It’s a new year, which means many people are gearing up to start new fitness goals. 

Nancy Bradford, fitness manager at Sculpt at Towne Studio Fitness, said that Pilates, PiYo!, yoga, POUND and cardio dance classes are a great way to start getting in shape. 

“We typically see a spike in people joining around the second or third week of January,” Bradford said. “Typically, it takes until February to make the decision to actually come.”

The dance cardio group classes offer an alternative to going to the gym and running or lifting weights. It also offers a supportive group atmosphere that keeps those attending uplifted and accountable. 

“You know, they want something different, they want change,” Bradford said. “It is the opportunity to do something different, and create a new you. Anytime anyone does something and you act on it, it builds on your self-confidence.”

Throughout the week, the combined classes are offered more than 50 times in the morning, midday and afternoon.

“People want to get healthy,” Bradford said. “The hardest thing for most people is just getting through the door. Once they come in the door, they realize that it’s not so bad.” 

Additionally, you don’t have to be a member of Towne Fitness to go to the classes and can pay the one-time $10 class fee each time. All cardio and Sculpt classes are included in the Towne membership with no class fee. 

“Don’t be afraid to take the first step,” Bradford said. “Once you’ve taken the first step, you’ve done it, and that’s the hard part.” 

Bradford, who has a weight management and nutrition certification, said that losing weight is 80 percent diet and 20 percent working out. 

“Make the first step,” Bradford said. “Don’t be afraid to try it, and start working out.”

For more information about the classes, call (706) 884-4653 or to check when classes are held visit townefitnessclub.com/classes.  

Classes held at Sculpt at Towne are located at 131 Bull Street in LaGrange.