BEYOND THE BONFIRE
Beyond the Bonfire: Why Skills-Based Summer Camps Rule (Especially with Dance and Aerials!)
Summer camp. The very words conjure up images of campfires, sing-alongs, and maybe even a bit of arts and crafts. But what if your child craves something more? Something that lets them explore a passion, build new skills, and gain confidence?
Enter the world of skills-based summer camps!
These camps take the classic summer fun and infuse it with focused learning.
Let’s shine a light on a youth camp that offer the dynamic duo of dance and aerial arts – specifically aerial silks and hoops.
Here's why these skills-based camps are a perfect fit for your youth:
Unleash Creativity and Confidence: Dance and aerial arts are beautiful ways for kids to express themselves. Camps provide a supportive environment where they can explore movement, experiment with choreography, and discover their inner artist. As they master new skills, their confidence takes flight (literally, in the case of aerials!).
Build Strength and Coordination: Both dance and aerials demand physical prowess. Camps help kids develop strength, flexibility, and incredible coordination. Whether they're mastering complex footwork or gracefully climbing a silk, they'll be building a strong and healthy body.
Embrace Challenge and Teamwork: Learning new skills takes grit. Camp activities provide a safe space to push boundaries, overcome challenges, and celebrate victories. Plus, many dance and aerial routines involve teamwork, fostering cooperation and communication skills that benefit them in all aspects of life.
Find Their Tribe: Skills-based camps attract kids who share a passion. These shared interests become the foundation for lasting friendships built on mutual support and encouragement.
So, ditch the ordinary this summer. Let your child explore the extraordinary world of dance and aerial arts at a skills-based camp.
They'll return with newfound confidence, a toolbox of amazing skills, and memories that will soar way beyond the campfire!
Embrace Your Bodyweight: Functional Fitness for Life
Forget fancy equipment! Bodyweight resistance training is your secret weapon for building strength and improving fitness on your own terms.
Here's the magic: Bodyweight exercises mimic everyday movements - squats, lunges, planks - the things you do every day. Strengthening these muscles translates to real-life benefits - navigating stairs with ease, tackling chores with less strain, and simply feeling stronger in your own skin.
But bodyweight training is so much more than convenience. This class empowers you!
We'll break down exercises for all levels, from mastering the basic push-up to discovering variations that challenge even the fittest. You'll gain the confidence to tackle these exercises anywhere, anytime, making fitness a seamless part of your life.
The benefits of bodyweight workouts go beyond aesthetics.
You'll build a strong core, improve balance, and boost bone density - all key ingredients for long-lasting health and injury prevention.
Join us and unlock the power of your own body for accessible, effective fitness that fits your life.
Baby Steps to Wellness: The Power of BabY and ME Fitness
Photo credit: Josee Gulayets
As a new parent, finding time to shower and feed yourself while keeping your baby fed and healthy is a challenge in itself. Finding time for your own personal wellness and fitness can feel like an insurmountable obstacle, and we often have to choose between our personal wellbeing and that of our child or family.
Enter Baby + Me fitness.
Let’s be clear- a Baby + Me class can’t and won’t fully replace the experience of finding peace in solitude in a yoga class, getting down in a heels class, or throwing weights around in HIIT. There is no replacement for autonomy and personal time.
But- these type of classes offer an option of choosing YOU without the added complications, costs, or time-currency trade off needed to make that happen.
Let’s go over the reasons why you might want to add a Baby + Me class to your schedule- even if you are craving some solo time.
Physical Well-being: Parent and baby fitness classes offer caregivers the opportunity to prioritize their health while bonding with their little ones. These classes typically incorporate gentle exercises tailored to postpartum recovery, helping caregivers regain strength, flexibility, and endurance. From yoga stretches to light cardio workouts, these sessions support the gradual return to pre-baby fitness levels.
Emotional Support: Parenthood can sometimes feel isolating, especially for new caregivers adjusting to the demands of caring for a newborn. Parent and baby fitness classes provide a supportive environment where caregivers can connect with other like-minded individuals who are also navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood. Sharing experiences, challenges, and triumphs with fellow caregivers fosters a sense of community and solidarity, reducing feelings of isolation and boosting emotional well-being.
Bonding Time: The bond between a caregiver and their baby is strengthened through physical closeness and interaction. Parent and baby fitness classes offer a unique opportunity for caregivers to engage in meaningful activities with their infants, promoting bonding through shared experiences.
Developmental Benefits for Babies: Babies are naturally drawn to movement and sensory stimulation. Parent and baby fitness classes provide a stimulating environment where infants can explore their surroundings and interact with other babies. Engaging in these activities not only supports physical development but also enhances cognitive and social-emotional skills in babies.
Self-Care: Amidst the whirlwind of parenthood, it's essential for caregivers to prioritize self-care. Parent and baby fitness classes offer a dedicated time for caregivers to invest in their well-being, both physically and mentally. By carving out time for exercise and social interaction, caregivers can recharge and rejuvenate, ultimately enhancing their ability to care for themselves and their families.
In essence, parent and baby fitness classes offer a holistic approach to post-baby wellness, addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of both caregivers and babies.
Beyond the benefits of exercise, these classes create a nurturing environment where bonds are strengthened and friendships are formed.
So, whether you're a new caregiver looking to regain your fitness or simply seeking a supportive community, consider joining a parent and baby fitness class—it's an enriching experience for both body and soul.
Why Non-Yogis Should Embrace the Practice
Ruth joined us as a non-yogi who’d never practiced before and now seeks it out at home and in-studio. Will you take the leap for yourself too?
Yoga, with its serene imagery of tranquil poses and meditative breathwork, often evokes images of experienced practitioners contorting their bodies into seemingly impossible shapes.
But in reality, the beauty of yoga lies not only in its physical prowess but also in its accessibility to individuals of all backgrounds, fitness levels, and beliefs.
Read on for a few compelling reasons why non-yogis should embrace the practice of yoga and discover its potential.
Embracing Physical and Mental Well-being
Whether you're a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, or simply someone navigating the complexities of daily existence, yoga offers a sanctuary where you can reconnect with yourself and find solace amidst the chaos.
While yoga is renowned for its physical benefits—enhancing flexibility, building strength, and improving balance—it offers so much more than just a workout.
For non-yogis seeking to enhance their overall well-being, yoga provides a holistic approach that addresses both the body and mind.
Through mindful movement and breath awareness, yoga cultivates a sense of inner peace and tranquility, alleviating stress and anxiety accumulated from the demands of modern life.
Cultivating Self-Awareness and Mindfulness
In a world filled with constant distractions and incessant noise, the practice of yoga offers a rare opportunity to cultivate self-awareness and mindfulness. By tuning into the present moment and observing sensations within the body, non-yogis can develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their inner workings.
Through breath-focused movement and meditation, yoga empowers individuals to quiet the chatter of the mind, letting go of worries about the past and anxieties about the future.
Whether you're seeking clarity in decision-making, resilience in the face of challenges, or simply a reprieve from the chaos of daily life, yoga provides a pathway to calm the pressures of the mind.
Building Community and Connection
Contrary to popular belief, yoga is not just a solitary pursuit reserved for ascetics and hermits—it is a communal practice that thrives on the spirit of unity and connection.
For non-yogis looking to expand their social circles and forge meaningful connections, yoga studios offer a welcoming environment where individuals from all walks of life come together to share in the journey of self-exploration and growth.
Whether you're practicing side by side in a group class or exchanging smiles with fellow yogis in the studio lobby, yoga fosters a sense of camaraderie and support that transcends the boundaries of age, gender, and background.
Through shared experiences and shared aspirations, non-yogis can find a sense of belonging and community that enriches their lives both on and off the mat.
Embracing the Journey
The practice of yoga holds immense value for non-yogis seeking to enrich their lives and nourish their souls.
Whether you're drawn to yoga for its physical benefits, its mindfulness practices, or its sense of community, the journey of yoga is one that offers endless opportunities for growth, discovery, and transformation.
So, why not take the first step on this journey and embrace the practice of yoga? Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you for it.
3 Secret Benefits of Myofascial Release
Myofascial release, often hailed for its ability to alleviate muscle tension and improve flexibility, holds a treasure trove of hidden benefits beyond its commonly known advantages.
While many are familiar with its role in soothing sore muscles and aiding in injury recovery, there are several lesser-known perks that make myofascial release a standout therapy.
Take a read to uncover these three secret benefits that might just revolutionize your perception of this practice.
Stress Reduction Beyond the Surface: Beyond the tangible release of muscle tension lies a profound impact on stress reduction. Myofascial release not only targets physical tension but also delves into the realm of emotional and mental stress. The fascia, a web-like structure that surrounds muscles and organs, holds onto emotional tension as tightly as physical stress. By gently manipulating the fascia through myofascial release techniques, practitioners can release emotional tension stored within, leading to a profound sense of relaxation and calmness. This holistic approach addresses stress at its core, offering a therapeutic experience that transcends mere physical relief.
Enhanced Athletic Performance: Athletes are no strangers to the benefits of myofascial release in alleviating muscle tightness and preventing injuries. However, what sets it apart as a secret weapon in the realm of sports performance is its ability to enhance overall athletic capabilities. By optimizing muscle function and range of motion, myofascial release allows athletes to move more efficiently and effectively. Additionally, the improved blood flow and circulation resulting from this therapy facilitate quicker recovery times, enabling athletes to push their limits and achieve peak performance levels. Whether you're a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, integrating myofascial release into your training regimen can unlock untapped potential and elevate your performance to new heights.
Balanced Energy Flow: In the holistic practice of myofascial release, there is a deep-seated belief in the interconnectedness of the body's energy systems. By releasing tension within the fascia, practitioners aim to restore the natural flow of energy throughout the body. This concept aligns with traditional Chinese medicine principles, where blockages in the body's energy pathways, known as meridians, can lead to various physical and emotional ailments. Through myofascial release, these blockages are cleared, allowing energy to circulate freely and promoting a sense of vitality and well-being. Whether viewed through a scientific or metaphysical lens, the notion of balanced energy flow underscores the profound impact of myofascial release on holistic health.
While myofascial release is widely celebrated for its physical benefits, its true power lies in the myriad of hidden advantages that extend beyond the surface.
From stress reduction to enhanced athletic performance and balanced energy flow, the impact of this therapeutic practice transcends the confines of conventional wisdom.
Whether you're seeking relief from physical discomfort or striving for holistic wellness, consider delving deeper into the world of myofascial release to unlock its secret treasures and embark on a journey towards optimal health and vitality.
Unlocking the OUTDOORS: The Benefits of Training for Trail Running, Downhill Biking, and Hiking
In a world that often feels confined by concrete jungles and computer screens, there's a primal longing for the untamed beauty of nature. For those who seek the thrill of adventure, trail running, downhill biking, and hiking offer a gateway to the great outdoors unlike any other. But beyond the breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping experiences, these activities also provide a plethora of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Let's dive into why training for trail running, downhill biking, and hiking can transform not only your body but your entire outlook on life.
Physical Fitness Redefined
Trail running, downhill biking, and hiking are all dynamic, full-body workouts that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously. The uneven terrain and elevation changes inherent in these activities require strength, agility, and endurance. By training for these disciplines, you'll develop a robust cardiovascular system, improve muscular strength and endurance, and enhance your balance and coordination. Whether you're navigating rocky trails, powering through uphill climbs, or descending steep slopes, every step and pedal stroke strengthens your body from head to toe.
Mental Resilience and Stress Relief
In the midst of our fast-paced lives, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by stress and anxiety. Trail running, downhill biking, and hiking offer a much-needed escape from the chaos of daily routines. Immersed in the serenity of nature, you'll find solace and clarity as you breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak in the sights and sounds of the wilderness. These activities also provide a mental challenge, requiring focus, problem-solving skills, and adaptability as you navigate ever-changing terrain and overcome obstacles along the way. With each trail conquered, you'll emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to handle life's challenges with grace and determination.
Connection to Nature and Community
In a world dominated by screens and social media, trail running, downhill biking, and hiking offer a refreshing opportunity to unplug and reconnect with the natural world. Whether you're weaving through forested trails, carving through mountain switchbacks, or summiting rugged peaks, you'll forge a deep connection with the earth beneath your feet and the majestic landscapes that surround you. Moreover, these activities foster a sense of camaraderie and community. From sharing trail tips and gear recommendations to cheering each other on during races and group outings, the bonds forged on the trails are as enduring as the mountains themselves.
A Lifelong Journey of Growth and Adventure
Training for trail running, downhill biking, and hiking isn't just about achieving physical fitness goals—it's about embarking on a lifelong journey of growth, self-discovery, and adventure. Each trail you conquer, each summit you reach, and each descent you master is a testament to your inner strength, courage, and determination. As you push your limits, explore new trails, and embrace the thrill of the outdoors, you'll uncover hidden reserves of resilience and tenacity that empower you to overcome any obstacle that stands in your way.
So lace up your trail shoes, saddle up your bike, or pack your hiking boots—your next adventure awaits. Whether you're chasing the exhilaration of a fast-paced downhill descent, the tranquility of a scenic trail run, or the awe-inspiring views from a mountain peak, training for trail running, downhill biking, and hiking promises to be an unforgettable journey of transformation and empowerment.
TOP 5 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PICKING YOUR DANCE CLASS
Top 5 Things to Consider When Picking a Dance Class
You’ve decided you want to take a dance class. Now what?!
Take some time to connect with your WHY so you can pick a class that best suits your motivations.
Picking the right class isn’t just about the style of dance, it’s also about STRUCTURE.
Read on for the Top 5 Things to Consider when selecting your class.
#1 -WHY YOU WANT TO TAKE A DANCE CLASS
We all have different reasons why we want to take a dance class. If you’re interested in fitness and learning how to dance, it’s important to recognize that this is a different experience than learning choreography to one song.
Whether you are a skilled dancer or a beginner, your motivation (your WHY) and what kind of experience you’re looking for needs to inform your class selection.
#2- YOUR MOTIVATIONS + SKILL
OPEN LEVEL STRUCTURE
If fitness and “how to dance” are your motivation, our open-level classes will get you grooving while teaching you the HOW (aka technique), with the chance to put your skills to work in each class.
Our open level class is structured as a combination of skills and technique and fresh combos each class, with about 50% of each class being dedicated to each. (For non-dancers, a combo is a “mini-dance,” not a full song).
These classes offer a slower instructional pace and beginner to intermediate moves and choreography. They are progressive in skill development, but not necessarily in choreography.
If you want to learn how to refine and HOW to dance in this style, or if you haven’t taken a dance class in a while- this is the class for you.
INTERMEDIATE STRUCTURE
If your motivation is to learn progressive choreography where you are working on the same song week after week to complete full-song choreography, then the intermediate classes are what you’re looking for.
Our intermediate class is structured as a progressive choreography-focussed class- meaning that you will work on choreography to the same song continuously through each class, until that choreography is complete.
These classes offer a faster instructional pace and intermediate moves and choreography. They are progressive in choreography and skill.
These classes is suited to those who are comfortable in this dance style and are more interested in learning a specific piece of choreography than learning “how to dance.”
REMINDER: if you pick an apple but actually an orange, it’s still going to be an apple. Joining a class because it suits your schedule better even is going to end in disappointment if it doesn’t connect with your motivation or goals.
Make sure you pick the right level of class to suit your WHY!
#3- YOUR COMMITMENT + AVAILABILITY
If you know you’re going to miss the occasional class, are unlikely to practice or catch up on choreography from missed classes, or find picking up and retaining choreography challenging, progressive choreography classes may not be suited to needs. These classes move quickly through choreography and require consistent attendance to feel fulfilling and enjoyable.
Even if you’re a skilled dancer, our beginner and open-level classes are better suited to those who are looking for a more casual approach where missing a class isn’t going to severely impact your class experience- or require slowing the pace of the class down for others to offer you the individual instruction you may need. Think of the open level classes as standalone classes, whereas the intermediate classes are one really long class with a completed piece of choreography being the goal.
#4- YOUR DESIRE TO PERFORM
Some people crave the spotlight, and the challenge refining a piece for performance entails.
Others have no desire to take the stage, and find the experience of running a single dance on repeat (drill it til you kill it!) til you hit it just right either boring or stressful.
If you know that you are keen to perform, love finding that perfect costume and drilling it til you kill it, then the intermediate choreography classes in fall and winter offer performance opportunities. Please note that the spring term does not offer a performance opportunity at this time.
While you are not obligated to perform, if you choose to register for an intermediate class please let the instructor know if you are available for and interested in performance when you arrive at your first class.
If you don’t want to be in the limelight or the process of performance prep sounds like a bunch of extra work and boring to boot- stick to open level to keep your joy of dance alive.
#5- YOUR PHYSICAL ABILITY
While we attempt to make our classes as inclusive as possible, certain styles lend themselves to different levels of fitness, flexibility, and physical capabilities.
Balance + Flexibility
All heels and contemporary classes require balance and flexibility.
While you will improve in these areas through the instructional period, training flexibility is not included in the curriculum.
Impact on Knees/Joints
Shuffle and house, hip hop, and Stepcraft are high-impact forms of dance that can be hard on your knees due to the plyometrics involved.
Hip hop, sass hop, floorplay, contemporary, and heels classes all incorporate floorwork (i.e. dance moves on the floor) where direct impact on the knees will occur. If you have sensitive knees and can’t bear weight on your knees, please consider this before registering for these classes or reach out beforehand so we are aware of your condition to ensure it will be an appropriate fit.
Reminder: knee pads are a recommended part of your dance kit for ALL classes!
Stamina
Hip hop, stepcraft, and shuffle and house require cardiovascular stamina. While this builds during class and helps with overall fitness goals, please be mindful of this when selecting your class.
At the end of the day, our goal is to help you connect with the joy of dance, whatever your motivation.
Whether you’re here for fitness, social connection, or craving the limelight, we hope that this info will help you find the class that will bring you the most joy so you can have the most fun.
INTUIT EXPANSION CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN
Our INTUIT EXPANSION X CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN is now live!
We are so grateful for the opportunity to not only expand our space, but expand our offerings and capacity to serve our community.
Intuit Expansion Project
Intuit Studio is EXPANDING and we need your help! Our mission has always been to foster physical, mental, and emotional connection in our studio, to give the community a place to come and move their bodies freely, express themselves through dance and movement, and take care of their bodies with fitness and yoga. And now we are asking for your support so we can expand the studio and offer you an even better experience at Intuit.
Why We Need Your Support:
Over the years, our studio has become a haven for individuals seeking a safe space to focus on health, movement, and self expression. We've witnessed transformations, shared stories of triumph, and formed connections that extend far beyond the studio walls. However, our current space has become limited, preventing us from offering the full spectrum of services and events our community deserves.
Our Vision:
With your generous support, we will be expanding from 1 studio to 2, which will not only accommodate more fitness and yoga classes into the evenings, but also help us increase our capacity to offer more Youth and Adult dance classes. This means that those of you with children will be able to come to an evening class and bring your child to their dance class at the same time, so you get to take care of yourself while they get to have fun, move their bodies, and hopefully (fingers crossed) tire themselves out before bed!
We will also be adding 4 treatment rooms for therapies that promote overall physical, emotional, and mental health and well-being. Imagine rejuvenating massage therapy, somatic therapy, and other holistic health offerings, all under the same roof as our studios.
Additionally, we're thrilled to introduce an infrared sauna to our offerings! This cutting-edge amenity will provide numerous benefits, including detoxification, relaxation, improved circulation, and pain relief. It's another step towards creating a comprehensive wellness experience for everyone who walks through our doors.
We have plans to expand our retail shop, bringing in dance, fitness, yoga, and streetwear that you won't be able to find anywhere else in Nelson! AND we know...we're dreaming BIG here, but we also have the plans to create a raw juice and smoothie bar, launching in year 2 (unless you help us get there sooner!). Literally... EVERYTHING under one roof.
Why Nelson?:
With expanding to 2 movement studios, it gives us the space to offer both adult classes and dance classes at the same time. We believe that movement is necessary for not only our physical health and wellbeing, but our emotional and mental health and wellbeing as well, and when we prioritize our health, we can show up in our relationships, with our children, at our jobs, and in our community more fully and wholeheartedly. Anyone who is a parent knows it’s a tough job and there’s not always time to choose yourself and your children. By expanding our space, we are hoping to offer a solution so you don’t have to choose one or the other, you can choose both.
We also want to offer our local community the luxury of SIMPLICITY. Having everything under one roof is one way to attain that simplicity.
Not only that, but by having more space to run more classes, offer more treatments, and expand our retail space, we will be bringing more jobs to the Nelson community, as well as responding to the increasing demand for community workshops and event space rentals.
Community and Connection:
What truly sets our studio apart is the sense of community that blossoms here. We want to create even more opportunities for connection by expanding our event offerings, and that includes having more space for the community to come and host their own events at Intuit. From wellness workshops and educational seminars to social gatherings and more, our enriched space will become a hub for like-minded individuals to come together, learn, move, express and grow.
How You Can Make a Difference:
By contributing to our crowdfunding campaign, you're not just helping us expand a physical space; you're investing in the well-being of our community. Your support will directly impact the lives of countless individuals, allowing us to provide more classes, more services, and more events that promote a healthier and more harmonious way of life.
Rewards:
To express our gratitude, we've curated a selection of rewards that reflect our commitment to your wellness journey. From exclusive passes, complimentary to our infrared sauna, complimentary products, and discounts on goods and services, each reward is designed to enhance your connection with our studio and our offerings.
Join Us on this Journey:
Intuit Studio has always been a collaborative effort, with each member of our community contributing to its growth and vibrancy. As we embark on this expansion endeavor, we invite you to stand with us once again and help us reach new heights of well-being, connection, and possibility.
Together, we can transform our space into a sanctuary that nurtures mind, body, and spirit. Let's enrich lives together—join our crowdfunding campaign today and be a part of something truly extraordinary.
Let's get INTUIT!
stay tuned for the official launch of our intuit expansion crowdfunding campaign!
FREE 15 MINUTE GROUNDING CORD VISUALIZATION PRACTICE
Enjoy this 15 minute Grounding Cord Meditation lead by Eden Dalton-Thompson, designed to help you get into your body, connect with your breath, and ground your energy so you can flow through your day with a deeper sense of stability.
BALANCE & STABILITY
Barre classes are coming back on the schedule this Fall! Keep your eye out for the new schedule drop SOON!
AT HOME BARRE SCULPT
Here’s a quick and accessible workout for you to do at home!
CIRCUIT 1: Repeat 2-3 times
Pulsing Donkey Kicks: 15-20 reps per leg
Hands and knees, shoulders over wrists, knees over hips, belly button pulled in towards the spine. 90 degree angle bend in the knee, pulse your heel up towards the ceiling. Alternate sides.
Knee Lifts: 10-15 reps
Hands and knees, shoulders over wrists, soft elbows, belly button pulled in towards the spine. Knees bent at 90 degrees, control the lift and lowering of your knees.
Side Plank Leg Lifts: 10-15 reps per side
Side plank, same arm and knee down. Extend top arm and leg out horizontally, then reach leg and arm up to the ceiling. Alternate sides.
Side Plank Crunch: 10-15 reps per side
Side plank, same arm and knee down. Extend top arm and leg out horizontally, then touch knee towards elbow. Alternate sides.
CIRCUIT 2: Repeat 2-3 times
Wide Leg Squat & Bicep Curl: 15-20 reps
Legs wider than shoulder width apart, knees bent over ankles. Arms extended out to the sides. Bicep curl in at the same time as you squat.
Lunge Pulses & Shoulder Fly: 15-20 reps
Lunge with one leg forward, bend front knee over ankle and back knee towards ground, arms open to sides at 90 degree bend. Bring elbows and wrists in to touch at the same time as you pulse. Alternate legs with each round.
CIRCUIT 3: REPEAT 2-3 TIMES
Backwards Leg Extension: 10-15 reps
Find a chair, counter, or back of the couch to steady you. Lower chest in line with hips. Extend 1 leg back, squeezing glute and hamstring muscles. Alternate sides.
Backwards Leg Extension Heel Lift: 10-15 reps
Hold last exercise position with leg extended behind you, raise and lower your heel.
Plié Heel Lifts: 10-15 reps
Knees bent over ankles, tuck pelvis under, pull belly button in towards your spine. Extend your arm out in front of you with a slight bend. As heels lift, extend arm up over head, return to first position. Alternate sides with each round.
Side Leg Extension: 10-15 reps
Full weight on 1 leg, same arm extended out to the side with a slight bend. Kick and extend leg out to the side, at the same time as you lift arm up by ear. Alternate sides.
HIKING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Hiking is not only an amazing movement exercise, but it’s also a great way to get outside, connect with nature, and regulate your nervous system.
Here’s a list of our favourite family friendly hikes and walks for you to enjoy this summer:
Check out the FAMILY FRIENDLY page from Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism to see what else Nelson has to offer for the whole family.
https://www.nelsonkootenaylake.com/discover/trip-ideas/family
FREE 30 Minute Slow Flow
This winter we offered a FREE 30 minute Slow Flow yoga class, and we are bringing it back for you to enjoy a 2nd time around!
Set up outside on your balcony or in your backyard, and connect to your body & breath with this free 30 minute class.
SUNS OUT 💪 GUNS OUT
Sun’s ☀️ out, so time to get those guns out 💪
If you haven’t joined one of our popular HIIT (high intensity interval training) classes yet… what are you waiting for?!
To stay ✨motivated✨ for your summer fitness goals we love these 3 tips:
1) set CLEAR goals
Define achievable goals for yourself to help you stay focused and motivated.
2) mix it UP!
Try out HIIT, then hit up a dance class, and stretch it out with some yoga. Keep trying new things and you won’t get bored with routine!
3) find a workout buddy 🥰
If you haven’t found one yet, our classes have plenty of super cool, like-minded folks for you to meet who can help keep you motivated.
Whatever you do to hit your fitness goals, we are happy to help and cheer 📣 you on!
HOW TO: Fitness Consistency During Summer
With summer comes schedule changes, and you may find that this is impacting your fitness routine.
Here are 4 tips to help you stay consistent with your fitness during the summer:
TAKE YOUR FITNESS OUTSIDE
Don’t feel like being in a studio, yoga class, or working out from home? Take your fitness routine outside! This can help you make the most of the summer sun (although we would suggest working out in the morning or evening when the sun isn’t too hot, or taking it to the shade or water), and get some fresh air while you workout.
SWAP WORKOUTS FOR ACTIVITIES
Need a break from your regular routine? Choose fun summer activities instead! Paddle boarding, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, running, and kayaking are all amazing and fun swaps for your normal workout regime.
INCLUDE YOUR KIDS
We know it can be challenging to find time throughout your day to prioritize yourself, your body, and your fitness with all the kids at home for summer break, so why not include your kids in the summer activities we suggested above? There are plenty of family friendly walks and hikes, you can go for a run and have your children ride their bikes beside you, have a family lake day and encourage your kids to try to swim faster than you, or take them paddle boarding for the first time. What feels like a workout for you, might feel like a whole lot of fun for your kids!
DONE IS BETTER THAN NONE
Try not to get hung up on what your fitness routine “should” look like, and give yourself permission to get it done imperfectly, even if that’s only 10 or 15 minutes in the morning before the rest of the house wakes up. At the end of the day, any movement or activity you do that gets your heart rate up, has you using your muscles, or makes your breathing a little faster is enough! There are some seasons for 1 hour long workout routines, classes, or personal training sessions, and some seasons for shorter workouts so you can be more present with your family and friends.
Hop Squats for hikers legs
Let’s get working that lower body!🏋️♀️
Hop squats are great for a burst of cardio as well as targeting your core, quads, glutes and hamstrings. 🔥
A great body weight exercise that is easy to do at home, follow along with our fitness instructor, Jane, to get the most of it!
SLOW FLOW MORNINGS
The perfect class to get you moving for the day, and a crowd favourite!
POST FESTIVAL STRETCHING
The festival fun and games are done, now what?
You’re most likely sore from days of dancing, exploring, playing, and having fun, so here are some stretches you can do to help support your body in recovering from your festival.
Follow this quick flow, and feel free to make it your own by listening to your body and what it needs!
