Weekend workout: Interactive gyms are becoming the new nightclubs

Looking to unwind from pressure-cooker offices and make social connections after a stressful week of work, many people hit the local bars and nightclubs for some fun and relaxation. But being immersed in secondhand smoke fumes and dealing with hangovers does not attract health-conscious people. Now there is an innovative way to get out and about on the weekends and maintain health at the same time. For fitness-minded people, the healthy trend is to hit the gym instead of the local bar. But not just a run-of-the-mill gym. Interactive gyms are the popular places to see and be seen on the weekend evenings in places like New York City. And they promote one of the best natural cures out there, which is exercise.

So many trends like those promoting the latest fashions, pop music groups, or junk food come and go before you even have a chance to blink. Let’s be totally honest with ourselves and admit that many cultural trends are also ridiculous. But along comes a trend that actually makes sense: innovative gyms that magnetize people to get involved with exercise in a relaxed, fun environment that also encourages healthy social connections. In New York City, interactive gyms with catchy names like Barry’s Bootcamp, SoulCycle, and Overthrow Boxing Club are helping people keep up with their New Year’s resolutions to exercise more and be less sedentary.

Various exercise types providing unique benefits

There is no one-size-fits-all theme that pervades the various nightclub-style gyms. Some offer high-intensity interval training with a powerful cardio kick, with those workouts including squats, bicycle kicks and jumping jacks. Others offer boxing-style regimens. So fitness enthusiasts can select the gyms that best suit their preferences.

Although many people like to stop by the gym in the morning before work or take walks during midday breaks, working out in the evening provides some distinct benefits. For example, testosterone is higher later in the day, so those who exercise at that time of day can more easily build muscle and have more strength to work out with increased vigor. This is true for both men and women, given that both have testosterone in their bodies. Then there are the stress-relieving benefits that come from exercising after a hectic workday and being able to let go of the day’s and week’s intensity. So the nightclub-style gyms in New York City are maximizing all of those benefits. (Stay informed about fitness for men at MensFitnessFocus.com or explore women’s fitness at WomensFitnessFocus.com.)

Music to entertain and keep up motivation

A key aspect that attracts people to these trendy New York City gyms is the music emitting from the speakers in the nightclub-like atmosphere that’s complete with red lights. Some clubs have DJs spinning the latest hits or music from Broadway shows while others offer throwback fun with music by NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys. As the song lyrics proclaim, “Backstreet’s back, alright” – and the boy band’s music is keeping right up with the latest trend. For other musical preferences, some of the gyms play classic rock or current hit makers like Beyonce. Many exercise enthusiasts find that exercising to their favorite songs motivates them to keep going with their workouts.

Because New York City is such a trendsetter, it won’t be surprising to see interactive gyms popping up in other areas of the country. Whether you jump on the latest fitness trend or move to the beat of your own style, the main thing is just to keep moving. Staying active and engaging in regular exercise provides profound health benefits, including weight loss, both at the local trendy gym and while taking a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood.

Sources:

NewYorkPost.com

Self.com

Shape.com

PSFK.com