Let’s face it, running in place on a treadmill or pedaling away on a stationary bike probably isn’t the best way to challenge you mentally and physically. Sure, workout machines can definitely help shed pounds or maintain your weight, but they just don’t kick your butt in the same way that cardio boot camp or spinning do. If you desire a challenge, camaraderie, and aggressively paced music, an aerobics class is the answer.

Once you have made the decision to add aerobics classes to your routine, the next step is to choose the best one for you. There are so many aerobics classes to choose from, it might be tough to pick just one. This is actually a good thing because much like the treadmill, the routine can get a little stale and you might not feel challenged. Mixing things up a bit is your best bet. So, to begin choosing an aerobics class, you should consider your weight, activity level, goals, and any injuries you may have.

Understanding your injuries, whether you have joint issues or a temperamental heel spur, will play an important part in choosing an aerobics class. For example, if you have issues with your heel spur, an aerobics class such as spinning or water workout will take the pressure off sensitive areas. Running, jumping, and kicking will only aggravate the condition, so choose classes that limit these types of movements. If your joints are troublesome, aerobics classes such as ashtanga or bikram yoga, water workout or swim training, or belly dancing will take the focus off susceptible connectors.

Weight, age, and activity level are important factors to consider as well. The level of intensity of aerobics classes such as double step, max force kickboxing, cardio boot camp, and big spin (90 minute ride), might prove too much for beginners, individuals that have been sedentary for years, and individuals that may be more than 20 pounds overweight or obese. Everyone has to start somewhere, so if you fall into any of these categories, simply choose “beginner” level or “intro to” when selecting aerobics classes such as these. Fortunately, most health clubs offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. If you stick with it and remain patient, you will have no problems working your way up to advanced level.

If you currently work out anywhere from 3-5 days per week, you’re halfway there. Because aerobics classes are choreographed and they might require the use of muscles your current workout does not target, you might have to start off in a beginner’s class to learn the basics. If you’re a quick learner and you feel you are in excellent shape, try starting with an intermediate class. If it’s too easy for you, then go ahead and try an advanced class.

Weight loss and weight management are two of the top reasons Americans hit the gym. Just about any 45-60 minute exercise session on most days of the week will help maintain your current weight. In some cases, weight-loss may result as well. To lose a significant amount of weight, however, you will have to engage in aerobic exercise for at least an hour on most days of the week, as well as strength training, and stretching. If weight loss is your goal, the following aerobics classes are efficient at assisting with weight reduction:

· Power Step
· Spinning
· Step & Sculpt
· Boxing
· Cardio Kickboxing
· Hi-Lo Aerobics
· Boot Camp
· Swim Training

As a general rule of thumb, any activity that encourages all over body conditioning will be efficient at encouraging weight loss and helping maintain a healthy heart. If the aerobics classes listed above are not listed on your health club’s group exercise program, simply scan the summaries for each class, keeping an eye out for classes that target the entire body from head to toe.