Ways to Get in Shape

Now that summer is here, losing weight is on a lot of our minds. If you are looking to lose a few pounds then read on for my top 3 list. These are all things I've done before and would most likely do again.

1. Hip Hop Dance Classes
   
2. Pole Dancing Classes
   
3. Boot Camp

The hip hop dance classes are my favorite. You get a good cardio workout and you don't focus on how hard you are working as you are trying to learn the routine and get the moves right. Check out the Music Video Funk class at Dance 101 to experience this yourself. Its just like it sounds. You learn steps from music videos and its a lot of fun.

Pole dancing comes in second. Its not the intense cardio workout that you'd get from the hip hop classes or bootcamp but its awesome for toning up and it is definitely fun. This isn't practice for the real thing so you won't be taking off any clothes or performing for men in class. Its a safe environment of women only and everyone is very encouraging and supportive. Words don't do it justice. This is something that you have to experience yourself to really appreciate. Click here for more info.

Last on the list is boot camp. This is really not fun at all. Not in the beginning anyway. If you are a couch potato then this workout will be very challenging. My first day was miserable. The next day was better and each day after it improved. I won't lie and say that I enjoyed it but I knew it was good for me. Running, lunges, squats, crunches... You'll do all of this before sunrise and you'll see quick results. There are multiple options around town. American Boot Camp Company offers programs at Piedmont Park, Atlantic Station, Chastain Park, and other locations.