Reader question - "Your opinion on Les Mills classes?"

Let's get back to the reader questions. I've had a couple good ones as of late...

Good morning Kim,

I'd like to know what do you think about the Les Mills Body Training Systems.

Thanks,
Henrique

Thanks for the question, Henrique!
I wasn't 'in the know' about the Les Mills fitness programs - but I did some research, and I'd be happy to give you my opinion from what I've read and seen. Obviously, I've never taken a class, so I cannot give you a complete testimonial or position statement - but I appreciate that you'd like to hear my thoughts :)

First off, for those of you who are unawares...
All over the world, gyms have implemented pre-programmed group fitness classes, created by the LES MILLS Group Fitness System. These classes include:


BodyAttack- a sports-inspired cardio workout, complete with interval training

BodyBalance- a holistic, calming class, involving elements of yoga, pilates, and tai chi

BodyCombat- a cardio kickboxing type of class, combining skills from karate, boxing, Tae Kwon Do, Muay Thai, and Tai Chi

BodyJam- a funky, hip-hop-style dance class

BodyPump- a barbell class with basic strength exercises

BodyStep- a modern step class with some cross training

BodyVive- a low-impact workout with stability balls, tubing, and small hand weights

RPM- a high-energy spin class


Basically, the Les Mills Body Training System involves a variety of challenging classes filled with movement, high energy, and up-beat music.

Anything that involves movement... motion... activity... major muscle stimulation...
can NOT be a bad thing.

I am not going to reprimand anyone for taking part in these classes. I'm not going to say that they are a waste of time. I will only commend those who participate because the classes do involve more challenging forms of physical activity.


That being said...
I do find negative aspects to these classes.

#1 - The classes are pre-programmed. New choreography and music are created for each class every 3 months. Now, some gyms may alternate between new and old choreography. But for those individuals who spend oodles of time doing these classes alone, even that small amount of variation will not help to progressively overload the body toward one's desired results! The way to cause change and transformation is to progressively stimulate the body with more difficult challenges as a training program advances. Since these classes remain the same over time, there is no effective progression to help someone lose fat (which is one main reason why people take the classes in the first place!)

#2 - The longer an activity is, the less intense it automatically has to be. You can only keep up extremely high intensity for shorter time periods. Since these classes are 60 minutes long, most exercisers will end up working at a relatively lower intensity - much like longer, slower cardio sessions. Since intensity is a huge proponent of a workout that creates a huge metabolic disturbance... these classes would not be an optimal solution by themselves. They cannot elicit the high intensity that shorter training sessions can accomplish. However, as an adjunct to a complete strength training program, I am all for the inclusion of these classes.


Now, the positive aspects...

#1 - These classes involve explosive movements, compound exercises, and full ranges of motion. Because of this, they are a much better choice for activity than long, slow, boring cardio. Even though the exerciser might adapt to the choreography over time, it is very probable that they will still be exuding more energy through these energetic activities (and moving through a larger range of motion) than they will on the cardio machines.

#2 - The BodyPump class involves an instructor teaching the correct technique of basic lifting exercises. I think that it is important for exercisers to gain that positive reinforcement about proper technique from a knowledgable instructor. This class would likely be very beneficial for many less advanced gym-goers.


So, to conclude all my ramblings - I believe that a strong resistance training program is necessary for an individual to get measurable results from exercise. But, activities that tax the entire body - more metabolic activities like circuit training, interval training, and challenging classes - are also an important part of a complete training program. Because of that, I think the Les Mills Body Training classes (or any other similar classes that you might enjoy) are a great inclusion to your week of exercise.

Hope that helps!
Kim


**Remember!! Any other fitness/nutrition questions can be directed to kim@deliberatemovement.com