Most people probably don’t associate New Orleans with fitness, but we need to get our work out on as much as the next babe. I don’t know if it’s the pandemic or the fact that I’m now 30, but I’ve had a hard time maintaining my weight and fitness goals for the past year or so. With that said, I’ve been trying to mix things up as much as possible. It’s way easier for me to get motivated in classes or by an instructor rather than a traditional gym so I’m sharing some of my favorite workouts I’ve found in the city.
Free to Be Yoga
Free to Be has been my go-to yoga spot for years. With several locations, it’s pretty convenient to get to from anywhere in the city. Their heated power vinyasa-style classes are a workout for the mind and body. PSA: bring a towel because you are going to sweat big time!
Location: Uptown, Downtown, and Old Metairie
Pricing: $$
Cycle Bar
Cycle Bar is the closest thing we have to a soul cycle in the city. If you are looking for a high-energy workout that will burn lots of calories in a short amount of time, then Cycle Bar is for you. They are also on ClassPass which is convenient for the babe who just likes an occasional cycle like me.
Location: Uptown
Pricing: $$$
Olivia C Fit
If you’re not comfortable with going to a gym or just prefer to work out at home or on the go, Olivia C Fit is the best for streaming fun, upbeat workout classes! Her method combines cardio and sculpt, perfect for burning calories while toning. Olivia also offers in-person outdoor workouts at Audubon Park a couple of times a week. Check out her schedule for class times!
Location: Online (anywhere) and in-person Uptown
Pricing: $
Personal Training with Elijah
Elijah is a local personal trainer that I go to at least once per week. His workouts are focused on strength training which has made such a difference in my performance in other types of fitness. It’s nice going to someone who truly knows what you are capable of and how much your body can be pushed. I highly recommend Elijah if you are looking for one on one attention that will get results.
Location: Lower Garden District
Pricing: $$
F45
F45 classes a little bit like Hour Blast, but often focus on different areas of the body each day. Think Crossfit meets HIIT meets circuit training, but it’s over in 45 minutes as opposed to a full hour. These bull-body workouts are not easy, but are efficient!
Location: Uptown and Downtown
Pricing: $$
Hour Blast
Hour Blast is exactly what it sounds like – an hour of fast-paced HIIT that combines cardio and strength training and will get you in amazing shape if done consistently.
Location: Uptown, Downtown, Lakeview, and Metairie
Pricing: $$$
Romney Studios
I like Romney Studios for the diversity of class types they offer in a boutique setting. From cycling to pilates, boxing, yoga and more, there’s something for whatever mood you’re in. They are also on ClassPass which is convenient for one-off sessions.
Location: Uptown and Lower Garden District
Pricing: $$$$
Body B Fit
The best part about Body B Fit is that they offer classes that are only 30 minutes long for when you need to knockout a quick lunch workout. They also have 50 minute classes if you have a little more time. Their climb classes on stair steppers and boxing classes will both kick your butt.
Location: Uptown and Lower Garden District
Pricing: $$$
Move Ya Brass
Our favorite New Orleans jazz singer, Robin Barnes started Move Ya Brass and the Make Your Move Foundation after overcoming a life altering health issue. Their fun, dance-based fitness classes are free to attend. It’s the perfect group workout to schedule for a bachelorette or any other event.
Location: Crescent Park and City Park
Pricing: community classes are free! contact Move Ya Brass for more info on private event pricing.
Nola Vibe Yoga
Nola Vibe Yoga, formerly Nola Tribe Yoga, hosts super social pop-up yoga classes around the city. From Sunday pool party yoga, to happy hour yoga at a fun local bar and sunrise yoga, there is something for everyone! Nola Vibe is another great option if you are looking to schedule a private group class.
Location: multiple pop-up locations
Pricing: $
