South Sound Workouts

Posted @ Nov. 30 2011 08:36AM by Holly - in-print

10 Best Workouts to Try

By Lauren Foster

Everyone can benefit from working out, but the trick is finding a workout that is perfect for you. If you’re stressed out, in need of a new physical challenge or just had a baby, we’ve found workouts for you. Sit back and relax knowing that tomorrow you’ll burn calories exactly how you want to. 

For the Outdoorsy Athlete

Climbing at Edgeworks
Maybe you’re not into pumping iron at the gym. For a more natural experience that you can apply to the outdoors, try climbing at Edgeworks. The cliffs may be artificial but the workout is anything but. Harness in and climb the 35-foot lead route for a fullbody workout that takes a strong grip and even stronger muscles. Or, if you’re not into heights, try bouldering. It may look like the training version of high climbing but it’s just as challenging. 6102 N. 9th St., Ste. 200, Tacoma, 253.564.4899

For the Friendly Fitnesser

Taiso Fitness
Taiso Fitness is all about sharing the workout experience with other classmates and the fitness professional to get the most fulfilling experience. Taiso Fitness gives clients personal attention as they work out in small groups of eight or less. As participants continue to train with the group, professionals track their progression to meet goals. To help bring people together they’ve created “tribes” for members with like interests to build relationships and work on goals. But no pressure, the tribes are not a requirement. 5104 6th Ave., Tacoma 253.223.6365

For the Dancer at Heart 

Zumba
If you’re looking for an alternative workout plan, Zumba routines combine interval training sessions and resistance training for a musical fitness experience. Dance around to fast and slow rhythms with specific choreography meant to strengthen the whole body. Show off your moves as you workout by dancing the hour away. Classes offered at many local gyms. Check out one near you!

For the Protective Pro

Leading Edge Kickboxing
Get fit while learning how to protect yourself. With techniques that have been taught to law enforcement officials and U.S. Military personnel, including Navy SEALS, you’ll get the training you need to feel safe and build your strength. Throwing a few punches, in this scenario, never hurt anybody. 810 SW 34th St., Ste. C, Renton, (located in Oakesdale Commerce Center) 425.656.2868

For the Injured Champ 

Low-Impact Swimming
It’s not a trendy workout but it’s one of the best. Work all your major muscle groups by practicing different strokes and treading water. If you have an injury, swimming is a great alternative to get your heart rate up and your muscles stretched without the harsh impact of other action sports.

For the Zen Baby

Postnatal Yoga
Postnatal Yoga is just as much about finding a calming way to workout as it is about developing the connection with your newborn and other new moms. Moms follow gentle warm-ups, baby massages and standing postures, sometimes holding the baby. Typically, participants begin six to eight weeks postpartum but it’s recommended that participants have a conversation with their doctor before signing up. Source Yoga, 2712 N. 21st St. Ste. A, Tacoma, 253.756.8066

For the New Moms

Stroller Strides
Power walking has never looked cuter. Stroller Strides is a global total fitness program that has settled in the South Sound. Participants push their strollers, stopping every few minutes for strength and body toning exercises. Stroller Strides is taught by certified instructors and is an easy way to meet new parents and babies and get some outdoor exercise. Tumwater Boys & Girls Club 600 Israel Road S.W., 360.570.8888

For the solo Trainee

Innovative Fitness
The personal trainers at Innovative Fitness in Fircrest don’t just tell you how to workout, they get to know who you are. Through working along side their clients, these personal trainers are just as committed to achieving your personal fitness goals as you are. It’s a program that combines body assessment, nutritional analysis and goal-specific exercise, customized specifically for you. Innovative Fitness 1105 Regents Blvd.Fircrest, 253.565.1965

For the Stressed Out 

Bikram Hot Yoga
If you need a workout to help settle your nerves after a long day of work, hot yoga is the perfect exercise. The intense workout that teaches balance and improves flexibility through 26 Hatha yoga poses in a sauna-like environment is both energizing and relaxing. Work the entire body for 90 minutes and feel the stress melt away. Hot Yoga Olympia 1963 4th Ave. E., Olympia 360.956.9642 and various locations.

For the Challenger

Crossfit
Crossfit is exactly what it sounds like, a cross between different fitness methods that makes for a full body workout. And when they say workout, they mean it. Trainers at Crossfit aren’t afraid to admit it’s hard. Crossfit doesn’t avoid technically difficult movements but rather dives into gymnastic skills, Olympic lifts, running techniques and climbing lessons to give participants challenging sessions that will push them into a new level of fitness. 411 Fawcett Ave., Tacoma 253.310.1940