It's no longer just about lifting weights, running on a treadmill or joining an aerobics class at gyms in Stamford CT. Getting into shape can be fun.
The idea of working out has expanded to include fun activities that challenge you physically and keep you coming back for more of the fun. With gyms offering rock climbing, boxing and even Ultimate Fighting Championship workouts, you can enjoy new ways to stay in shape.
With nearly two dozen fitness centers/gyms in the Stamford CT area, there are plenty of choices to consider for that gym membership. It's not necessarily about giving up on the fundamentals of strength training with weights and cardio exercise on the elliptical. It's about adding more activities to your workout routine that can offer great exercise and make fitness fun again.
If you're just getting back into the gym, you can take advantage of instructors and coaches that most facilities offer to develop a safe and healthy fitness program for you. The goal is to get you back on track to a healthier lifestyle and here are some options to consider helping you expand that routine.
Stamford CT Area Gyms
The right gym for you depends on what type of physical activities you're interested in, what workout atmosphere you like and other convenience features that help you reach your fitness goals. Do you prefer a gym closer to the office for exercise right before or after work?
Do you want a fitness center closer to home that makes it convenient to get in a workout on a moment's notice? Is working out alone without the distraction of others more for you? Or do you like to join others in group classes as a way to keep you motivated.
You also may want to consider what features you're looking for in a fitness facility. Area gyms like Stamford JCC offer everything from the traditional free weights for strength training and body building to new fitness trends that give you a workout with fun activities like CrossFit and basketball.
Elevate your Workout at a Climbing Gym
One way to get your cardio exercise and increase body strength is to test your endurance at a climbing gym. With the fitness trend growing in popularity, the rock climbing gym offers members a safe and healthy way to get their workout by scaling a wall or simulated rocks.
Bouldering gym members are tethered securely to avoid injuring themselves while climbing. And the more experience you get, the bigger challenges you can tackle in your climbing routine. Most of these gyms also offer other fitness activities, like strengthening and cardio equipment to help keep you in shape.
Punch it Out at a Boxing Gym
Another alternative to the traditional workout is training at a boxing gym. You can learn skills of the sport with an instructor and get great exercise by sparring with friends and other members. The sport offers a safe way to improve stamina, strength and confidence.
The boxing gym historically has attracted mostly men, but more women are joining these days as a way to learn the sport and change their fitness routine.
This is something you may want to consider when deciding on a gym. There are punching bags and specific exercises designed to help you in the ring. But many of these gyms also offer other standard features you would expect, like free weights and cardio equipment to get you ready to compete.
UFC Gyms
Ultimate Fighting Championships aren't just for spectators. Now the sport is open to anyone who wants to participate at UFC gyms.
The concept stems from the popularity of the sport, which uses boxing, kicking and wrestling techniques as part of the workout, as well as some mixed martial arts that can be part of your personal routine. Members can develop a personalized fitness program with an instructor who can craft workouts that fit your goals and abilities, no matter if you are a beginner or an advanced competitor.
Best Option Among Gyms
There are other activities offered at gyms. Some focus on the intense workouts you'll find in gyms like Crossfit Stamford, which combines strengthening and cardio exercises in group classes that serve all levels of athletic abilities.
Some gyms provide fitness classes for members beyond the popular aerobics activities, like yoga, dance and meditation training. And there are fitness centers that feature athletic courses for you to enhance your workout with sports like basketball, squash and racquetball.
One of the best ways to work on strengthening and stamina is by swimming as a form of exercise. Some fitness center in Stamford have swimming pools large enough to allow members to add laps to their fitness routines. It's also a safe option that produces very little physical stress on the body and often is used in physical therapy for those recovering from injuries.
Another option being offered by many gyms is childcare. For moms and dads that find it difficult to squeeze a workout into their daily routine, some gyms offer the option of a safe play area for their children or even supervised activities. It's a great way to introduce your kids early to the idea of healthy habits that include exercise.
With so many options to get in shape at gyms, you can easily find one that fits your goals and lifestyle.