New year, new me? That’s a classic — and it can be true when you find the right workout routine. What many people don’t realize is that plenty of fitness studios offer free first-time classes, making it easy to explore different options without committing to a membership.
So, that’s what I did. I tried several workout routines offered across the Coast — and here’s what you need to know.
YOGA
If your goal is to get into better shape not just physically, but also mentally, then practicing yoga may be perfect for you. It builds strength and flexibility, but also helps you feel grounded and focused.
The best part of yoga is that everyone is on their own journey. You don’t have to be flexible or master all the poses right away. Most people in the room are just doing their best and moving at their own pace. This is a space without competition and comparison.
Most yoga studios offer mats to borrow, so show up wearing comfortable clothing with slip-on shoes. And don’t forget your water bottle!
SPIN
If you want to sweat, spin is a great option. These classes are typically held in a dim room with upbeat music, so it almost feels like a party. There’s a lot of pedaling and resistance changes involved, but since you control your own resistance, it can be very beginner-friendly.
Just be prepared — cycling is high-intensity cardio, so you may feel completely wiped out afterwards. If you’re new to cycling, I recommend you arrive a few minutes early to find and set up your bike correctly.
BARRE
Inspired by ballet, Pilates and strength training, barre focuses on small, controlled movements to target specific muscle groups. Over time, this creates long, lean muscles.
The movements are tiny, but they burn almost immediately. Everyone in the room is silently shaking together. Make sure you embrace it! Wear clothing you can move around in, and expect a lot of core and leg work.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Trying out new classes can be intimidating at first, but sampling different styles can help you find which workouts and studios feel right for you. Let’s stay motivated all 2026!
Another thing to consider is that our library system offers a surprising variety of free, drop-in classes. This is a great way to stay active while also supporting library programs.