ANTIGRAVITY YOGA

What is it? Founded and developed by the former world-class gymnast and Broadway dancer Christopher Harrison, AntiGravity Yoga is a form of yoga that uses a silky hammock to support you as you carry out yoga and pilate moves all whilst you are suspended in the air.

Who is it good for? It is said to be great for those who want to exercise but suffer from joint pain and is a good for posture and body alignment. It is especially brilliant for flexibility and core strength.

What do I need? Wear long sleeved clothes and leggins to prevent the hammock from rubbing your skin. Also, make sure you don’t do it on a full stomach as it may be uncomfortable due to the spinning and pressure the hammock applies on your abdomen during some poses.

Where can I do it? It is currently available in Surrey, Belfast, Hertfordshire and West Sussex with classes in Richmond, Oxford and Manchester coming soon.

Website: www.antigravityyoga.com

How much? Prices vary depending upon location but start from around £10 per class.

BARREWORKS WORKOUT

What is it? The workout is designed around the ballet barre, and features dynamic and static movements, isometric holds resulting in exercises that strengthen. All exercises are performed to music. It’s deceptively challenging but you will be having too much fun to notice.

Who is it good for? If you want the body of a dancer (and let’s face it, who doesn’t) then these are a great place to start. You do not need any previous dance experience, you just need to be over 16.

What do I need? Wear bare feet or socks.

Where can I do it? The Barreworks studio is based in Richmond upon Thames. If that is too far for you, Barreworks has also just relased their own DVD “Barreworks Studio – Exercises with the Ball’ which will help you on your way to acheiveing a ballet body in no time.

Website: www.barreworks.co.uk

How much? A trial class is £10. Single classes are £20 after that.

AERIAL SKILLS WITH FLYING FANTASTIC

What is it? Aerial silks is when a doubled over length of material hangs from the ceiling, giving you a tool to climb, create figures and perform tricks and stunts. The variety of moves, drops, wraps, twists and turns are endless and create an ever-intriguing challenge whilst continuously strengthening your core muscles. Classes cater for all levels of ability.

Who is it good for? For those looking to improve their core, upper body, arms and legs this is a fantastic workout that will encourage all-over body toning. It works well alongside more traditional forms of exercise and is a brilliant way to break from the norm. Done regularly, aerial exercise can produce significant improvements in your flexibility, coordination, stamina and strength.

What do I need? You don’t need anything. Best not to wear loose clothing though, stick to leggings, hotpants, t-shirts and vests.

Where can I do it? The Wilditch Centre in Battersea SW11 5BB

Website: www.flyingfantastic.co.uk

How much? Classes start from £15 for a 1hr 40min work out.

NORDIC WALKING

What is it? First developed in Finland during the 1930s for cross-country skiers to keep fit in the summer, Nordic Walking evolved into more of a recreational activity in the early 1980s. It involves specially designed poles to enhance your natural walking. With a technique that is similar to cross country skiing, Nordic Walking is a whole body exercise engaging as much as 90% of the bodyʼs muscles.

Who is it good for? Itʼs great for fitness enthusiasts looking for something new and perfect for people who prefer exercising outdoors. It’s also suitable for those who suffer from arthritis or for an injured person as well as someone convalescing from hip or knee replacements who can use the poles to support and guide, working to improve fitness as part of their rehabilitation.

What do I need? Trainers or walking shoes designed to cushion and support feet and that provide surface grip. Waterproof footwear is advisable in the winter months. Nordic walking poles are usually provided by the instructor who can advise where to purchase them from if and when required. Trekking poles are NOT suitable as they do not have the correct hand-strap. Wear layers.

Where can I do it? Anywhere. There are instructors all over the country.

Website:  Visit either www.britishnordicwalking.org.uk or www.nownordic.co.uk