Ditch the gym + try something new at these 9 Birmingham workout studios
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I don’t know about you, but sometimes the traditional gym setting just doesn’t cut it. If you’re looking for a change from the treadmills, elliptical and machines that you have no idea how to use, check out these nine local workout studios offering a fun, personalized experience—sweat and sore muscles included.
Aero Joe Pilates
Pilates
Aero Joe Pilates is Birmingham’s longest running pilates studio and probably best known for their fun, aerial yoga classes which has definitely been on my bucket list. Unfortunately, COVID put that aspect on hold, but you can still get a good workout in. Right now, they’re offering in-studio private pilates lessons and small group pilates classes for up to five people.
COVID safety precautions
- Equipment sanitized + spaced for distancing
- All staff undergo daily wellness check + wear masks
- Learn more about their community wellness policies
Battle Republic
Boxing + strength training
Take a class at Battle Republic and you’ll leave feeling like a total bada**. This boxing-inspired gym uses HIIT and strength training combined with a killer playlist. Whether you had a bad day at work or just need to blow some steam, Battle Republic encourages you to put in the work all while having fun doing it. Right now classes are limited to allow 12 feet between your boxing stations so don’t hesitate to sign up.
COVID safety precautions
- Masks required to enter, exit and must be worn until class starts
- Arrive only 5 minutes before class
- Hand sanitation stations available
- Heightened disinfecting procedures before + after classes
- Staff temperature checks before each shift
- Air purification system in HVAC systems installed
- Locations: 2800 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209 | 333 Summit Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35243
- Website | Facebook | Instagram | Sign up for their virtual classes
Club Pilates
Pilates
At Club Pilates, they encourage you to move, feel and live better. No matter your age or level of fitness, there’s a pilates class with your name written all over it. Club Pilates offers the best equipment to ensure your fitness goals. Soon after taking a few classes, you’ll enjoy better posture, balance, flexibility, and strength.
COVID safety precautions
- Reduced studio class size
- Studio and equipment are sanitized between classes
- When booking in-studio classes, you must verify that you’re in good health
- Learn more about their studio health and safety measures
- Locations: 3169 Green Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35243 | 1839 Montgomery Hwy Ste. D, Hoover, AL 35244
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
CORE
Pilates + Cycling + Bootcamp
CORE believes core fitness is the key to health. They offer cycling, bootcamp, pilates, yoga and private training if you’re not ready to be in a class setting. Classes are for all levels, ages, genders and interests. Oh, and let’s not forget that your first class is free.
COVID safety precautions
- Limited class size to ensure social distancing
- Visitors are asked to be in good health
- Personal training available if not comfortable in classes
Gauntlet Fitness
Kickboxing + boxing
Your workout doesn’t have to be long to be effective. At Gauntlet Fitness you get the most effective workout all while having fun and kicking butt. This kickboxing and fitness studio utilizes 45 minutes because if you’re mentally engaged and committed to pushing yourself, that’s all you need.
COVID safety precautions
- Members must wear mask when entering, exiting and while waiting for class to start
- Duct tape boxes on floor to ensure everyone stays 6 feet apart
- Additional sanitation before, during and after class
- Classes cut in half and limited to 8 people
Ignite Cycle
Cycling
Lights down, music up! I’ll try not to be biased here, but Ignite Cycle kicks your butt in the best way imaginable. As Birmingham’s only boutique cycling studio, you’re encouraged to give your all, one pedal stroke at a time to today’s top hits, timeless classics and everything in between. If you need a little extra TLC, owner Tiffany Martin is offering one-on-one 30 minute classes.
COVID safety precautions
- Classes have been moved from their studio to an open air dock
- Bikes are spaced 10 feet apart
- Masks are required when entering and exiting
- Staff screened before shifts
- Location: 224 29th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233 (NOTE: Currently located at their open air dock at 611 28th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35233)
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
MPower Pilates + Cycling
Pilates + cycling
MPower recently expanded in Mountain Brook. They combine Megaformer with cycle training for a balance of fun and intense. The Megaformer melds together pilates, cardio and stability training. Turns out MPower is the only place in Birmingham teaching this method.
COVID safety precautions
- Guests are required to wear masks when entering and exiting. Wearing a mask during class is recommended
- Doors are left open, so dress accordingly
- Locations: 2419 Canterbury Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223 | 1117 Dunston Ave, Birmingham, AL 35213 | 2008 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
Three15
Cycling + barre + strength training
If you get bored easily with your workouts, this may just be for you. Three15 combines three fitness concepts into 15 minute increments—cycling, barre and strength training. It’s challenging, fast paced, always encouraging and makes you leave class feeling unstoppable. New riders can try Three15 by attending a free basic class held on the first Saturday of each month. All you need to do is download their app and create an account.
COVID safety precautions
- Bikes are spaced at least 6 feet apart
- Masks must be worn until seated on your bike
- Studio doesn’t open until 10 minutes before class + guests’ temperatures are taken
- New air purifiers in studio + doors opened during barre
- Sanitation of equipment between classes
- Locations: 1017 Oxmoor Rd #211, Birmingham, AL 35209 | 2217 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
True40
Barre + low-impact strength training
True40 is designed with you in mind. The workouts are low-impact and high-powered with a unique mixture of cardio bursts, controlled movements and dynamic stretching. No matter your body type or fitness level, True40’s scientifically sound workout can be done by anyone.
COVID safety precautions
- Classes are half capacity
- Client temperatures are taken at the door
- Masks are required before and after class
- Clients are asked to stay at their designated station for entire workout