Jazzercise Fitness Center

No-​excuses exercise for me is: fun, local, requires limited gear, and fits into the end or beginning of my day. After major life changes this past year, including getting a desk job, weight gain had begun to affect my health in addition to my wardrobe options. I’ve run, swum, walked, hiked and biked my way to fitness before, so I checked out my options nearby and decided on Jazzercise for its time-​tested proof of all of my no-​excuses criteria.
Step into Jazzercise and join a fun cross-​section of Vancouver folks (mostly women) enjoying exercise and socializing without snobbery or pretense. Class managers, instructors and other friendly types make a point of learning names – and there are scheduled luncheons and after-​class coffee if you so desire – but you can also go, get in a good workout and get on your way pronto.
Music is current, routines choreographed, and the easy-​going environment (no mirrors!) allow you to work at your own pace, with high and low-​impact options. Bring your own gear, or use the studio’s weights, mats, and tubes, which ensure each hour’s workouts include stretching, cardio and strength. It’s a good 500+ calorie-​burning workout (at high impact) and you’re welcome to stay for a couple hours or come back. At this writing, the Hazel Dell location offers 40+ different classes, each instructor bringing a unique style but not compromising on a thorough, varied workout. A reasonable monthly fee includes all the courses you care to attend on a flexible schedule.
I just marked 25 classes last week and thought, «really? That many?» as it’s been a really easy way to get exercise into several days a week. But I’m seeing the benefits in toning, flexibility, and greater energy. –Off to buy some smaller workout pants, too!