Fitness Trends: Should You Try Them?

by Shaun Dreisbach,Glamour

There are lots of fitness trends out there, especially in the fashion world. So, should you try 'em? Pete McCall, exercise physiologist with the American Council on Exercise, gives you guidance.


Party Workouts
Imagine Studio 54 (disco balls, techno lights, DJs) with squats and lunges instead of boozy antics and you've got the idea. Barry's Bootcamp in New York City, a favorite of celebs like Kim Kardashian, has a Saturday-night dance-party class where you socialize while you sweat-then down wheatgrass shots.
Should you do it? Yes! "If you make working out a social event," says McCall, "you'll look forward to it-and actually do it." Or try a DIY version: Invite friends over to tackle that sweaty workout DVD. We won't tell if you spike the smoothies afterward.

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Hot Everything You've heard of hot yoga. But now all sorts of workouts-from cycling to Pilates-are being done in 105-degree (or higher!) rooms. The fad has caught on with models, designers, and fashion publicists
Should you do it? God, no. "Honestly, this trend is just stupid!" says McCall. "You might think you're getting a better workout, but you're not burning any more calories or fat. You're stressing your heart and risking heat exhaustion and dehydration."

ViPR Training Pronounced "viper," this weighted rubber tube is used instead of weights (you've seen it on The Biggest Loser).
Should you do it? Definitely. McCall swears ViPRs are "transforming the fitness industry" because they're easy to use and work so many muscle groups (core, arms, thighs) at once. ViPR classes at Equinox clubs have been packing in the sample-sized set. Search for a class in your area at viprevolution.com.

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Fitness Vacations They range from Zen to boot-camp-ish and can be pricey. One favorite of designers and publicists, Escape to Shape, offers health-focused trips around the globe starting at $3,500; fitness spas like Canyon Ranch charge $480 a night and up.
Should you do it? Sure; "they put you in a healthy frame of mind," says McCall. But you don't need to splurge. Plan a weekend hiking and kayaking with friends-good for your health and easier on your wallet.

Have you tried any of these workouts? Which ones seem most appealing to you?

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