Top 5: Places to Break a Sweat in Vancouver

Tantra Fitness – Aerial Arts
Gastown Location – 314 Water Street
Swing from the ceiling at an aerial fitness class with Tantra Fitness. The introductory aerial arts class will give you a chance to try out aerial hoops and silks (think Cirque du Soleil). Hang out upside down in a class that challenges your strength and stability – with no experience required. Come prepared with long leggings (avoid loose clothing) and a camera for fun photo ops! First class is only $20, and they also have a location in Mount Pleasant.

Ballet Lounge – Ballet Fit
1340 Granville Street
Don’t call it a barre class, this is Ballet Fit, a signature class only available at Ballet Lounge. Using the principles of classical ballet, the class is as much aerobic as it is about toning. Start at the barre doing a series of exercises before moving into the centre of the studio, adding in extra core and flexibility work. First timers must take the Level 1 class, but those with dance experience can move on to Level 2 classes after their introductory drop-in session.

All City Athletics – Boxing Fundamentals
130 West Hastings Street
Sometimes you need to wrap your wrists and let loose. Take the boxing fundamentals class at All City Athletics, an underground boxing studio located in the city’s historic Gastown neighbourhood. This is a true-to-form boxing class with a focus on upper and lower body technique. Although it’s guaranteed to make you break a sweat, these classes are taught by experienced boxers who will also help build skills, footwork and introductory boxing combinations. Drop-in sessions are $30.

Formation Studio – Dance Movement
16 East 5th Avenue
If you’ve ever fantasized about being one of Beyoncé’s back-up dancers, this is the workout for you. Choose from three types of classes: a cardio-focused freeform dance party, a high-intensity option with weights to build power, and a third that is all-out “nail that Usher video sequence.” But best of all is the super-supportive team that leads the classes, which will help you step out of your comfort zone.

Pups Yoga – Puppy Yoga
180 East Pender Street
A class here might not get the heart pumping, but it will definitely get your heart melting! A class at Pups Yoga is aimed at aiding your relaxation and boosting your serotonin by giving you the chance to enjoy an hour of beginner-level relaxation yoga while puppies roam freely around the studio. While you get in some exercise and snuggles, the lil’ doggos polish up their socialization skills.