Unusual fitness classes to try in 2017

03 Jan 2017

Lifestyle Features Editor

Getting fit doesn't have to mean spending countless hours in the gym and pounding on the treadmill. If you're looking for a new way to shape up in 2017 you're in luck; we've rounded up five of the most unusual workouts that are not only effective, but fun too.

Boxing meets Ballet

Boxing has seen a huge surge in popularity over the past 12 months thanks in part to Victoria's Secret models Gigi Hadid and Adriana Lima. There are now a huge number of boxing-inspired workouts to try, but one of our favourites is Boxerina from London based Paola's Body Barre.

Mixing ballet with boxing, this class promises an improvement in co-ordination, power, core strength and agility. Sign us up!

£28 per class, Paolasbodybarre.com.

HIIT makes a splash

If you're a convert to HIIT (high intensity interval training) workouts, you're going to love the new class on offer from Virgin Active. This gym is bringing high intensity workouts to the pool with its new Hydro class; think timed sprints, aqua-jogging and resistance moves that will help you to tone up with minimal impact on the joints.

Free for members, Virginactive.co.uk.

Running free with Parkour

Fancy taking your running to the next level? You can do so – literally – with Parkour. The freerunning craze looks set to become even bigger in 2017, with a number of classes available to train people of all abilities to become Parkour pros. You'll be super strong and scaling walls in no time.

£65 for a five class pack, Parkourgenerations.com.

Flying high

Roll up, roll up! Have fun while getting fit with the new wave of circus-inspired workouts. From aerial hoop classes to trapeze and even aerial yoga, these classes promise increased flexibility and strength, and are also a great core workout. Definitely one to try with friends.

£25 per class, Flyingfantastic.co.uk.

Jump to it

Trampolining is not just great fun, but a great workout too. While it may seem that they are aimed at children, don't dismiss them just yet! The jumping and dynamic movements you will do on a trampoline will improve your cardiovascular endurance, strength and flexibility, without even realising it.

Oxygen Freejumping parks, which are located across the UK, run a number of different fitness classes including a multi-level obstacle course from Bear Grylls Fitness.

From £8 a class, Oxygenfreejumping.co.uk.