In our last article, we looked at the benefits of classes and group-based exercise on both body and mind. And integral to all successful gym and health club class programs is getting the right blend of classes. As well as the traditional high-intensity CV classes, members expect a healthy offering of other sessions such as yoga, pilates and balance/stretch classes.

Yoga is now a mainstay of almost all class-based programs, and the benefits are well documented. Improved flexibility, posture and strength are top of the list, but other such as reduced stress, better breathing, and mindfulness are equally as important. One class a week is a good starting point, but a more regular commitment delivers increased benefits. Some people try to attend classes at least 5 times a week; it almost becoming a daily de-stress mechanism.

The unpredictable weather in this country means that most yoga classes are delivered inside. This is not the case in warmer climes, where yoga in the open air has added benefits including natural light, gentle breeze, fresh air, and better connectivity to nature. Water has even been introduced, with a huge rise in stand-up paddleboarding yoga in recent years.

One way of combining both an increased frequency of yoga classes, and a different environment, is to go on a yoga retreat. In the past the past attending a yoga retreat might have been met with raised eyebrows by family and friends, but now they are becoming increasingly important as a way to counterbalance busy work and family schedules.

Yoga retreats have also embraced the luxuries more commonly associated with spa breaks. Excellent accommodation, healthy food choices, and stunning locations are now the dorm. And specifically, in relation to stunning locations, then there can be no better place to mix all the elements than in the Lake District.

Not surprisingly there has been a rise in yoga retreats in the Lake District, and Choices Health Clubs have a clear head start given that one of their flagship clubs is located at the very heart of this region in Bowness-on-Windemere. They are now making use of this facility by offering a range of high-quality short break yoga retreats coupled with all the facilities at their gym and spa too.

More information on these yoga retreats is available online at Choices Yoga Retreats, or by speaking to one of the team directly on 01539 447437