Best Of Atlanta: Fitness Studios
Whether you just moved to the city or are looking to get back into the fitness scene, Atlanta has endless options for working out. All of my favorite fitness studios are local and unique to Atlanta or individually owned and operated as part of a franchise.
Best Barre: Pure Barre
Pure Barre is a low impact, total body workout that uses small isometric movements. Each class follows the same format with different exercises targeting specific muscle groups: arms, thighs, seat, and abs. All levels of fitness can reap the benefits of Pure Barre!
I have been an avid fan of Pure Barre for many years. (I reached the 100 Club at the Athens, GA studio when I went to UGA!) The first class may be confusing/overwhelming, but stick with it! It actually gets MORE challenging when you know what you're doing. Instructors are very hands on with corrections and will answer questions before and during class.
Atlanta has several studio options making it an accessible choice across town: Brookhaven, Buckhead, Chastain, Decatur, Druid Hills, Dunwoody, Inman Park, Vinings, Virginia Highland, and Westside. I definitely recommend starting with the New Client Special and going to class 3-4 times a week to see maximum results!
Visit www.purebarre.com
Best Cycling: BURN Studios
Sure there are many great cycling studios in Atlanta, but BURN is unlike any other. The people honestly make the place - all of the instructors are positive, uplifting, and motivating. BURN's cycle class combines speed and strength for an intense workout that's actually fun. (I have never caught myself smiling during any other workout class.) Not to mention - the studio locally owned and operated!
If you're looking for more variety in your workout, BURN offers kickboxing and yoga, along with cycling, included with membership. New clients can get 5 classes for $55 and they provide all necessary items for each class.
Visit www.livetoburn.com
Best Kickboxing: Vesta Movement
If you haven't tried kickboxing, this is the place to do it! Vesta Movement is a locally owned studio that was created to empower women to box. The workout is high energy and high intensity - but don't be intimidated - if I can do it, so can you!
Owners Alixx and Missy have built an incredible team of trainers and a fitness community that openly welcomes all. Your first class is FREE, so there's no reason not to try it. The instructor will wrap your hands, provide gloves, and teach you the basic moves before your first class.
Visit www.vestaatl.com
Best Workout: SculptHouse
Ready for a challenge? SculptHouse uses the Lagree Fitness Method for a low impact, highly effective workout. The class incorporates strength and cardio for maximum results. Katherine Mason created the world's first studio that combines the Megaformer and Curve Treadmill.
ScultHouse is a listening exercise as much as a physical workout. The instructor focuses on the Megaformer group, leading them through the various positions. Each movement is done very slowly for maximum challenge and effectiveness. The Curve Treadmill group is led by monitors presenting various speeds and a timer. After 25 minutes, the class switches to begin the other half!
Bring a friend to try the class with you and plan a lunch date for after. The Buckhead studio is right by Kale Me Crazy, Cafe at Pharr, and Storico Fresco. Plus, your first class is only $15! Just prepare yourself to be tempted by their in house boutique with high-end athleisure shopping.
Visit www.sculpthouse.com
Best Membership: ClassPass
Can't decide which of these awesome studios to join? ClassPass is truly a miracle worker for finding your fitness niche. Membership allows access to hundreds of studios around Atlanta with easy online sign-up. Each package offers a different amount of classes per month. The only catch is they do limit the number of same studio visits. All of the studios listed above are available on ClassPass (with the exception of Vesta who had to discontinue due to popularity.)
Visit www.classpass.com
Let me know if you have tried any of these amazing studios or have your own favorite spot that you would like to share!