Barrow Offers Ways to Get in Shape for the New Year

Did you resolve to get in shape in 2011? Barrow County has an array of interesting classes to help you break out of the traditional gym routine. Here are some options: 

Yoga

Yoga focuses on slow, low-impact movements meant to increase flexibility and stretch muscles. Myrna McCoy, who teaches yoga at the Brad Akins YMCA in Winder, said it is not just good for your body; it's also good for your mind. It can reduce stress and help with relaxation.

Linda Taylor, 62, started yoga a year and a half ago and said with consistent practice, the pain in her lower back disappears and doing day to day tasks becomes easier and more enjoyable.  

Aquatics

If you have arthritis, knee or leg problems, or just love the water, aquatics classes offer a fun alternative workout.

Sheila Duncan, wellness director at the Winder Y, said she has seen great improvements in people taking these classes. One such participant is in her 60s. When Duncan met her, she couldn't walk to the pool without stopping to rest. Now she bounds down the halls.

The YMCA offers Aqua Cardio, a low-impact class designed to get your heart rate up; Aqua Sculpt, which targets muscles; and a slightly more intense Aqua Mix, where exercisers are in deeper water. There are also aquatics classes designed specifically for active older adults. 

Dance

Dance classes keep you moving, get your heart rate up, and can be a blast. They are cardio based, though some include light weights. The Y offers several different types.

Zumba is Latin-inspired with fast beats. Along with traditional Zumba, the YMCA offers classes designed for teens and active older adults. The YMCA's line dancing class includes different types of music, not just the traditional country and western. Coming in 2011, they will also offer a hip-hop dance class.  

Boot camp

If you are looking for a high-energy, high-impact class, a boot camp may be for you.  Boot camps might conjure images of angry demands for more push-ups, but Sheril Burrage of Winder's women-only Body Transformer Boot Camp said there are no drill sergeants at their classes. Instead, expect motivating trainers.

"Instructors will push you farther than you ever thought you could go," she said.

Boot camps typically include high-impact cardio, core strengthening and muscle toning. They incorporate military-inspired challenges, such as obstacle courses and push-ups. If you are looking for a co-ed boot camp, the Brad Akins YMCA also offers classes. 

With all the variety to be found in Barrow County, there is sure to be an exercise class right for you.