Top 5: Places to Break a Sweat in Vancouver

314 Water Street, Gastown
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 locations in Mount Pleasant and Kitsilano.

Ballet BC, 1286 Cartwright Street, Granville Island
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, set to electronic beats. 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. Ballet Lounge also offers some classes out of the Dance Centre downtown.

307 West Pender Street, Downtown/Gastown
At Yard Athletics, they’re not just working out, they’re training! You can pay for access to their very well appointed gym floor, but a real draw is their small group athletic training sessions. Choose from “Bone Yard”, “Yard Sale” and “Back Yard” sessions, each with a different mix of training and conditioning. Along with the downtown location, they’ve just opened a new gym in the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood.

16 East 5th Avenue, Mount Pleasant
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.

53 East Broadway, Mount Pleasant
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.