#Trends: Virtual Fitness

These days, heading to the gym on a regular basis is a great way to get in shape. From bootcamp classes to treadmills, healthy individuals attend daily visits to get that summer body beach ready. But fitness is changing at the clubs. From treadmills that play music videos to the tempo of your training regimen to step classes played on large screens for anyone to enjoy, fitness is going virtual and viral. Even group fitness classes that are an anchor in keeping members satisfied and engaged at the health club are testing out the virtual class experience. What’s happening in Chicago from a screen or hand held device. Check out these experiences, in and around the Windy City.

Biking Outdoors while Indoors

If you’re training for the upcoming triathlon, no doubt with the unpredictable weather this year, you’ve logged some miles on an indoor bike to get that time in the saddle. But riding without a spin instructor barking commands or not having the distraction of the lake side path can be rather boring. East Bank Club has several Expresso Bikes which offer a virtual experience of riding against another rider on various landscapes simulating an outdoor ride. Recently, an interactive fitness ride occurred online where riders raced throughout the world. Pitting against speed and mileage. many riders from Chicago ended up in the top 100.

Fitness Classes on Request at Amli River North or Marriott Mag Mile

Although many condominiums have health clubs on site, there are rare instances that a fitness class is available to its users. However, big screens and specific programming by WellBeats stations feature Zumba Fitness, Body Attack and other group fitness formats that are usually found only at the gym. The special kiosk on site incorporates playlists and user interaction on class format selections. Amli properties at 200 W. Monroe and 71 W. Hubbard feature these unique class offerings. Simply select the class format you want to take and bring a few friends or exercise by yourself. The instructors on screen talk to you like you’re in the room with them, similar to a traditional exercise video.

Take Class from Home

For days when it seems like getting to the gym is the last thing on your mind, websites like Daily Burn and Crunch Live let you work out without leaving the house. The companies offer workouts that you can stream at your convenience so you’ll never have an excuse to miss a workout. For a small monthly fee, you can experience classes such as kickboxing, yoga sculpt, interval training, and many more from the comfort of your living room.