The summer Olympics are here, and we all have our eyes glued to the incredible feats of athleticism of this year’s athletes. If you’re inspired by Paris 2024, check out these MINT classes for an Olympian-worthy workout.
Rowing
Did you know that rowing has been an Olympic sport for over 100 years? The inaugural event for men’s teams occurred in 1900, with a women’s event added in 1976. It’s also one of the oldest collegiate sports in America. There’s a reason that rowing is so popular – it builds strength and endurance with very little impact. Though not quite as scenic as rowing on the Seine, MINT’s erg-based classes simulate the movements required to man a boat. Offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, Power Row classes focus on short but intense bursts of power. You’ll learn proper rowing form and build power and speed. In Endurance Row, a 90-minute class offered only on Saturday mornings, you’ll slow down the pace, refine your form, and build stamina.
Cycling
There are four types of cycling events at the summer Olympics: BMX, mountain biking, track, and road. Road cycling races are probably the best known of the sport – these are endurance races that traverse hundreds of kilometers. For just a small taste of what the Olympians face, try a MINT Ride or Rhythm Ride class. You’ll be guided through varying resistances and speeds throughout each class, making you feel like you’re traversing the hills and streets of Paris.
Weightlifting
In Olympic weightlifting, athletes compete in two barbell-based moves: the “snatch,” and the “clean and jerk.” Learn both these moves and more in one of MINT’s signature FLEX classes. These classes will teach you the basics of strength training, using barbells, dumbbells, TRX, battle ropes, and more. Bonus: many of the exercises you’ll do in FLEX act as a base for building the muscles needed for other sports!
Breaking
Breaking (also known as breakdancing) is one of two new events introduced at Paris 2024. With improvised choreography, break athletes use a combination of moves including windmills, 6-steps, and freezing. Many breakdance moves are based on the fundamentals of hip hop-style dance. If watching these breakers makes you want to get up and move, try out a MINT Dance Hip Hop class. Zumba and Doonya classes are also on the schedule if you can’t get enough of dance-based exercise.
Do you prefer the summer or winter Olympics? And what’s your favorite event to watch?
