So you’ve rung in the New Year in serious style and have had a day or two to dry out your liver (we hope). There’s no time like the present to kick things off on the right (and health-minded) foot, so why not challenge yourself to work up a sweat and feel better as the new year rolls in. Rather than simply hitting the gym or regular aerobic class, why not check out some of Vancouver’s alternatives to fitness to spice things up? We’ve source a few for consideration…

Bikram Yoga Vancouver
An alternative to all those courses offered by YYoga that amps up the heat factor just a tad (see below) is Bikram Yoga. With a handful of convenient locations around YVR, it’s the perfect way to sweat through a mind-bending and body-flexing yoga challenge (all 26 positions, that is). Starting this month, they’ve got a great yoga challenge up for offer (15 classes for under $200) that will have you feeling fit, flex (and slim) in no time.

YYoga
This is a definite go-to spot for yogis of all sorts in the city. They’re one of the largest networks of yoga studio and lifestyle centres (who’ve also set up shop in Toronto as of late, too) and offer a plethora of classes and cleansing options. There are about ten different studios to choose from in YVR – with everything from Yin to Power Core, Hot to Spin. Watch their workshop schedule this month for other ways to explore the world of yoga. Check out the Be Light event coming up later in January.

Cadence Spinning
Who doesn’t love a mix of hardcore cardio melded with upbeat tunes that help you peel off the pounds? Reserve your seat online for these popular 45-minute classes that always fill up. They’ve designed each class to help participants build strength, gain energy and endurance by setting your pedal strokes to the beat of the music. Spinning will have you working up a sweat in five minutes flat and is great for all fitness levels and cycling abilities. The goal at Cadence is that each participant walks away with their own unique experience. New to this style of exercise? No problem… they offer the first class for free (with shoes included).

Barre Fitness
This relatively new-to-town exercise regime combines a touch of Pilates with yoga stretching and the fine-tuned balance of ballet. Unlike a hardcore cardio or hot yoga class, you won’t necessarily walk out drenched in sweat – but you’ll definitely feel the burn (and see results!). You’ll work out all your muscles and then some, whether it’s an Express Barre, Power Barre, Cardio Barre or Bootcamp class that you opt for (to name a few). No doubt, you’ll walk away with increased flexibility, stability, and will feel stronger mentally and physically.

The Tight Life
This is all the rage and a great way to combine personal training with ongoing lifestyle coaching that incorporates both a nutrition and fitness factor, chef included. It’s the perfect 3-week fix to your daily regime and guaranteed to get you in shape while achieving a healthy balance (no crash and burn post workout here). Join a close-knit group of likeminded individuals for group exercise circuits based out of the standalone gym. Receive one-on-one nutrition advice from an in-house nutritionist and quality eats post-workout (courtesy of the chef). Schedules are flexible and fun – and will have you looking your tightest. New challenges are starting as of January 18th so sign up today.