Back in January I wrote about my POV on the pursuit of wellness. Boutique fitness is so prevalent in New York and I’ve totally gotten swept up in it but as I’ve battled with my weight, I’ve sought out what really works for me. I wanted to share a bit of an update today (particularly because so many people had asked me to share my experience with ClassPass after finding out I was signing up!)

In January I quit the gym and signed up for ClassPass. What I had discovered about myself was that signing up for classes was the only way to keep me honest. If I was trying to go to the gym, I rarely went. I was paying an arm and a leg for a fancy gym and never going. When I signed up for ClassPass, a lot changed. I found the competitor in me loves going after the classes I want. I also truly appreciate the variety it offers. My favorite classes are barre, yoga and spin classes. I also supplement my membership by going to SoulCycle 1-2 times per week. (I love it and can’t give it up. It’s like therapy.) And hey, if you find workouts you can declare you love, that’s success in my book!

So all that being said, there are certainly drawbacks to ClassPass. There aren’t enough classes to accommodate how many members there are. Some studios are seemingly impossible to get into it and now the price is also going up (from $99 to $125.) But in the end I think ClassPass has made me so much more effective at making fitness a priority. I feel stronger, more fit and all around just more dedicated than I was in years past.

Recently I also had the opportunity to try Physique 57 (which is on ClassPass as well) and absolutely loved it.

(This was first thing in the a.m. – kindly excuse the sleepy eyes – ha!)

I headed back there to shoot these photos, as you can tell, and I highly recommend checking out their classes. They blend intervals of cardio, strength training and stretching and my god – do you get a stellar workout in your rear, arms, thighs and abs. I was sore for several days following my class, but in the best way possible. The class went by seemingly so fast which I always feel is a good sign. I can’t wait to get back from CA in August to start going more regularly. (They guarantee noticeable results in just 8 classes – huzzah!) And, for the record I also found it to be far more engaging and interesting than other barre classes I have taken.

(As an aside, if you’re in NYC and want to take a class together…let me know!)

Over the past few months I’ve also figured out a way to prioritize fitness. It seems so simple but just by marking 4 days on my calendar to hold for workouts, I find that I’m so much better at scheduling myself and my social calendar. Now that I am more committed, I genuinely miss working out when I don’t do it. (My half marathon in May also helped keep me dedicated and challenged, too!) And not for nothing…but having great gear has also helped me want to hit my workouts. I’m wearing Champion in this post (my roommate reps them and was kind enough to hook me up!) which I love (so affordable and they make my favorite sports bras – game changer for those of us with a chest).

(I’m in love with this sign at the Soho Physique 57 studio!)

So in the end, I’ve really learned that you get out of working out what you put into it. Making it a part of your routine will make you more successful and seeking out ways to make it more fun and less work will increase your odds in feeling (and looking) better and stronger.

Have you tried ClassPass? What are your thoughts? How do you say committed to fitness? I’d love to hear any tips you have! While I’m definitely better than I was at prioritizing in years past, it is still of course always hard to stay motivated so I’d love to hear about your experiences!

Shop the Post:

Champion Jacket (not yet available but similar here), Show Off Bra, Pants (not yet available but similar here) and Tank

Nike Sneakers (obsessed with them)

LO & Sons OMG Bag (more on this genius little bag here)

p.s if you haven’t yet checked out the array of workout gear available in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale – don’t delay!

[Bekka Palmer Photography]