Always assuming that I’m going to be good at everything, before I actually have a go: I volunteered to try out the high intensity, low impact workout class: PiYo with Niamh in York. The verdict? It’s the perfect tonic for any tired fitness routine, whatever the goal.
What is PiYo?
PiYo combines yoga, pilates and cardio in a high intensity, low impact workout. The classes help build strength, improve flexibility and burn calories. You can expect plenty of lunges, squats and planks, as well as yoga poses like the downward-facing dog and sun salutation, all to energetic music.
Is it hard?
Yes. I’d be lying if I said I found the class easy, but difficulty is in the eye of the beholder. With every routine we went through, Niamh, our instructor, suggested little alterations that could be done to make the exercises less intense. I ignored these in favour of the tougher workout.
Yoga experience really isn’t essential though, and by the end of each section I’d caught up with the routines (and I’m a complete novice). Niamh explained each routine clearly before we started, and offered advice afterwards on how to improve the moves after each section.
Did it hurt?
The golden question when it comes to exercise! It only hurts in the good way that exercise should: I felt the burn in my thighs after about 30 minutes into the class and it lasted until we finished. Two days after I’d been to PiYo, I felt like I’d had the workout of my life and walking was tricky.
Was it fun?
It was SO fun. Niamh has so much energy and really spurred me on through the tougher parts. I found myself grinning through most of it, partly in disbelief at how out of breath I was. It’s refreshing to listen to upbeat pop tunes while doing yoga poses like the downward dog, and you’re never stuck in the same pose for long: this class moves fast.
Would you go again?
Absolutely, I’m signing up.
When can I go?
Classes are £6 and run on Wednesdays 8pm-9pm, Thursdays 8pm-9pm and Sundays 9am-10am at St Olave’s School, Queen Anne’s Road, York.
To book visit Niamh’s Facebook page here. Or call her on 07901 916126.
Krystal Starkey writes about lifestyle and culture across York. Want to get in touch? Email krystal@yourlocallink.co.uk
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