It has occurred to me that exercise classes can be a little off-putting for men. Most of the classes I have attended or have taught have been dominated by women. I also know of far more female teachers than I do men. Add in my passion for supporting women through their menopausal years and my classes can appear to be a bit of an all-girls club! But nothing could be further from the truth.
I think my classes have got a lot to offer the men of the South Hams. For example, I have several male dancers in my Zumba class, and I love that they are there. You can spot three in this photo! I have also welcomed a couple of male participants into my new village hall Pilates classes.
Men need to take care of themselves too and there is nothing written in law that says that cannot do Zumba or Pilates! Just because you’re a man, it does not mean you must go to the gym and lift big weights or don head-to-toe Lycra and jump on your bike every weekend. These fitness clichés work wonders for some chaps, but it is about what works for you.
Dancing is great for staying nimble and just having fun. Zumba is uplifting and joyful. It helps you with balance and stamina, while releasing some tension along the way. Pilates is mat based, so less sweating involved, but ticks the box when it comes to building strength and flexibility. These are key for everyone but especially as we get a bit older.
Classes are also great social gatherings. People make friends in fitness classes as everyone attending wants the same thing…to feel a little bit better. That is an empowering group aim and friendships spring up along the way as classmates spend time with each other and become comfortable as a group.
It can be a little off-putting joining a seemingly established group, but never let that prevent you from exercising. The classes I teach are very welcoming and I make it easy for you to learn the steps or moves in super-quick time. The important thing is that you are there and doing something to get moving!
So gents, please do not be shy. You are more than welcome to any of my classes whether in person or online. You will definitely feel better for it.