The Y is offering new exercise classes that will make you want to join ASAP

From Zumba to hot yoga, the Y has always had an impressive exercise class offering. This year, they are continuing to expand that list across their Charlotte network and their new classes are pushing the boundaries of what you would expect. MMA style cardio, anyone?

Beyond their class expansion, they are also investing in state-of-the-art, updated equipment, like this super cool fitness rig:

They offer an outdoor version at their Ballantyne location.

The Y is also expanding their facilities. Dowd YMCA, one of their most popular Charlotte locations, just opened a new parking deck last month.

As far as parking decks go, it’s pretty dang nice.

This month, Dowd began phase two of their renovations. The expansion includes a 40,000 square foot, two-level addition and activated rooftop.

The renovation will result in new group exercise studios (there are rumors of a spin room with stadium seating), enhanced community spaces and the creation of the Center for Social Innovation, which will provide a co-working space for social mission entrepreneurs.

If you’ve been on the fence about joining, now is the time.

Join May 4-8 and you won’t pay any membership dues until June. Then, refer a friend who joins before May 10 and you won’t pay dues until July. Yep, two free months.

Here’s a look at some of their new class offerings:

Strength Train Together

The workout: It’s a high-rep weight training workout that uses a mix of adjustable barbell, weight plates and body weight exercises. The workout combines squats, lunges, presses and curls.
Why it’s awesome: You truly get a full body workout. Seriously my whole body was sore the next day.
Difficulty level: Beginner to advanced. You can modify it to make it as easy or challenging as you want.
Class length: 60 minutes
Pro tip: Don’t be intimidated by the equipment. I had never used barbells before but it wasn’t as scary as I thought.

Defend Together

The workout: It’s an explosive cardio workout fueled by mixed martial arts movements. We’re talking kickboxing, Muay Thai, karate and more.
Why it’s awesome: You’ll burn a ton of calories and feel like a total badass while you do it.
Difficulty level: Beginner to advanced. Easily modifiable. I had to take some breaks. #noshame
Class length: 60 minutes
Pro tip: Bring water and towel. You’re going to get real sweaty and real thirsty.

Check here to find class schedules and locations.

In addition to these new classes, the Y also has a ton of classes I never knew they offered.

Here’s a quick list to pique your interest:
Water Pilates
Barre
TRX®
Vinyasa Yoga
Hot Yoga
Kickboxing
Fusion Cycling
Belly Dancing

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. To see the full list and get class descriptions click here.

The standard rate for an adult membership is $68/month and $28/month for every additional adult. However, the rate is adjusted for household incomes below $80k.

We’re talking unlimited monthly access to every YMCA location in Greater Charlotte.

Translation: it’s a steal.

Don’t forget – join May 4-8 and you won’t pay any dues until June.

You can join online here or at any YMCA branch.

You’ve still got time to get that trim swimsuit bod before you hit Lake Norman this summer.

(This content was co-created with the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.)