At the Hardy Court Club, you'll find Step Areobics, Pilates, Abs Classes, Grappling Classes and Water Aerobics. Abs, Pilates, and Step Aerobics are held in a large, separate, mirrored room that features the area's ONLY cushioned floor. With 3 instructors, classes are always conducted at their scheduled times.

Pilates

Pilates is the name of a set of exercise methods named after its originator, Joseph Pilates. The primary focus is on awareness of the spine, proper breathing, core strength and flexibility. The outcome of Pilates training is a balanced body which is strong and supple, flat stomach, balanced legs, and a strong back.

New to Pilates? You're not alone! Pilates is one of the fastest growing forms of exercise in the world. In the U.S., Pilates participants have grown in number from 1.7 million in 2000 to 10.5 million in 2004 – more than 500% growth in just four years!

Practiced regularly, Pilates yields many benefits. Increased lung capacity and circulation through deep, healthy breathing is a primary focus. Strength and flexibility, particularly of the abdomen and back muscles, coordination-both muscular and mental, are key components in an effective Pilates program. Posture, balance, and core strength are all heartily increased. Bone density and joint health improve, and many experience positive body awareness for the first time. Pilates teaches balance and control of the body, and that capacity spills over into other areas of one's life.

Step Aerobics

Step aerobics is a form of aerobic activity which is performed on a platform that usually ranges from 4" to 10" in height. While the aim of aerobics is to increase the body's consumption of oxygen, step aerobics builds on that goal by offering a more intense workout.The platform or "step" provides this extra boost by incorporating the action of stepping onto the platform to intensify the workout. The other benefit is that it is low impact, and doesn't stress the joints as much as running or jogging.

Step Aerobics is an intense all over body workout targeting mainly the problem areas of the hips, bums and thighs.It also has a strong emphasis on core stability, meaning it will improve posture and strengthen the abs and lower back. The benefits will carry over into your everyday tasks and also help improve sports performance, whether it's organized atheletics or your golf game.

Grappling

This is a class designed around the UFC style of fighting. It involves martial arts and wrestling in combination. It is a very intensive workout that involves alot of cardio ability and strength.

This class also involves physical contact and fighting with pads. If you are interested in trying to learn a few moves for self defense or just wanting to learn a new style of fighting, this is the way to go. It will give you a good aerobic workout as well as a sense of security out in real life situations.

As with any exercise program, please consult with a physician before starting any exercise program, and let your trainers know of any limitations you may have.