group fitness classes

I used to be of the attitude that I could easily get a better workout on my own and didn't need group fitness classes. While it is true that I've gone on many long runs and have exhausted myself, I find a strong value in group fitness classes now that I am not training for anything specific.
I have participated in 3 different classes: bootcamp, tabata, and abs.

Bootcamp is a tough class, and may involve some running (though not very far), core exercises, lifting light weights quickly, and general muscle burnout. This class has made me sweat hard every time, and has even made me dizzy a couple times when I was ill-prepared. I often feel the after effects of this class the next day.

Tabata is similar to bootcamp, but every move is only done for 20 seconds, then you get a 10 second break (usually just to do an easier exercise). You repeat this over and over, and it doesn't take long before it becomes very tough. With enough repetition, any move is tough, and that is what this class is all about.

Abs class is pretty straightforward. We perform movements to engage the core muscles. The class goes for 10-15 minutes, so its never easy.

Another benefit of group fitness classes is the fact that you are doing the workout with others. I find that I will push myself a little harder when others are around.

If you are on the fence over a group fitness class, give it a try.

Red bull "Crashed Ice" in Saint Paul

Near the Cathedral in St. Paul, there was a lot more going on than usual from the 12-14th of January. Red Bull cae to town with another one of it's extreme events. Attracting thousands of people to watch skaters go down a track of ice with jumps and other obstacles, it was fun to watch. I didn't see too many crazy wipeouts, but there certainly were a few.

The biggest surprise to me was just how big the ice track was. It stretched from the cathedral down a couple of blocks. It took them a couple of weeks to put up, and I know it took some serious generators to keep the track frozen. You could hear them humming the days before the event. They have since cleaned it all up, but it certainly created a lot of temporary jobs for the building ad take down.

I know the event was filmed, so I'm sure there are plenty of highlights on red bull's website. Check it out if you want to see an action packed sport that you doesn't take long to understand.

No Snow in Minnesota-Yet

January in Minnesota- usually not the most comfortable place to go, has been unseasonably warm and snow-free this year.

I recently went "winter camping", though, it didn't get much below about 25 degrees outside, not exactly your cold adventure. We've seen temperatures over 40 several days already. As far as the snow goes? Nothing worth noting, especially when you compare this year to last, where I went snowshoeing several times already by this time.

There have been some positives, though. I'm getting the feeling a few more people are actually sticking to their new years resolutions! People are still running and walking all over the place outside. I've also seen many people out riding their bikes and rollerblading on the trails in Minneapolis. Of course, it also makes for a more mild walk to work in the morning.

I'm looking forward to skiing, snowshoeing, and more winter camping, but we'll need some more snow!