Just breathe
The same-old, same-old routine of elliptical, Stepmill, weights, repeat can get a bit boring, so I was psyched to try a new workout yesterday at a gorgeous, Zen-infused spa in Chicago called exhale (they also have locations in Boston, San Diego, NY, and more). Called Core Fusion®, the mind-body class is described on the website as "a Pilates-infused transformational fitness experience." As such, I was expecting a relaxing, yoga-type class.
Oh, no.
This 60-minute class kicked my ass as it set to firming it. There was mat work, repetitive light weights, lots of isometric exercises and also some barre work, which left my abs and butt burning and sweat trickling down my back, despite the fact I was only lifting my leg about an inch at a time. (Imagine sitting beneath a ballet barre, facing the wall, one leg bent in front of you and one behind. Now, holding onto the barre, lift your back leg and knee off the floor while keeping it parallel - if you get a Charlie Horse in your glutes, you're doing it right.) At points, my body was shaking, then aching, but all in a "Trust me, this is for your own good" kind of way.
Sore by the time class ended, I felt like I had just gotten a unique workout - one that would probably result in washboard abs and a butt you can bounce a quarter off of if taken on a regular basis. Plus, you get to wear fun yoga clothes and workout in your socks, then clean off beneath a rainfall shower, maybe get a thai massage or some acupuncture and buy a delicious-smelling lemon and gignger soy candle on your way out.
If you live near an exhale spa, why not stop by and try a class - it's a new challenge and the atmosphere is ultra-relaxing. And did I mention, there's a fancy gong? Because there is, and as a wise woman once said, anywhere there's a gong is worth going.
PS How excited was I to happen upon the much-talked about but rarely seen Christmas L on the way home from exhale? I heard the train coming as I descended into the subway so I started hustling and when I reached the bottom, I was greeted with an L car that looked like Ed Debevics had puked all over it. Tinsel, ribbons, candy cane-striped poles, red- and green-tinted overhead lights, fake ads and a Real Live Elf (OK, a Chicago Transit Authority employee dressed up) handing out candy canes. How can you not be cheered up when your public transportation looks so ridiculously cheesy and fun and The Chipmunks are singing their Christmas song? Thanks, Chicago!
Comments
HI Leslie,
I loved reading this post! I'm so excited to use my EXHALE spa gift certificate this January (purchased by me, for me), so I can too, have washboard abs!
I'm hoping you might join me sometime?
Beth :)
