Sick of the gym? Whether you’re a chest-beating beefcake, fun-loving hip-wiggler or early-rising yoga warrior, put a spring back in your step with our pick of unusual workouts.
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Mr (Ms) Muscle
If you can be heard grunting like a brown bear protecting its young, then you’ll like these tough-nut classes. Come and have a go if you think you’re hard enough!
The Bulgarian Bag workout
Ever seen an Eastern European shepherd balancing a sheep on his shoulders? No? Well, the Bulgarian athlete Ivan Ivanov has, and it inspired him to create the Bulgarian Bag in 2005. Resting livestock on the shoulders is a traditional activity in Bulgarian folk wrestling festivals, and Ivan developed the idea into a new exercise regime. Throughout this 30-minute class, you’ll strengthen your grip, wrists, back and limbs while improving balance and joint mobility by hoisting a heavy bag – much like a sandbag – on to your shoulders. It has three types of handles so you can execute various moves, and comes in small to extra large – the size and weight depends on your strength and fitness. This class launched in October 2013 and up to 11 students are welcome.
Suitable for all ages. Dhs35. Thu 6.30pm-7pm. Sheraton Abu Dhabi, corner of Corniche and Salam Streets, www.sheratonabudhabihotel.com (02 677 3333).
Grit
You’ll be gritting your teeth in this one, as the 30-minute high-intensity interval training workout will push you to the extreme. You’ll use barbells and do non-stop high-knee jumps, squats, press-ups and burpees – the killer move that takes you from a jump to a press-up and back. It’s ideal if you have a busy schedule and want to see results fast. Single sessions are not available.
Dhs999 for 10 sessions. Gold’s Gym UAE, second floor, Mazyad Mall, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, and second floor, Al Wahda Mall, www.goldsgym.ae (800 46537).
Tabata
Created by Izumi Tabata as a form of training for a Japanese figure-skating team, this circuit-style class will put you through your paces. You’ll rotate through four sets of exercises, each of which lasts 30 seconds, with a brief break in between. Expect lots of high-knee jogs, press-ups, planks and sit-ups before ending with star jumps. It hurts? You signed up for it.
Dh55. Mon 6.30pm-7.30pm, Sat 6.30pm-7.30pm. Get Moving Fitness & Spa Centre, 31st Street, between Muroor Road and Airport Road, www.getmovinguae.com (02 642 5665).
Spartan Training
Try this new class if the words ‘extreme’ and ‘core’ don’t send you running for the hills, and the phrase ‘hammering tyres’ makes you want to roar and beat your chest. It’s held on the beach so as you race, lift weights and roll tyres, expect to get sweaty and discover sand in some pretty uncomfortable places.
Dhs35 members, Dhs50 non-members. Mon and Sat 7pm-8pm in May. Nation Riviera, St Regis Abu Dhabi, Corniche, www.nationrivierabeachclub.com (02 694 4444).
Taekwondo
Take up this Korean martial art and you’ve instantly got street cred. Join this new 60-minute class with up to 20 students, where you’ll learn a combination of combat and self-defence moves such as high kicks, blocks and strikes, and even how to hurl an opponent to the floor.
Dhs50. Tues 5pm-6pm kids, 6.30pm-7.30pm adults. So Fit! Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, Corniche East, www.sofitel.com (02 813 7777).
VMX Rope Trainer
The VMX Rope Trainer is a machine that allows you to pull rope while standing, sitting and kneeling, so you engage all your major muscles. A magnetic brake system means the height and angle of the rope can be adjusted to enable you to yank it in all directions. The cardiovascular class is suitable for athletes and for general fitness as it burns body fat, improves strength and flexibility, reduces cholesterol levels and lowers blood pressure.
Classes are free for members. Dhs1,600 three-month membership. Gold’s Gym UAE, details above.
Pro Cycling
This programme was developed by Victoria Pendleton, the 2008 and 2012 GB Olympic gold medallist – and if it’s good enough for her… A form of high-intensity interval training, the group cycling classes are themed around keirin – a form of professional track cycling racing invented by the Japanese. The class launched in the UK in 2013, and it’s brand new to Abu Dhabi. It’s suitable for everyone as you work at your own level – but no, that doesn’t mean you can cheat and be lazy. Up to 30 students fit in each class, depending on the studio size.
Dhs100 one-day pass. Wed 5.30pm. Fitness First, various locations including Abu Dhabi Mall, Al Zahiyah, www.fitnessfirst-me.com (02 674 6991).
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The early riser
If the thought of being up with the lark is music to your ears then you’ll love these early-bird sessions. Rise and shine!
Open-water swimming
There’s nothing like a dip in the sea before work to set you up for the day. Improve your swimming technique and practise sprints and long-distance swimming in a group class off Yas Beach.
Dhs100 single class, Dhs300 for four. Wed 6-7am. Haddins Fitness, Yas Island, www.haddins.com (02 403 4233).
Nordic walking
Nordic walking gives you a gentle but full-body workout. The motion is similar to an elliptical trainer at the gym, as you hold poles in your hands and push off the ground as you walk. This hour-long class will see you marching around Yas Island with up to 11 others, stopping occasionally for bench presses and stair climbs.
Dhs40 single class, Dhs240 for six weeks. Sun 6.15pm and Tue 8.30am at Du Forum, Yas Island. Email helen@proactive.ae, www.proactive.ae (050 810 0774).
Jiu-Jitsu
This class requires an early start but don’t let that trick you into thinking they’ll go easy on you. Donning a karate suit, you’ll be wrestling your fellow classmates and throwing them to the floor within a week – either that or you’ll be the one flat on your back. Ouch.
Dhs70. Sun-Thu 6.30am. Email info@cobramuaythai.com. Cobra Gym, Al Bandar, www.cobramuaythai.com (055 616 0996).
Sunrise Yoga
What a way to start your day… As dawn breaks, listen as waves lap against the shore as you strike a sun salutation pose.
Sun, Tue, Fri 6am-7am in May. Dhs35 members, Dhs50 non-members. Nation Riviera, details above.
Poseidon Battle
In this class you can make like Poseidon, the god of the sea. Or you can just enjoy the class for what it is – aqua aerobics.
Dhs35 members, Dhs50 non-members. Sun and Tues 9am-10am; Mon, Wed, Sat 7.30am-8.30am in May. Nation Riviera, details above.
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The school run parent
If you’ve dropped off the kids and have time to spare before getting on with your day, try these workouts
Xtend Barre
Created by Andrea Rogers, a former professional dancer, choreographer and Pilates teacher from the US, Xtend Barre was launched at Bodytree Studio in September 2011 and remains the only facility licensed to teach it in the Middle East. The class incorporates Pilates and ballet moves, and students use a stretchy band attached to the barre to add resistance. It combines elements of cardio, mindfulness and toning without building muscle to streamline and chisel the body, and is restricted to a maximum of 16 students so everyone has enough space. No prior dance experience is required, although the class may well unleash your inner ballerina. Sorry guys, this one’s for ladies only.
Dhs90 single class, Dhs75 per class for 10 classes. Sun, Mon, Wed 7pm; Mon 9am; Tue and Thu 10am in May. Bodytree Studio, Corner of 11th and 26th Streets, www.bodytreestudio.com (02 443 4448).
Adult Ballet
If you were six years old the last time you did ballet, give it another try. Not only does it improve posture and flexibility, it also tones up the whole body, too, as all your muscles are actively engaged in movement. The class is new this month.
Dhs80. Sun 9.45am, Mon 5pm and Tue 6pm. Bodytree Studio, details above.
Hi Low
This high-intensity, low-impact workout was designed especially for men and women who want to fit a class into their daily routine without having to compromise the rest of their day. The class launched in April 2013 and the time was set based on members’ suggestions, giving them time to drop the kids at school and get to the gym. It’s ideal for novices and fitness fanatics, as it burns fat and builds lean muscle in just 45 minutes. Routines change every fortnight to keep things fresh for regulars. The class is held on the lawn in front of the workout room or in the fitness studio, depending on the weather.
Dhs85 non-members. Tue 9am. Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, www.montecarlobeachclub.ae (02 656 3500).
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All about body and mind
Ommm… If you believe a healthy mind is as important as a healthy body, try these good-for-the-soul classes
Zenga Flow on the Reformer
Developed by Merrithew Health & Fitness in Canada, this class is a subsidiary of the Stott Pilates brand and is new to Abu Dhabi from May. It’s a fusion of yoga, Pilates and dance, so it combines the strength and mindfulness of yoga with the precision and control of Pilates and all the fun of a dance class. You’ll practise moves and hold postures on a Pilates Reformer (a spring-loaded resistance machine), so you’ll engage every muscle, work your core and build stamina. Up to six men and women can take part at a time.
Dhs120 single class, Dhs950 10 classes. Wed and Sun 10am. Bodytree Studio, details above.
Full Moon Yoga
Once a month, in line with the lunar calendar, Emirates Palace hosts a full moon yoga class on the beach. With the moon overhead and bonfire on the sand, participants enjoy a 90-minute yoga session combined with meditation. Mats, blocks, towels and water are provided. Dates are announced two weeks in advance so call ahead.
Dhs85. 7pm-8.30pm. Email beachclub@emiratespalace.ae. Emirates Palace, Corniche West, www.kempinski.com (02 690 7311).
Taiji Chuan
Also known as tai chi, this martial art originated in China and began as an internal form of kung fu. The class’ instructor, Alexander Ivanov, has over 30 years’ experience. He’ll teach you breathing techniques, slow movements, meditation, and self-defence moves. The programme is designed for students willing to practise for three years. In the first year you’ll learn basic moves and meditation, in the second you’ll work with a partner, and in the third you’ll practise fighting exercises. You can also dip in and out of the programme. The class is suitable for all ages and fitness levels and has a maximum of 10 students.
Dhs60. Sun and Tue 8pm-9pm. Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, www.shangri-la.com (02 509 8888).
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The trend setter
Aerobics is so 1983. Instead, give these in-vogue classes a go
Stand-up Paddleboarding Yoga
Stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP, is when you balance standing up on a board resembling a surfboard and propel yourself through the water with a long paddle. With SUP yoga, you ditch the paddle and do usual yoga moves – downward dog, plank and cobra – on the board. Watercooled launched this class in February 2013 and, as it’s suitable for men and women of all ages and unlimited numbers can attend, they’ve soared in popularity. The 90-minute classes start with a 30-minute warm-up followed by one hour of yoga instruction.
Dhs110. Sat 4pm, Mon 9am. Watercooled Abu Dhabi, Hiltonia Beach Club, Hilton Abu Dhabi, www.watercooleddubai.com/abu-dhabi (02 639 5997).
CrossFit
Hardcore trainers will love this one – after you’ve done the class, not during. Popular among police academies, tactical operations teams, military special operations units and champion martial artists, this strength and conditioning class is not to be taken lightly. As well as old favourites such as press-ups, pull-ups and squats, you’ll learn new skills such as Olympic-style gymnastics and weight-training techniques favoured by professional athletes. Expect to ache for days after your first class, which is free. The gym offers around six classes a day from 6am to 9pm, some of which are for ladies only.
Dhs120, or Dhs850 for eight classes. Email codemcrossfit@gmail.com. Code CrossFit, Danat Tower B, behind the Holiday Inn near 31st Street and Muroor Road, www.codemcrossfit.com (050 297 5222).
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Dance it off
If there’s nothing you love more than jamming to the latest tunes, you’ll like…
Kaebo
As the name suggests, this class is a combination of karate, aerobics and boxing. Like a child with a short attention span, you’ll switch from upper cuts, hooks and punches to sweeping the floor with a grapevine then shaking your booty like Beyoncé. The instructor might even throw in some Michael Jackson Thriller moves, if you’re lucky. It’s a fun class if you need blaring music and a fast pace to distract you from the fact that you’re actually exercising.
Dhs80. Tips & Toes, Street 12, Khalifa City A (same road as Al Forsan International Sports resort), www.tipsandtoes.com (02 557 2255).
Belly dancing
Make no mistake, this is a fun workout. As well as the basic shimmy you’ll learn to jiggle your hips in a figure of eight, snake your arms and twirl a veil in the air without getting in a tangle. It’s especially good for toning your torso and arms.
Dhs60. Wed and Sun 8pm-9pm. Bodytree Studio, details above.
Bokwa
Tipped to be the new Zumba, Bokwa is a lively African-inspired aerobic dance class during which you write the alphabet and numbers with your body. The class was developed by Paul Mavi, a fitness instructor based in Los Angeles, who tapped into his native South African roots and training as a dancer and musician. Participants move to African, Latin, dance and house beats, while they follow the teacher’s sign language. Beginners start with easy shapes such as L and C. Air guitar is optional.
Dhs60. Mon 6pm-7pm, Thu 10am-11am. Eastern Mangroves Resort and Spa, Eastern Ring Road, www.abu-dhabi.anantara.com (02 656 1000).
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Bootcamp
Won’t take the stairs unless a drill sergeant barks the order? You’ll like these military-style workouts
Hell Week
The clue’s in the name, so don’t expect an easy ride. This group training class is limited to 16 participants and three trainers, so you can be sure you’ll receive individual attention – and barking orders. By the time you’ve done 25 rounds of burpees, crawled in the sand and raced your classmates while carrying five gallons of water, you’ll be sweating buckets. The price includes a daily 50-minute training session, a daily smoothie, assessments to analyse your body fat before and after the week, a meal plan and breakfast on the last day. This course is perfect for kickstarting a health regime. Classes are held on the beach or on the lawn in front of the workout room, and run every eight weeks.
Dhs650 non-members, Dhs350 members. Sun-Sat 7am. Monte-Carlo Beach Club, details above.
Yas Beach Primal
New for April 2014, this class sees participants tugging on a functional rig, pulling ropes, an open-water swim and a painful amount of tyres. Strictly for early-rising fitness fanatics hell bent on losing weight.
Dhs100, or free to Haddins and Yas Beach members. Mon and Wed 6am. Haddins, details above.
Indo-Row
Essentially a rowing machine class, this latest celebrity workout arrived in the UAE in January 2014 at Hilton Abu Dhabi – the team was trained by the original Indo-Row experts who flew in from LA especially. As well as working out the upper body, it works the quads, hamstrings and glutes, so expect a high-intensity yet low-impact workout – ideal for burning calories, sculpting the body and improving fitness levels while having fun at the same time (allegedly). Up to 12 people can attend. At the start of the class, participants team up to provide support… until the final simulated race, that is. Beginners are advised to take the introductory class.
Dhs60. Tue 7.15pm, Thu 5.30pm (beginners). Hiltonia Beach Club, details above.
Fighter Fitness
In the words of Mat Dryden, Cobra Gym’s chief instructor, ‘Our motto is “Push till you spew” – we want people to vomit. This class is hard. If you don’t like it, go to another gym.’ This extreme bootcamp involves flipping tyres and carrying people upstairs at 9am on a Friday. The perfect start to the weekend, eh?
Dhs70. Cobra Gym, details above.
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Try anything once
If your life motto is ‘You only live once’, why not try the weirdest class of them all?
Kangoo Bootcamp
This is one of the most fun classes you’ll ever do. You start by strapping on boots that resemble rollerblades, only instead of wheels underneath there’s an almond-shaped rubber spring keeping you 12cm off the floor. Once you’ve learnt to walk and jog on what are effectively bouncy stilts, you’ll do the usual aerobics moves such as high kicks and that golden-oldie, single knee, single knee double knee. At the end of the class you’ll do some floorwork, still in the boots.
Dhs80 (boots included). Tips & Toes, details above. Fans can buy the boots for Dhs1,300.
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In your teens
If you’re under 18 and Mat Dryden above has scared the living daylights out of you, then try these for size
Youth Sports Academy
If you’re athletically talented, you can benefit from workouts tailored to improve your ability in a chosen sport. You set your targets, then a trainer will develop a programme for you to improve your strength, endurance, speed and agility. Suitable for 12-17-year-olds.
Dhs799. Sun-Thu 3pm-5pm, Haddins, details above.
Teen Fit
If you’re too old for kids’ clubs but don’t want to lounge about on the beach with your face in your iPad then this class is for you. Workouts are based on your specific strengths and weaknesses, and are designed to be fun regardless of your fitness levels. A typical session starts with three laps around the lawn, a series of sprints, core training, 15-20 minutes of football or volleyball then press-ups and squats.
Dhs85 non-members. Sat 11am. Monte-Carlo Beach Club, details above.
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