Bikini season = panic mode? Not anymore. Summer’s just around the corner, and if the thought of dragging yourself to the gym for another endless slog on the treadmill makes you groan, you’re not alone. The good news: Johannesburg’s fitness scene offers plenty of ways to get that snatched summer body of your dreams, without a sweaty gym or burpee in sight. Here’s a list of workouts you’ll actually want to do, and where to find them.
The Only Rebound We Approve Of
Cardio that doesn’t feel like punishment. Jump around like you used to as a little kid while strengthening your legs, glutes, and core. There are rebounding studios all over Joburg — check out Jump-aholics or Jump&Glow!
Image: @jumpglowsa
Straight To The Top (Safely)
Take on a full-body strength and endurance challenge that’s as mental as it is physical. Climbing builds upper body, core, and grip strength while improving balance. It’s giving Spiderman, minus the spandex.
Take a look at City Rock or Friends and Allies.
Image: @cityrock_jhb
Reformer Pilates: Slow, Controlled, and Brutally Effective
Reformer pilates seems to have exploded in popularity overnight, and there’s a reason why. They may look a little scary, but these machines are a low-impact one-way ticket to building strength and toning muscles you didn’t even know you had. Check out COOR Studio and Pilates Connection to see what all the hype’s about.
Image: @coor_studio
“Parkour!” – Michael Scott, The Office
Flipping off a wall isn’t just for stuntmen anymore. Improve your agility, coordination, and confidence through a full-body workout. As a bonus, you’ll end up with an impressive set of party tricks. Check out Concrete Foundation and Spring Parkour!
Aerial Yoga: Inner Peace, Sculpted Abs
Elevate your yoga practice—literally. You’ll work through different shapes while hanging from a hammock. It’s easy on the joints, targets all muscle groups, and fantastic for both balance and flexibility. Try an aerial yoga class at Storm Studios or Sandton Yoga Lounge!
Image: @sandtonyogalounge
Unleash Your Inner Karate Kid
Throw, tackle, and grapple your way to a physique that says Instagram model. Martial arts is all about endurance, strength, and coordination. For us externally-motivated folk, there are optional gradings and competitions to work towards. There may be bruises, but never boredom! Try Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Creonte BJJ or judo at Kazuno Judo.
Image: @creonte_bjj_gym
Switch Playground
If the gym is monotonous and you’re down for something more lively, this fast-paced HIIT workout is for you. Follow Switch trainers through 21 workout stations while a live DJ drowns out the sound of your muscles crying. It’s a bit like being in a club, except you walk out with abs.
Image: @switchplaygroundsa
Calisthenics: No Strings Attached
It’s impossible to look uncool doing a handstand, and learning to work with your own bodyweight is a uniquely challenging fitness endeavour. With no weights or fancy equipment involved, you can take this full-body workout anywhere. Master the basics and get your first pull-up at Elevate Athletic or Defianz!
Image: @elevate.athletic_
Strength Of A Beast, Body Of A Beauty
Toss away the outdated stereotypes — this is one of the toughest, most rewarding workouts out there. Pole dancing demands equal parts artistry and athleticism, so you’ll sculpt your whole body while building insane strength and control. Take a class at Elevate Fitness Studio or Pole Playground!
Image: @elevatefitness.studio
Throwing Hands, The Right Way
Boxing is a high-intensity workout that gets your heart rate high and fires up every major muscle group. Footwork, speed, and strength combine to improve endurance, coordination, and core stability. It’s also a great stress reliever, so we highly recommend it after a long day at work. Give it a bash at Urban Warrior Boxing, or try a ladies-only class at one of the many Miss Fit studios in Joburg.
Image: @missfit_studios
Who says getting fit has to be torture? Not us. Investing in your health should be fun, and outside of traditional commercial gyms, Joburg’s fitness scene is basically a playground for adults. Gather your squad, pick your challenge, and start sweating. This year, that bikini is afraid of you.
Prefer to work on your health from home? Here’s a guide to some of our favourite apps that may help you achieve your goals.
