drastically.

I can see teeny, tiny, mini abs forming in my upper abdomen. My legs have more definition. My booty is rounder. My bingo wings are tight and firm (and trust me, before this type of exercise they were so wobbly!)

These classes usually focus on all muscle groups in one session. So I attend two or three a week, and there I have a full body workout, all pre-planned for me by experts.

All I have to do is show up with the right energy, ready to smash it.

They’ve Boosted My Confidence

The team morale of classes, as opposed to slogging it solo in the gym, has boosted my confidence loads.

I now have no issues smashing out a 60-minute weight training session on my own. But classes are where I started. They proved I wasn’t the only one on a journey to get fitter. And despite being self-conscious, the group morale really spurs me on.

I’m also always pleasantly surprised at the mixture of ages and abilities in the classes. There’s a lady in Metafit who’s 67. And a man in Synergy who smoked for 30 years and decided he needs to get healthy. And an Italian lady who cycled from London to Paris, for charity.

No matter who turns up, the instructors ALWAYS offer alternative exercises based on ability. It’s an inclusive environment and nobody judges.

They Give Me MORE Energy!

I know you’ve heard this one before. But it’s true. I can’t stress this enough.

After working out I’m more productive and much happier.

I feel better within myself.

I have more of a positive attitude towards life.

I eat better.

I sleep better.

I could go on…

If you’ve not quite found your fitness mojo yet, FEAR NOT. I promise it’s inside you somewhere, waiting to be unleashed.

All you need to do is make a small commitment to whatever form of exercise appeals most. Then stick to it for a few weeks, have patience, and most of all don’t be too hard on yourself. Just have faith that you totally CAN do it and the results will start paying off in no time.👟❤️🔜🙌🏻