Tired of regular old fitness clubs? Maybe a focused group workout is just what your New Year’s resolution needs
You know the standard self-directed gym grind: Work your way around the equipment at your own pace, maybe consult with a trainer now and then. It works for many, but apparently not for everyone, judging by the number and variety of gym alternatives popping up in Las Vegas: group workouts, often focused on a single activity. Let’s do a circuit of the options out there!
Name: Orangetheory
What it is: A 60-minute workout that monitors your heart by wristband device while using rowing machines, free weights, and either a bike, treadmill, or strider.
How it works: The goal is to stay in the “orange zone,” where your heart is pumping at 84 percent of its maximum, for at least 12 minutes. Doing so, says founder Ellen Latham, keeps your body burning calories well after the workout is over. Your stats are displayed on a screen during class, but all levels are welcome. Your real competition, the coaches say, is yourself.
Need to know: First class free; monthly membership packages include four, eight, or unlimited classes
Contact: Seven Las Vegas Valley locations, orangetheoryfitness.com
Name: PureBarre
What it is: A 45 to 50-minute class inspired by ballet, yoga, and Pilates that pairs low-impact micromovements with light equipment and a barre.
How it works: By aiming for fast results. Although small, isometric movements may not sound challenging, barre works the whole body, muscle group by muscle group, to improve weight loss, flexibility, and build long, lean muscles.
Need to know: $79 for unlimited first month, $169 per month after; wear pants or leggings and a T-shirt or tank (no shorts) with sticky socks
Contact: Locations in Henderson and Downtown Summerlin, purebarre.com
Name: Cyclebar
What it is: A series of 45-minute indoor cycling classes ranging from classic and competitive to themed rides like Broadway Smash Hits and “Britney B$#*!”
How it works: Cycling is low-impact, good for your muscles, and great for your heart. This isn’t a stroll through the park, though, nor is it an old-fashioned stationary bike. Expect a high-intensity workout on an upright bike that leans, in a flashy Cycle Bar that plays energizing audio and videos.
Need to know: Drop-in classes for $35, packages starting at $99 for five rides, clip-in shoes included
Contact: 2280 Paseo Verde Parkway #160, henderson.cyclebar.com
Name: Raw Fitness
What it is: Hour-long small http://crossfit.com-group training and boot-camp classes geared toward weight-loss, strength-building, and camaraderie.
How it works: Raw Fitness says losing 20 pounds is easily doable during its 30-day weight-loss challenge. If you do, you get your money back, too. The high-intensity boot-camp classes vary day to day and include exercises such as running, pushups, burpees, and weight-lifting. For advanced clients, the studio offers weightlifting programs three days per week.
Need to know: First week free, monthly memberships available
Contact: Six valley locations, rawfitnesslv.com
Name: CrossFit
What it is: High-intensity, family-friendly workouts meant to develop strength and endurance through elements of gymnastics, weightlifting, running, rowing, and other activities.
How it works: CrossFit can challenge advanced athletes and be scaled back to suit beginners. The goal is improved performance over time — scores and times are kept on a whiteboard — and a perk is the community built between people who work out together.
Need to know: First classes are often free
Contact: Dozens of locations valleywide, crossfit.com