It’s cold outside, but your workout routine doesn’t have to feel frigid. One of the thingsI love most about working out (besides the end-of-class wind down) is warming up my body to focus on my breath and its movements.
Right before the new year, I wanted to mix in a new fitness class into my wellness regimen so I looked at YO BK (607 Manhattan Ave). My current routine involves loads of morning stretches, Bar Method classes 4-5 times per week, and the occasional hot yoga class as a treat.
And one class at YO BK caught my eye in particular: Inferno Hot Pilates. I knew I had to try it out, and who knows? Maybe I’d be totally hooked.
The newly opened Manhattan Avenue studio offers Bikram Yoga, Inferno Hot Pilates, and Baptiste Power Yoga classes to expand your body and mind. Bikram Yoga, known as the original hot yoga, is a therapeutic and challenging series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises done in a 105F room. Baptiste Power Yoga is an energetic and empowering vinyasa flow class practiced in 95F heat with music. And, Inferno Hot Pilates features a high-intensity, low-impact interval training class done in a 95F room with a disco ball and energetic music. These distinct and dynamic classes are great for fitness novices and seasoned wellness enthusiasts alike.
I consider myself somewhere in between, I’m no stranger to working out but I’ve only been seriously mindful of a regular fitness routine for the past two and a half years or so. Needless to say, I was more than ready for the Inferno Hot Pilates class since it’s designed for all fitness levels.
I entered the studio in my typical workout ensemble: high-waisted black leggings, sports bra, and a sweatshirt. Pro tip: Leave your sweatshirt in the locker and bring an extra towel and a water bottle. Things are going to heat up very, very quickly. The workout room is pleasant and relaxing: warm, low lighting, and ready for action. The class kicks into gear gently, with a series of floor work moves, standing exercises, and Tabata training. The dial turns up, the music heightens, and your muscles heat up.
Right from the start, I loved all of the movements. From working on my core to a series of fast-moving burpees, I felt my muscles immediately engage. The low-impact workout is challenging with high intensity. Not to mention, Inferno Hot Pilates is an express class (45 minutes), so students can expect to cycle through movements rather quickly. In short, you won’t be bored one bit.
As the class progressed, I sweated way more than I ever thought imaginable. (Don’t worry, everyone else is too). But as I completed the floor work and standing exercises, my muscles felt more ready and pliable to each brand new movement. It was a quiet and joyful realization in the middle of a challenging workout.
If you want to engage in mindful body movements, burn fat, and strengthen your muscles in under an hour, YO BK’s Inferno Hot Pilates is the ticket. As for me? I was positively hooked.
Thinking of checking out YO BK? Sign up for the $59 Introductory Month package. And, the studio is hosting an open house on January 26-27.