The Fayette Citizen-Sports Page

Wednesday, January 30, 2002

High energy classes at Gold's Gym are a hit with students

By JANET McGREGOR
snippets@bellouth.net

Body Training Systems have been a huge success in New Zealand for over 20 years. In the United States, the classes are attracting a lot of attention due to the fast results participants realize, however, they're still considered one of the newest "hot" classes to be added to a gym's schedule.

The classes are successful mainly because they work, they're fun and the routines are not overly confusing. Rich Boggs, President of BTS, says, "The class content is consistent, the complexity is controlled and they are designed to get results." Those who've taken the classes unanimously agree with Boggs - they work and they work quickly.

Locally, one of the instructors at Gold's Gym, already fit, noticed a loss of almost two-inches in her hips after only three months of taking the class.

There are a number of class types included in the Body Training System including BODYSTEP and BODYPUMP, two of the most popular classes.

BODYSTEP is a versatile program that can be self-regulated by participants by simply increasing or decreasing the step height. The routines are simple making it easy for participants to lose fat and gain muscle. BODYSTEP is a simple, athletic workout that shapes and tones the entire lower body and pushes fat burning systems into high gear.

BODYPUMP is designed for all ages and fitness levels. Participants use specially designed barbells with adjustable weights. Every major muscle group is worked in the class and, per Boggs, "It is simply the fastest way in the universe to get in shape."

According to Linda Famularo, Fitness Manager for the Gold's Gym of Fayette County, she is frequently asked whether they will end up with huge muscles by women. "Many women believe they will become muscle bound if they do any kind of workout designed to add muscle. This simply isn't true. Women slim down and tone up, they are not built to look like the weight-lifters seen in some magazines. Men, however, should see some gains in muscle size."

Both classes are choreographed and use upbeat, popular music to make the classes more enjoyable. Those taking a class can expect to be motivated by tunes from current artists like Ricky Martin, Madonna or whoever is singing the latest upbeat songs.

One thing that many members - and instructors - like about the classes is that they are consistent. According to Boggs, "You know what you'll get every time you take a class. Just like Starbucks - you can count on finding the same consistency every time you take a class."

The contents of the class are pre-choreographed allowing class participants to learn the moves easily and to concentrate on results rather than learning new steps or moves each time they take a class. The routines are changed every 90 days to add more variety.

Class members say they are never bored. Another benefit many notice is increased coordination.

You can find the classes in over 50 countries and over 6,000 fitness centers worldwide. In Fayette County, the three Gold's Gym locations are the only clubs to offer the classes. Call 770-631-9901, Gold's Gym Peachtree City West, 770-716-7090, Fayetteville or 770-487-4273, Gold's Gym Peachtree City East for a current schedule or more information.

 


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