Body Sculpting

As I mentioned in my last post, I enrolled in a body sculpting class on the cruise and really enjoyed it.  Well, maybe not enjoyed, but I definitely feel I learned a great new workout.  I sweated so much, it was dripping in my ears and I could hardly walk up stairs the next day.  I knew I needed to step up my workout as it was getting too easy and a bit boring and I think I have.  Is a body sculpting class for you?  Let's find out.

Body sculpting is a strength training workout that combines cardiovascular exercise, flexibility and weights to shape and tone your body without adding bulk.  Therefore, it is an excellent workout for those trying to loose weight as it boosts metabolism while burning those calories.  It also lowers the risk of bone loss so it is ideal for women.  It's just as good for you men too.  There were two basketball players in my class and they thought it was a good workout.  Unlike some exercise, it has little impact on the joints, done properly.  A dumbbell is the only weight used and it should be heavy enough so that you can't do more that 15 reps per set.  If the weight is too light, you won't be working hard enough to achieve much benefit.  

Any fitness level can do this class though you should expect to be sore if you haven't been exercising much and maybe even if you have.  Look for an instructor that teaches proper form and helps you progress comfortably at your own pace.  Do let the instructor push you beyond your comfort zone so you are working hard.  There should be a warm up and cool down time and stretching of the muscles that just worked so hard.  Please bring a bottle of water to drink between sets.  My instructor emphasized the need to hydrate your body before, during and after a workout.

Here are some of the exercises taught in my class to give you an idea of what you'll be doing.  After a warm up of jogging in place, jumping jacks, etc, we might do burpees (jump up, squat down and jump into a pushup position, jump back up), step lunges with a twist to the side holding our weight out in front, or boxing punches with the weight.

Though I have not checked around, I am sure some of the local gyms offer body sculpting classes.  If there just aren't any near you, try to find a video to get started.  I brought home a booklet so I can do the workout at home.  I am hoping to see some results by the end of the month.

If you have been looking for a new routine, check out body sculpting.  I think you will like it.