10 Different Types of Workouts in the Gym

You walk into the gym after work, the treadmills, the clanking sound of weight and the beats of the group classes.

And sometimes, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Familiarizing yourself with all the exercises that are available will often assist in deciding what workout types are there to begin with.

For whatever particular goal you might have, whether that be to increase muscle, stretch more or become more heart healthy, the types of workouts in gym are there for that purpose.

1. Strength Training

Strength training is going to make you stronger and more muscular through exercise. Strength training is getting your muscles to work against in the form of weights, bands or some form of resistance.

A strength training workout is going to work your muscles, increase your metabolism and strengthen your bones.

Key Exercise:

• Squats
• Deadlifts
• Bench Press
• Overhead Press
• Pull-Ups

Adding strength training workouts to your schedule can have a huge impact on how you move and function on a daily basis.

2. Cardiovascular Training

Cardiovascular training is different from most types of training since it focuses on the health of your heart and lungs, also commonly known in the gym as cardio.

In this instance exercises are performed with the focus on working your heart and using your strength.

Cardio Exercises:

• Running or Jogging
• Cycling
• Swimming
• Jump Rope
• Rowing

Separating time from your daily schedule to commit to doing cardio exercise will help reduce your risk for chronic disease, help manage weight, and even increase energy levels.

3. HIIT

High-Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT, is where you do exercises at a HIGH level, or FAST, for a short time, followed by a short rest period.

You will burn calories at a faster rate when you are moving, which is good for the heart.

HIIT examples:

• Sprinting
• Burpees
• Jump Squat
• Mountain Climber
• Kettlebell Swings
• Brisk Walking

HIIT has become popular to do in comparison to other types of exercise due to the fact that it is a quick exercise and EVERYONE can do it, even if you are short on time performing exercise.

4. Flexibility & Mobility Training

These types of exercises are designed to assist with the range of motion in your joints and muscles.

Progressing them regularly will reduce injuries and improve your fundamental movement quality.

Common Exercise Methods:

• Yoga
• Pilates
• Dynamic Stretching
• Foam Rolling
• Tai Chi

Investing time in exercises that work on your range of motion could mean better posture, less muscle tightness, and a better chance at being successful in your sport.

5. Functional Training

Completing functional training means you're getting your body physically ready to perform day-to-day movements more easily.

Performing functional exercises and activities will make individuals more agile, balanced, and strong physically.

Functional Activities:

• Lunges
• Squats
• Push-Ups
• Kettlebell Swings
• Medicine Ball Throws

Functional training is great for anyone regardless of fitness and can also help prevent injury by strengthening the muscles you use in daily life.

6. Circuit Training

You are able to move through many exercises with little rest time.

The workout is a combination of exercises that build strength and exercises that increase your heart rate, all within one workout.

Example Circuit:

• Jumping Jacks
• Push-Ups
• Squats
• Plank Hold
• Lunges

Circuit training is a great way to increase your heart rate to improve aerobic capacity, improve muscular endurance, and also have the option to make the workout specific to your individual need.

7. Group Fitness Classes

Group fitness classes can bring structure to your exercise routine and provide you the guidance of having an instructor leading the workout.

Taking part in classes creates motivation, accountability, and a sense of community.

Popular exercise classes:

• Zumba
• Spinning
• AMRAP
• Boot Camp
• Barre

Group exercise classes are an enjoyable way to inject variety into your exercise routine and motivate you to stay on track with your exercise.

8. Bodyweight Training

Bodyweight training is when you utilize only your body as the resistance to build strength and endurance. Bodyweight training requires very little equipment.

Key Bodyweight Exercises:

• Push-Ups
• Pull-Ups
• Squats
• Lunges
• Planks

Bodyweight training is an excellent option for those just starting an exercise program, and can be done just about anywhere, which is a great option if wanting to stay in shape with less effort.

9. Calisthenics

Calisthenics is also a type of exercise based on artistic rhythms movements, which might also include gymnastics movements.

Calisthenics is stretching, strength, and coordination movements in a continuous flow, not as a series of repeated movements.

Common Calisthenics:

• Muscle-Ups
• Handstands
• Front Levers
• Back Levers
• Human Flags

Calisthenics are incredibly challenging, yet delivers incredible results and an aesthetically shaped body.

10. Mind-Body Exercises

Exercise programs with mind and body exercises can help to alleviate levels of stress and improve general wellbeing. Body and mind exercises may assist you in fully accepting your own body, while enhancing your overall health and wellness.

Examples:

• Tai Chi
• Qigong
• Meditative Yoga
• Pilates
• Breathing Exercises

If you were to incorporate more mind-body movements into your physical fitness plan, you may experience more clarity, less anxiety, and improved emotional stability.

Conclusion

There are numerous types of workouts at the gym so it can be overwhelming where to start.

However, once you have a clearer understanding of each workout type you will be able to make an informed choice that fits into your fitness plan.

No matter your goal to increase strength, flexibility, or mental focus, there will be a workout type to fit your unique situation.

Most importantly just be consistent and have FUN! Simply put on a comfortable pair of shoes and get moving through all the different types of fitness workouts for your health.

FAQ’s

Q1: How many different types of workout exercises are there?

You can choose from a variety of exercises based on what you want to accomplish fitness-wise. Gyms usually offer five different types of workouts: weight training, working aerobically or doing cardio, flexibility exercises, doing functional work, and mental and physical activities.

Q2: What is the best kind of workout for a beginner?

For starters, try exercising with your body weight, cardio with a moderate intensity, and learn flexibility exercises. You can start doing tougher physical activities whenever you feel prepared.

Q3: Can I do more than one type of workout?

Absolutely! Trying out a range of workouts can maintain all-round fitness, keep your mind occupied, and improve your health.

Q4: When should I change my workout?

It helps to analyze and change your fitness routine every 4 to 6 weeks, because it gives you an opportunity to continue to progress and work in more than one type of workout at the gym.

Q5: Are group fitness classes effective for weight loss?

Group fitness classes can be an effective tool for stimulating weight loss, especially if the program you are participating in involves aerobic/cardio physical activity and strength training activity. Exercising with a group and instructor help provide both help for motivation and continuity for your future fitness participation.