Why work out in a sweaty gym when you could be hitting the beach or the pool to get those endorphins pumping? Here are five classes we want to try in this glorious weather…
Yoga
Fancy a one-hour yoga class on the beach followed by a delicious breakfast and some downtime by the pool? Throw in the iconic backdrop of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and the five-star luxury of Summersalt Beach Club and you’ve got yourself a wellness experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a yoga novice or a seasoned pro, it won’t take long for you to find your flow as the serene rhythm of the waves takes you to a place of deep relaxation. The package is priced at Dhs500 and pre-booking is required.
Spin and shape
Head down to SALT at Kite Beach on Saturday mornings for an exhilarating start to your weekend with a Ride or Shape session from boutique fitness gym, CRANK. Known to many as the best spin studio in the city, CRANK has an army of loyal fans, but its friendly instructors are always welcoming to newcomers. With special edition silent discos on the agenda, this is a fun, full-body workout and the setting provides all the motivation you need. Come for the class, stay for the beach and burgers.
SUP x HIIT
This has got ‘only in Dubai’ written all over it. Enjoy a HIIT workout on a stand-up paddle board in the Instagrammable surroundings of Drift beach club every Tuesday and Saturday morning. Expect a supercharged 50-minute class which takes you through eight exercises over three rounds using resistance bands. The aim is to stay dry but prepare to get wet and wobbly and most importantly have fun.
Run
Want to start your weekend at a runner’s high? Head to Common Grounds, Kite Beach at 6.30 am on Saturdays and join Humantra Run Club. A social 5km run led by instructor and ultra-marathon finisher Sarah Stoneley, the vibe is friendly and energetic, the coffee is close by and it’s all about going at your own pace. All levels are welcome and the club has only recently been formed, so there’s no need to worry about feeling like the newbie!
Barre
A first for Dubai, instructor Sophie Malt has created a portable barre class that she is bringing to some of the most beautiful locations around the city and what better place to do barre than at the beach? Every Monday morning at Peaches and Cream, Palm Jumeirah, Sophie will put you through your paces with a workout that weaves together elements of dance, Pilates and yoga and is great for improving strength and flexibility. Or you can catch her at the outdoor rooftop area at Blended Wellness on Tuesday and Thursday for a similar class with sweeping views and feel-good vibes.