Have you ever wondered how your local Virgin Active turns exercise into a full-blown party on the gym floor, where sweat flows like a sauna and workouts feel less like a chore and more like a vibe? Meet Kopano Marumo, Virgin Active’s exercise expert, as he dishes the secret sauce. From GRID classes that make burpees almost fun to recovery Kauai smoothies that taste like victory, you’ll see why their gym floors are more than just sweat zones, they’re the ultimate wellness clubs!
How Virgin Active designs fitness programmes for everyone
Virgin Active, the social wellness club, has a Kickstart programme designed to assist beginners and returnees in easing back into fitness on the gym floor. What is a ‘social wellness club’ you might ask? It’s not a spa in the Drakensberg, instead it’s about our approach to holistic wellness, and not being ‘just’ gyms. Whether your aim is ‘wellness’, ‘get strong and toned’ or ‘get fit,’ Virgin Active has tailored plans that are just the right length to make you believe you love exercising.
For those who need a bit more guidance, personal trainers are there to provide customised programs that include everything from rest days to mobility drills. They act as your fitness Yoda, guiding, encouraging, and sometimes gently reminding you that the chips and chocolate you ate last night aren’t part of the plan.
What workouts get South Africans moving?
South Africans love their intense workouts. HIIT and Grid classes are crowd favourites, designed to push you to your limits with functional training and almost no breaks. It’s like speed dating for your muscles. You don’t know what’s happening, but it’s exhilarating.
If you’d rather stay cool, aqua aerobics might be your vibe. It has a low impact on the joints and high resistance, and you don’t even notice the sweat because you’re underwater. And then there’s Reformer Pilates, the sneaky resistance workout that leaves you sore but stronger.
Lately, international trends like strength training have also taken off. Virgin Active now offers Strength & Conditioning and Lift Club classes, which are perfect for building muscle and making you feel like the Hulk (minus the green skin).
The science behind Personal Trainers’ plans
Ever heard the phrase, “Trust the process?” Personal Trainers in South Africa live by it. They start by testing your fitness levels, figuring out where you’re at, and creating a roadmap to your goals. But don’t think it’s smooth sailing. It takes some trial and error. (And yes, there might be tears when your trainer says, “Just one more set.” Spoiler: it’s never just one.)
Diet is another big piece of the puzzle. You can’t out-train a bad diet, which means figuring out whether you’re eating too much or too little. And don’t skip your warm-ups or cooldowns! Skipping those is like baking a cake without preheating the oven—sure, you can do it, but you probably shouldn’t.
Tech that keeps you hooked
Let’s talk gadgets. Fitness trackers and apps like Vitality and Virgin Active’s app are like your gym buddies who never bail. They remind you to move, reward you for showing up, and even cheer when you hit a new milestone. It’s a dopamine hit every time you crush a workout.
The best part? The app makes workouts feel less like a chore and more like a reward cycle: workout, smoothie, gold stars, repeat. Eventually, it becomes a habit.
Beginners and pros: We have you covered
Gyms in South Africa make sure everyone feels included, whether you’re a newbie or an athlete who can plank for days. Classes often have beginner-friendly options, and personal trainers tweak exercises to suit your fitness level.
If you’re recovering from an injury, more help is available. Biokineticists and physiotherapists work their magic to get you back to your best.
Recovery: The key to doing it all over again
You’ve done the hard part, and now it’s time to recover like a pro. South African gyms take recovery seriously, offering everything from massage therapy to ice baths (for the brave ones). Virgin Active even has saunas and steam rooms for those who prefer warm and toasty recovery.
Oh, and remember nutrition. A post-workout Kauai smoothie or protein-packed meal will fuel your body for the next session.
Group classes: Where the magic happens
There’s something about sweating it out with a group of strangers that makes you push harder. It could be the competitive spirit, or maybe you just don’t want to be the first one to stop. Whatever it is, group classes in South African gyms foster a supportive community while helping you crush your fitness goals.
Classes typically start with a warm-up to get your heart pumping, move into the main workout (where the real work happens), and end with a cooldown. This well-rounded formula keeps people coming back.
Gyms are worth it
Between the tech, the trainers, and various workouts, Virgin Active gyms have something for everyone. Whether you’re there to tone up, build strength, or survive a HIIT class without crying, there’s a class, programme, or Personal Trainer for you.
Ready to start your fitness journey? Join Virgin Active, book a gym class, and discover a workout that makes you feel amazing. Don’t wait. Your future fitter self is already cheering you on!