Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your health. But did you know that your brain gets just as much benefit from your fitness routine as the rest of your body? Here are 4 ways that your workout routine helps your mental health.

1. Lower Stress and Anxiety

For many, stress is an ever-present part of our lives. Lower-impact exercises have been found to lower stress hormones in our bodies while also increasing endorphins and GABA – “happy” brain chemicals that boost our moods. Try one of MINT’s yoga, pilates, or barre classes to reduce stress levels. 

2. Better Sleep 

Quality sleep has innumerable benefits for our mental health. Getting just 30 (or more!) minutes of exercise a day can help increase “slow wave” or deep sleep – the time when our brains and bodies best recover. Some people have reported, however, that exercise too late in the day can interfere with their ability to fall asleep, so try to fit those moderate to intense workouts in at least 2 hours before bedtime. MINT’s morning and evening class offerings are for all schedules, whether you’re an early rise or a night owl! 

3. Sharper Focus and Concentration 

Studies have found that aerobic exercise can have immediate benefits to concentration. Even just 20 minutes of a heart-pumping activity can increase your ability to focus and even lead to better memory. 

4. Social Benefits 

Group exercises are a great way to meet new people and connect socially. MINT’s stellar instructors often encourage partner exercises. Try committing to the same class each week – before you know it, you’ll know your fellow gym-goers’ names and maybe even make some new friends. 

Explore our class schedule to find a workout routine that benefits your body and your brain. Have a current favorite class? Let us know on Instagram @MintGymStudio!

MINT is dedicated to transforming not just your physical fitness but also nurturing your mind and soul. Here our talented instructors, trainers, and staff recognize the profound connection between the mind and body, offering a holistic approach that brings balance, serenity, and vitality to your wellness journey. Join us as we explore the transformative power of the mind-body connection and discover how MINT can help you achieve true well-being.

Mindfulness: Embrace the Present Moment

1. In our fast-paced lives, we often find ourselves caught up in a whirlwind of thoughts, worries, and distractions. We understand the importance of mindfulness and offer classes and workshops that allow you to immerse yourself in the present moment. Discover the calming benefits of yoga or meditation, and learn to connect with your inner self. Through mindful practices, you can reduce stress, improve focus, and cultivate a deeper understanding of your body’s needs.

Stress Management: Unwind and Recharge

2. Stress has become a common companion in our modern lives, but it doesn’t have to rule over us. MINT provides a haven where you can leave your worries at the door and find solace within. Engage in stress-relieving activities such as zoning out on the cardio equipment, distracting yourself and socializing in one of our classes, or challenging yourself mentally and physically in the weight area. Our expert staff is dedicated to helping you unwind, recharge, and restore balance to your body and mind.

Motivation: Fuel Your Inner Drive

3. Maintaining motivation is an essential aspect of any fitness journey. Motivation comes from within and our inspiring trainers and supportive community are here to fuel your inner drive and help you achieve your goals. Through personalized training programs, group fitness classes, and engaging challenges, we foster an environment where you can push your limits, celebrate achievements, and find the motivation to keep going.

Physical and Mental Well-being: A Harmonious Connection

4. The mind and body are inextricably linked, and nurturing both is vital for overall well-being. Here you’ll find a diverse range of classes and experiences that promote holistic health. From high-energy workouts that boost endorphins and uplift your mood to mind-body fusion classes that blend movement and mindfulness, every session at MINT is designed to strengthen the bond between your physical and mental selves.

Personalized Approach: Tailored for Your Needs

5. Every individual’s wellness journey is unique. Our experienced trainers and wellness experts take the time to understand your goals, challenges, and preferences, crafting personalized plans that cater to your specific needs. Whether you seek stress reduction, weight management, increased flexibility, or a boost in self-confidence, MINT is here to guide you on your path to success.

In a world where the mind and body are often treated as separate entities, MINT stands as an oasis that recognizes their inherent connection. Through mindfulness, stress management, motivation, and a holistic approach to well-being, MINT empowers you to embrace the transformative power of the mind-body connection. 

Join our vibrant community and embark on a wellness journey that will not only elevate your fitness but also nourish your soul. Experience where harmony and vitality unite to bring you true wellness like never before in the heart of Adams Morgan.

In the bustling city of Washington, DC, where life moves at a fast pace, it’s easy to fall into a monotonous fitness routine. However, at MINT, we believe that true transformation lies in embracing the power of diversity in your workout routine. With access to a wide range of studio-quality classes and state-of-the-art gym facilities, we invite you to step out of your comfort zone and unlock a new level of fitness excellence.

We understand that no two individuals are the same, and their fitness goals and preferences may vary. That’s why we offer All-Access Memberships that provide unlimited access to both our fully equipped gym and a diverse array of studio classes. Whether you’re a fan of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), cycling, boxing, pilates, yoga, dance, or strength training, we have something for everyone.

Embracing the benefits of a diverse workout routine has several advantages that go beyond just physical fitness. Explore why diversifying your workout regimen is essential for a well-rounded, sustainable, and enjoyable fitness journey.

1. Beat the Plateau Effect:

Repeating the same exercises and routines can lead to a fitness plateau, where your progress stagnates. By incorporating different genres of workouts, you challenge your body in new ways, preventing adaptation and pushing through plateaus. Our carefully curated classes at MINT are designed to offer variety, ensuring that you’re continually engaged and making progress.

2. Full-Body Fitness:

Each workout genre targets specific muscle groups and fitness aspects. By diversifying your routine, you engage various muscle groups, improving overall strength, endurance, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Our studio-quality classes cater to all aspects of fitness, ensuring a well-rounded approach to your training.

3. Mental Stimulation:

Exercise is not just a physical activity; it’s also a mental one. Mixing up your routine keeps your mind engaged and motivated. Trying different classes challenges your cognitive abilities and coordination while promoting creativity and focus. The diverse range of classes at MINT will not only strengthen your body but also invigorate your mind.

4. Avoiding Overuse Injuries:

Repeatedly performing the same exercises can lead to overuse injuries and imbalances. By diversifying your workouts, you reduce the risk of overworking specific muscles and joints. Our classes provide expert guidance, ensuring proper form and technique to minimize the chances of injury and promote long-term health.

5. Discovering New Passions:

Embracing a diverse workout routine opens doors to new fitness experiences and helps you discover activities you genuinely enjoy. Whether you find solace in the graceful flow of yoga, the adrenaline rush of boxing, or the energy of dance, MINT allows you to explore and expand your fitness horizons.

We believe that a diverse workout routine is the key to achieving holistic health and reaching your fitness goals. With our all-access/unlimited membership, you have the freedom to explore a vast range of classes, from cycling to HIIT, boxing to pilates, yoga to dance, and strength training. Step outside your comfort zone and experience the transformative power of diversifying your workouts.

Break free from the limitations of a stagnant fitness routine and embrace the diversity that MINT has to offer. Elevate your fitness journey, challenge your body and mind, and discover the joy of a well-rounded, sustainable, and fulfilling fitness lifestyle.

Check out our class schedule today and unlock a world of endless possibilities. It’s time to embrace the power of diversity and elevate your fitness to new heights.

Written by Genesha Michelle

The average American adult spends about a third of their waking hours sitting down. Yoga is an accessible exercise and an intentional practice that can go a long way in preserving our well-being when we are swept up in deadlines and meeting the daily demands of adult life. The benefits of physical activity, such as midday yoga, are plentiful. Here are four examples. 

1. Counteract tech neck. The typical adult hunches over a desk or mobile device for over 6 hours a day, staring downward, straining their shoulders and neck. These repetitive postures can create tension and pain, leading to syndromes like tech neck. 

2. Offer full-body stretches. Yoga incorporates full-body stretching and shifts mental attention to the body and breath. This switch interrupts the destructive sedentary patterns, loosening muscles and reducing stress on your neck and shoulders. 

3. Improve back pain. Not only is yoga helpful for upper body pain, but it is also the first line of treatment for chronic low back pain. Basic stretches, like the cat-cow pose, ease pain and improve mobility.

4. Better manage stress. Yoga supports stress management, mental health, healthy eating, weight loss, and quality sleep. It is a gentle way to release mental and physical stress caused by sitting and responding to work requirements most of the day. 

Start reaping the benefits of yoga by bridging your day with stillness and vigorous movement every Thursday at 12 p EST with my Yin/Yang Yoga flow. This in-person class is excellent for beginners and anybody curious about yin yoga. Check out our yoga class schedule and sign up today!

What is Reformer Pilates? Reformer Pilates is similar, yet, very different from mat-based Pilates. Reformer Pilates is done using the Pilates reformer machine and is generally more intense and more dynamic with the use of resistance via springs which form part of the machine.

1.  Doing Reformer Pilates may seem intimidating but it can actually be quite fun! The equipment moves with you and, at times, is used to assist you in doing some movements.
2. The Reformer is a resistance machine that allows for a full-body workout with less stress on the joints.
3. During your session, you can expect to use the spring tension to both challenge and support your core and spine.
4. Squat variations, upper body work, isometric planks, and stretching will all be included during every session.
5. Attachments and other equipment will be used throughout each session to supplement the Reformer exercise.

We all know the importance of exercising but what about the importance of stretching? Stretching shouldn’t take a back seat to your health and wellness routine as it can help improve your range of motion and decrease your risk of injury – among other benefits! 

Studies have shown stretching can help improve flexibility, and, as a result, the range of motion in your joints.

Better flexibility may:

• Improve your performance in physical activities
• Decrease your risk of injuries
• Help your joints move through their full range of motion
• Increase muscle blood flow
• Enable your muscles to work most effectively
• Improve your ability to do daily activities

Before you jump into stretching it’s important to make sure you do it safely and effectively. Just like any other exercise, the technique is key!

Use these tips to prioritize safe stretching.

• Don’t consider stretching a warmup. You may hurt yourself if you stretch cold muscles. We recommend warming up with light walking, jogging, or biking at a low intensity for 5-10 minutes. Or, of course, after your workout!
• Strive for symmetry. Everyone’s genetics for flexibility are different. Focus on having equal flexibility side to side.
• Focus on major muscle groups. Concentrate your stretches on major muscle groups such as calves, thighs, hips, lower back, neck, and shoulders.
• Don’t bounce. Stretching should be a smooth movement. Bouncing as you stretch can injure your muscle and may contribute to muscle tightness.
• Hold your stretch. As you work through the various muscle groups remember to breathe normally and hold each stretch for about 30 seconds.
• Keep up with your stretching. Though stretching can be time-consuming you can achieve the most benefits by stretching regularly, at least two to three times a week.

At MINT we’ve designed a dedicated stretching area at the front of the club, right next to our Member Lounge! Enjoy a quiet, light-filled area, with plenty of room to stretch and some equipment to help!

Mayo Clinic Resource