Fitness review: BodyAttack

In my eyes, BodyAttack is the original high intensity interval training. Want to build agility? Endurance? Stamina? Strength? It’s all here in this group fitness class.

I’ve been a fan of BodyAttack for years and recently learnt that F45 co-founder and celebrity trainer Luke Istomin cut his teeth on BodyAttack back in the day before he became famous for whipping Hugh Jackman into shape as Wolverine.

If you haven’t given group fitness classes a go, this is one to try. There’s something about doing the hard yards with a group of people who are also giving their all, that really inspires you to keep going and put in your best effort.

The details:

Duration: 60 minutes (includes warm-up and cool-down)
Style: Group class
Cost: $15-$20 casual drop in
Who’s there: Mainly women, but all ages 20s through to 50s
What to wear: ¾ tights or gym shorts, moisture wicking tee. Bring towel and water bottle.

What to expect:

BodyAttack is one of the most popular Les Mills group fitness classes which is offered at most big gyms. It’s best described as a high energy sports inspired cardio workout that builds strength and stamina. And like all workouts in the Les Mills family, it’s split into clear intervals with an infectious soundtrack to keep you motivated and in time!

The class starts with a warm-up (1) before moving into track 2 of 11 in this order: (2) mixed impact training (3) aerobic training (4) plyometric training (5) upper body conditioning (6) running (7) agility training (8) interval training (9) power training (10) lower body conditioning (11) core conditioning, finally ending with a cool-down (12). Yes, expect lunges, star jumps and burpees but there’s always options the instructor will run through so don’t let this put you off. In addition to those moves, also look-out for these three:

Skater – like you’re jumping over a puddle sideways, pushing off with one leg, and landing on the other, with your arms swinging to the same side of your body of the supporting leg you land on

Ladder run – move your feet as fast as you can from side-to-side as if you’re stepping in and out of the rungs of a ladder that’s lying flat on the ground

Snowboard – bend your knees and perform a tuck jump, spinning around 180 degrees to land, then repeat

Would I recommend this fitness workout to a friend?

Yes. Expect to be challenged and leave feeling exhausted, but on top of the world. It takes awhile to get into the swing of things but mark my words, if you want to improve your cardio, strength and functional movement, you can’t go past this as a workout.

What I liked: challenging, options for all levels, great soundtrack, motivating instructors
What I didn’t like: the pace can feel relentless!

What do I rate this fitness workout out of 5?

Fitness: 5/5                         Strength and toning: 5/5
Weight loss: 5/5                Wellness (mind, body, soul connection): 4/5

What was a track on this fitness workouts playlist?

Justice Crew – Everybody

Has this review inspired you to try BodyAttack? Let me know, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Post your review in the comment box below.

Don’t forget to let me know if there’s a workout you’d like me to review. Just post it on my Facebook page or email hello@askthatfitgirl.com

Until next time, Maryanne K