Have you gained some unsightly holiday pounds after all the office parties and family gatherings? Will you pay for yet another high priced gym membership, go consistently for the month of January, but forget about it by the middle of February? If franchise gyms or health clubs haven’t been your thing in the past, it may be time to stop the insanity. Luckily, there are other options to consider that are more exciting than the old Nautilus machine. Not only will you get a great workout, you may also learn something that will help save your life.
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – Jiu Jitsu, which means gentle art in Japanese, is an ancient form that was adapted by the Gracie family in Brazil. From Brazilian Jiu Jitsu you will become more flexible as you will work on a lot of stretching, you will increase your endurance as you will do a lot of callisthenic exercises. You will also learn different joint locks and chokes which may one day help you defend against a bigger opponent.
- Cross-Fit or Seal Fit – CrossFit (which some have started using the name SealFit) was adapted by US Navy Seals in order to do a variety of workouts that do not require any special type of machinery. Each workout combines a variety of movements that are to be done in either a short amount of time in order to stress and confuse many different muscles. One workout may have you do as many rounds of pull ups, 200 meter runs, and jumping on a box for 20 minute. The combinations are put in place to work out every muscle group and work your strength, endurance, and agility.
- Krav Maga – Krav Maga is a system of martial arts that was developed by Israel Defense forces. Through this the participant will work with grappling, wrestling, and striking techniques in a very safe environment. You will also learn such valuable techniques as weapon disarmament if the need ever arises.
- Kick boxing – Another martial art that will give you a great workout and teach you self defense as well. With kick boxing you will work on cardio, stretching, and calisthenics. You will also work on your hand eye coordination with the different combinations punching and kicking combinations. In just a 45 minute class, one can burn up to 1000 calories!
- Parkour – Parkour is a combination of gymnastics and Ninja Warrior obstacle course running, but it’s all simply amazing! With parkour you will get great cardio as you run, tumble, and climb your way to different obstacles. Parkour will work your strength, flexibility, and endurance all in one sitting

