The Right Fit

lthough running and traditional weightlifting may work for some, others are stuck in fitness limbo as they search for fun ways to get active this summer.

During the Baton Rouge Fitness Crawl, residents can discover alternatives by testing a range of classes offered at gyms and studios throughout the area for free from June 15 to 22.

“It is a week-long event where 18 gyms and studios are offering free classes to brand new clients,” said Maryam Diaab, the event organizer and owner of OpenBarre Studio. “People who have never been to certain studios and gyms can hop or crawl around to different places. Try a class for free to see what gym or studio fits them best.”

Inspired by similar events held in other cities, Diaab said she founded the Crawl in 2014 as a way for new clients to experience the variety of classes available at studios and gyms in the area. Even the name ‘crawl’ represents the event’s local flair.

“It’s kind of a play on a bar crawl where you go from bar to b

ar, trying different beers or liquors or what have you,” Diaab said. “It’s kind of a play on that, especially since my studio is named OpenBarre. It kind of gives it a more traditional bar feel. I decided it was fun, a kind of play on words.”

Although the 2014 Crawl began with only four studios and gyms, Diaab said the community’s excitement surrounding the event transformed it into something greater than she ever expected with 10 studios and gyms participating.

“I thought, you know, maybe four gyms or so. Keep it really small. Almost like a client swap,” Diaab said. “But, it kind of morphed into a really big city-wide event before the crawl was over last year.”

The Crawl has grown in its second year with 18 studios and gyms contributing more than 40 different kinds of classes, ranging from boxing to stand-up paddle boarding. The classes also cater to different ages to provide something for everyone.

“I love some of new places we’ve added this year, like UFC gym and Muddy Water Paddle Company,” Diaab said. “Those types of things are really different, really unique that you can only find in those locations. I’m really excited about not only seeing community members try those classes, but I want to try some of the classes as well.”

Along with the classes, participants will be eligible for discounts and tastings at local eateries, like Fresh Kitchen, The Big Squeezy, and The Salad Shoppe.

Get ready for summer with the right workout

Many people begin their most intense workout programs this time of year to gear up for all the outdoor activities and beach vacations they have planned.
So what is the best way to get summer-ready in the shortest amount of time?
The most effective path to getting in shape is a combination of full body workouts alternated with High Intensity Interval Training,

Full body workouts consist of at least one exercise per muscle group.  Rest one to two days between workouts.

A great way to add variety to full body workouts is to make Workout 1 a compound exercise day consisting of all movements that engage more than one muscle at a time.

Designate Workout 2 as an isolation day consisting of all movements that focus on one specific muscle at a time.

For Workout 3 have fun with a novelty workout day.  Incorporate some functional training such as tire flipping or calisthenics such as pushups, pull-ups, and dips into your third workout day.

Suspension Training is another great option for your third workout day. It will help spare your joints while working out the primary muscles along with the stabilizer muscles as well.

The variety of three different full body workout programs will keep each day fresh and fun.  Each workout has a purpose in helping you to reach your fitness goals.

Here are 3 full body workouts that you can make part of your fitness program: