5 workouts to try this winter

Posted on 12 August, 2015

Is it just me, or does this winter seem to be stretching out for an eternity? When it’s icy outside, the last thing you want to do is leave the warmth of your doona for a morning workout, and it’s very temping to skip the gym after work for a snuggle on the coach with a hot bowl of something comforting.

What’s a chilly Canberra lass to do?

I have serious respect for the courageous ladies who make it for outdoor bootcamps and frosty runs around the lake; however, for those who are a bit hesitant to brave the cold, it’s nice to have some workout options outside of just the standard gym session. Here are five new fitness activities to try to get you through to the warmer months and beyond.

Functional Training

F45 Functional Training.

F45 has a reputation for being pretty hardcore, and for good reason. I’ve tried classes in Belconnen and Phillip and I have to say, I found them really challenging – in the best possible way!

Basically, F45 is high intensity interval training (HIIT), with classes that focus on cardio, strength or both. There’s circuits with lot of different stations where you’ll perform different exercises for 45 seconds, with a 15 second break.

It’s really easy to follow because not only are there screens which show you how to perform the movements at each station, but there are also at least 2 trainers who move around the room and will give you a hand where required – especially if you’re a newbie.

There’s a real team environment – classes tend to get booked out because F45 is so popular. While you’ll be working out with lots of people, you’ll have plenty of room to move at each designated station. You never get the feeling you’re being watched (except by the trainers) because everyone is so focussed on their own workout.

Don’t let the challenge put you off – each exercise can be modified to your fitness level using different weights or less resistance/speed so it’s really suitable for all levels but will definitely push you to your limits. It’s a really effective way to burn lots of calories so if you’re looking to drop weight or just increase your overall fitness, F45 is an excellent choice. Plus, I found the trainers to be lovely and really supportive. Even when I had to sit out for a few minutes during a session at Phillip to catch my breath, the instructors were really helpful and non-judgemental, but still encouraged me the whole way through. I’ll definitely be back for another visit!

the essentials

What: F45 Training
Where: Five locations around Canberra. Find your nearest centre.
When: Classes run throughout the week, check the website for timetable.
How much: Contact F45 for membership options
Web: f45training.com.au

Belly Dancing

Ghawazee Moon. Photo Credit: Stephen Kaak.

When I spoke to Samina Amar, the owner of Ghawazee Moon, she said something very memorable: “we focus on what your body can do, rather than what your body looks like.”

Belly dancing is such a fabulous way to exercise and move your body. Not only does it make you feel really sexy and have lots of fun, but it’s a great way to get to know your body and increase your confidence.

Not to mention, it’s a sure fire way to meet some likeminded ladies. Ghawazee Moon is a great way to socialise, with services that extend far beyond just classes, including workshops, performances, crafternoons, sewing and get togethers where you can mix and mingle.

If you’d like to try bellydancing, Ghawazee Moon offer classes in Gungahlin, Melba and Civic and cater for all abilities and ages from three and up, so it’s perfect for little and big girls alike. There’s a range of different belly dancing styles on offer, including Ghawazee (Egyptian Gypsy), Folkloric, Folk Orientale, Classical, Urban Folk and Folkloric Fusion.

Ghawazee Moon pride themselves on encouraging creative development, building self-esteem, promoting a healthy body image and teaching age appropriate movement. Feeling good, moving your body, having fun and making friends – what’s not to love?

the essentials

What: Ghawazee Moon Belly Dancing
Where: Gungahlin Community Centre, The Loft in Civic and Nellie Hall in Melba.
When: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
How much: Children’s classes from $95/term, adults from $150/term
Web: www.ghawazeemoon.com.au

Swimming

The indoor heated pool at Next Gen Canberra. Available for members’ use only.

Swimming shouldn’t just be saved for summer – winter is actually a great time to go because there’s often less people, the water is warm and it’s obviously a great way to maintain cardiovascular fitness.

While the outdoor pools may be closed in the off season, there are some really good quality indoor pools around Canberra (see ‘the essentials’ for some suggestions).

Swimming has so many benefits – it’s low impact so there’s less strain on your joints, it’s good for your lungs, and it builds endurance and lean muscle. It’s also really good to do between workouts as a bit of active recovery.

There are normally lanes marked depending on speed so whether you’re a slow and steady breaststroke fan or a frenzied freestyler, you’re sure to find a spot. If you don’t know how to swim, there are adult lessons offered at most swimming pools where you can learn.

If you’re looking to ramp up your swimming, why not enquire about joining a squad or contact a group like Females in Training (FIT) who meet regularly to train together.

the essentials

What: Swimming
Where: There are indoor pools across Canberra including NextGen Canberra, Canberra Olympic Pool, Lakeside Leisure Centre, Gungahlin Leisure Centre, Active Leisure Centre, the Australian Institute of Sport, CISAC and more.
When: Most pools are open from early morning to around 9pm.
How much: Casual entry fees vary, or ask your local pool what membership options are best for you
Contact: Find a list of pools at the ACT Government website.

Power Yoga

There are a variety of yoga classes and styles available around Canberra.

A toasty hot yoga session is an excellent remedy for a chilly day. I am such a fun of Power Yoga Canberra. Heated to approximately 30 degrees, it’s hot without being unbearable and makes for a really good workout for your body and your mind.

For me, it’s the perfect blend of spiritual and physical yoga in that it’s challenging for you body – building strength and balance, but also focuses on a clear, mindful presence.

I tried out classes at the beautiful studio in the city, located on East Row above the bus interchange. With a stunning mural and crisp white walls and it’s just such a gorgeous space to practice in. The studio is roomy but does get pretty busy so it’s best to get a spot early and get accustomed to the heat. There is also a studio in Belconnen for those looking for a Northside option.

There are quite a few yoga instructors at Power Yoga including Justine and Marcus Janssen, Shirley Campbell, Matt Lee and many more. All the instructors have different backgrounds, whether that be personal training, martial arts, body balance, rehabilitation, triathlon coaching and more, so they all have something slightly different to offer. In terms of style, Power Yoga offers their signature Power classes, Power Focus, and Yin Yoga, with poses held for longer periods of time.

the essentials

What: Power Yoga Canberra
Where: Level 1, Oatley Court Belconnen or Level 1, Sydney Building, 45 East Row, Canberra City
When: Classes run throughout the week, check the website for class timetables
How much: Membership options vary, there’s an introductory offer of $49 for 30 days of unlimited yoga, a casual drop in fee of $22, as well as multiple class passes or monthly memberships.
Web: www.poweryogacanberra.com.au

 Women’s Boxing

Women’s Boxing at Stockade Training Centre. Image: Facebook.com

You may recall my Rocky Balboa moment from 2014 where I had the privilege of road testing Women’s Boxing at Stockade Training Centre and loved it.

At first, I was a bit intimidated. After all, classes are taught by former Australian Flyweight champion and Oceania Bantamweight champion Bianca Elmir. I was scared I’d be out of my depth, or that I wouldn’t be up to the challenge.

Sound familiar? Well ladies, fear no more! I can testify that what you’ll find at Stockade is nothing short of a group of kind, supportive and welcoming women of all fitness levels. The lovely Bianca gently held my trembling hand through the whole experience (figuratively, not literally), assuring me that I was more than capable. She’s incredibly knowledgeable but also a really talented teacher.

While you can obviously expect boxing drills, there’s also skipping, squats, ab workouts and more – it’s varied, fun, supportive and a fantastic way to get fit – and fight the chill!

the essentials

What: Women’s Boxing Classes at Stockade Training Centre
Where: 3 Rosevear Place, Dickson
When: Enquire at Stockade
How much: Enquire at Stockade
Web: www.stockadetraining.com.au