9. Body Vive

Stepping into a Body Vive class is like being at a party. In the middle of its "mix and match" season this summer, this one hour session injects fun into an all-out workout using the Vive ball and Vive tube. The ball is for core exercises that strengthens the torso while the multi-functional tube is used for resistance training that tones the muscles and improves posture and balance.

Classes start off with a simple-enough aerobic routine to pump up the heart and burn calories. This is followed by functional strength training using the tube, and then ended by a set of slow stretching and mobility exercises on the floor. Short breaks are sandwiched in between these segments where the instructor can insert a bit of light yoga and breathing.

Target body parts: Whole body (core muscles, arms, legs, hips and buns)
Difficulty level for beginners: Medium

Pro: The lively atmosphere and hip music make it feel like a fun dance class.
Con: Beginners with slow coordination might find the routines a bit challenging to follow.

Rate: Included in the membership package*
Exclusivity: Offered to Fitness First members only
Free trial class for non-members? Yes**

10. Aqua Aerobics

Being one of the very few gyms with an indoor swimming pool, Fitness First Platinum at the RCBC offers this thrice-weekly regimen which promises a low-impact yet high-energy workout. This means that the sessions give you the same results you'd get from a studio aerobics class minus the excessive pounding that can strain both the muscles and joints. The novelty of this class is that it makes use of the whole pool area giving its students a complete cardio and toning workout.

The classes are divided into three parts: warm-up, workout, and cool-down. The warm up starts with laps in the gym's 22 sqm pool. The depth is a level 4 feet to suit majority of the students. The students then follow drills which make use of dumbbells and foam noodles. The dumbbells serve as weight outside the pool while the noodles provide the much needed water resistance to exercise and tone all the angles of the body.

Target body parts: Whole body (with special focus on the abdominal muscles)
Difficulty level for beginners: Medium

Pro: The class is inclusive of amenities such as towels, soap, deodorant, powder, and hairspray.
Con: Those who aren't comfortable in a pool might find it a little difficult to move in the water.

Special Note: Pregnant women, people suffering from scoliosis, and those needing physical therapy can take a modified version of the class just as long as they inform the management of their condition beforehand.

Rate: Included in the membership package*
Exclusivity: Offered to Fitness First Platinum members only
Free trial class for non-members? Yes**

*People can inquire about the different membership rates at the respective gyms.
**Non-members can schedule walk-ins and trials by calling the gyms in advance.