At Woodside, we believe that your fitness journey should be as unique as you are. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or just beginning to explore new ways to stay active, choosing the right workout class is key to staying motivated, reaching your goals and — most importantly — enjoying the process. One of our most popular options, the indoor cycling class, has become a favorite among members who love a mix of energy, music and cardio. But if high-intensity isn’t your thing, don’t worry — we offer a wide range of both high-intensity and low-impact classes to meet every preference and fitness level.
So how do you decide which workout is best for you? Let’s explore the benefits of both high-intensity and low-impact classes to help you make the best choice for your body and goals.
The Case for High-Intensity Workouts
If you’re looking for maximum calorie burn, improved endurance and a serious boost of energy, high-intensity workouts might be your ideal match. Classes like BOX + HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), BODYPUMP™ and SHOCK + SHRED, all available in our dynamic Group Fitness studios, are designed to push your limits. These classes combine strength, cardio and endurance exercises in a way that keeps your heart rate up and your muscles working.
One of the greatest benefits of high-intensity training is its afterburn effect — your body continues to burn calories long after your workout ends. This makes high-intensity workouts a time-efficient way to get results.
Our CYCLE // THE BEAT class is another standout in the high-intensity category. With energetic music, motivating instructors and a room filled with members ready to ride, these classes are not only a cardio blast but also a powerful lower body workout. You can expect to improve cardiovascular health, build leg strength and torch calories — all while feeling like you’re part of a vibrant community.
High-Intensity Workouts Are Great If You:
- Want to build endurance and burn fat quickly
- Enjoy fast-paced, energetic environments
- Thrive in challenging workouts that push your limits
- Have a foundation of fitness and are injury-free
The Benefits of Low-Impact Workouts
Not every journey to wellness needs to be intense — and that’s why our low-impact classes are just as essential to what we offer at Woodside. These classes are designed to be gentle on the joints, making them ideal for members recovering from injuries, dealing with chronic pain or simply preferring a more mindful approach to exercise.
Our Pilates Reformer sessions, for instance, focus on smooth, controlled movements that strengthen the core, improve posture and enhance flexibility without harsh impact on the body. These classes help develop long, lean muscles and a strong foundation for movement.
Yoga, another low-impact favorite at Woodside, offers stress relief, improved flexibility and balance training in a peaceful, supportive environment. Whether you choose a flowing Vinyasa class or a slower restorative practice, yoga helps connect breath to movement, leaving you refreshed and energized.
While often categorized as high-energy, even our indoor cycling class can be adapted to low-impact goals. Because cycling is non-weight-bearing, it protects joints while still offering a cardiovascular challenge — making it perfect for those seeking a middle ground between high intensity and joint care.
Low-Impact Workouts Are Ideal If You:
- Are recovering from injury or have sensitive joints
- Prefer gentle but effective workouts
- Want to focus on core strength, mobility and stability
- Enjoy mind-body connections like those found in yoga and Pilates
How to Choose What’s Right for You
With so many options — from intense strength training to calming yoga flows — how do you choose the right workout class at Woodside? Here are some factors to consider:
1. Assess Your Goals
What are you hoping to achieve? If weight loss and cardiovascular fitness are top priorities, high-intensity classes like an indoor cycling class or BODYPUMP™ may be your go-to. If you’re working on mobility, balance or injury recovery, consider Pilates or yoga to meet those goals in a safe and supportive way.
2. Know Your Body
Listen to what your body is telling you. If joint pain, chronic conditions, or past injuries are concerns, a low-impact class might be the better route. You can always work up to higher-intensity classes as your strength and confidence grow.
3. Consider Variety
One of the best ways to avoid plateaus and keep fitness fun is to mix it up. At Woodside, our class schedule is designed so members can seamlessly blend both high-intensity and low-impact classes. Pair a high-energy indoor cycling class on Monday with a gentle yoga flow on Tuesday to give your body both challenge and recovery.
4. Try New Things
Sometimes the best way to find your favorite workout is to try something new. Our community of members and expert instructors are always ready to welcome you into a new class. Whether it’s your first indoor cycling class or your first time on a Pilates Reformer, you’ll find the support you need to succeed.
The Power of Community at Woodside
No matter which workout style you choose, community is at the core of everything we do here at Woodside. Our classes are more than just fitness — they are an opportunity to connect, share goals and celebrate progress with others who care about wellness.
Whether you’re pushing through an intense indoor cycling class, flowing through yoga or working your core in Pilates, you’ll find instructors who are not only experts in their fields but also deeply committed to your personal journey. Our fitness floors and Group Fitness studios are thoughtfully designed to make every workout experience empowering and enjoyable.
We also know that wellness extends beyond workouts — which is why our members love to unwind in the spa, enjoy a meal at Earthbar or relax poolside after a great class. It’s all part of the balanced lifestyle we encourage at Woodside.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Workout?
Whether you’re ready to turn up the heat in a high-energy indoor cycling class or embrace a more mindful Pilates or yoga session, Woodside has something for everyone. Our wide range of classes, expert instructors and supportive community ensure that you’ll find a workout you love — and one that helps you meet your personal fitness goals.
If you’re ready to experience everything Woodside has to offer, join now or book a tour today and let us help you choose the best workout classes for you!
Your club awaits — see you on the floor (or the bike seat)!
