It’s hard to get into a workout routine, especially depending on your work schedule. While my office building offers a gym, there aren’t any classes. And the gyms that do, most of the classes start at time where it’s just not possible with my schedule. It takes me about an our to get home from work (that’s if weather is perfect), and a lot of classes start around 5:30-6:30. I can’t always make those times, which kinda sucks. Plus let’s face it, gyms are expensive. Do I want to pay $80-$90 a month? Not if I can help it! That’s why I love Xpose Fitness. What is it? It’s a studio that offers classes centered around exotic dancing. They offer different levels of pole classes, floor/chair, plus yoga and stretch related classes! Now, Xpose Fitness is a local chain, but you can find similar studios and classes all over the country. The best part though is the fact there’s no contract. You can just drop in whenever you want, or sign up for a class card where you save a little bit. I normally go the class card route and get 12 classes at a time. They have the best schedule too. They offer a number of classes later in the evening and on the weekends! At the moment, I’ve been sticking to taking the Saturday morning Floor/Chair class. I want to add a weekday class as well, but just need to find one that works best with my schedule.

The main reason I really enjoy the classes is the fact it’s fun! It doesn’t feel like a workout, but don’t be fooled. You will be feeling it. There have been times where my ass is still store two days later. Each teacher is different too, which means one class might focus on arms, another on legs, while the next class might be abs. Plus everyone is so nice, from the teachers to the other ladies who are working out with you. And yes, 99% of the classes are ladies only. I think they offer two co-ed classes, one being yoga related. Don’t let the “exotic dance” aspect scare you either. No one is actually stripping, everyone is different shapes and sizes. It’s a really relaxed and wonderful atmosphere. How do the classes work? Well we start with a warm up, then we’re taught different “moves” which are actually exercises. Then at the end of the class we put everything together into a little routine, followed up by a cool down. It’s about 50 minutes. We use a chair and do some moves on the floor as well. It’s why I need to upgrade my yoga mat! I need some more padding for these knees. I do wear stripper heels during class because believe it or not, it makes it easier. I have short legs (shocker), so anytime we do something over the chair (like squats), my legs would hit the sides and it just wasn’t working. The extra height provided by the heels does make a huge different. You don’t need them though! Plenty of people take the classes just in socks. And some of the classes require sneakers.

If you’re looking for a similar studio in your area, I suggest checking Groupon or Living Social first! I know Xpose offers deals on there and it’s a nice way to see what’s in your area. You can always search online for “Exotic Dance Workouts” or a similar phrase. Ask your friends too! Some people might not want to put it out there for whatever reason, but just ask if they know of any different or fun gym classes in the area. It really is a great time and I recommend it to everyone. Some might even offer free intro classes, I know Xpose does. If you have any questions, drop them in the comments and I’ll try to answer them!