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Ditch the Boring Gym Routine with These 9 Fun Manchester Fitness Classes
So, here’s the thing: gyms can get a bit, well, monotonous. You know the drill – same treadmill, same playlist, same existential dread as you wonder why the person next to you is sprinting like they’re being chased.
But don’t worry, Manchester’s got your back with fitness classes that are anything but boring.
I mean, who needs a plain-old gym sesh when you could be flipping on trampolines, punching bags under neon lights, or, hear me out, sipping a pint mid-downward dog?
I once signed up for pole fitness “just to try it,” thinking it’d be a laugh. Spoiler: it was, but also, I couldn’t lift my arms for two days. The point is, these classes aren’t just workouts – they’re experiences.
So, if you’re ready to swap dull routines for fitness that feels more like fun, keep reading – we’ve got the top classes that might change how you break a sweat.
Pole Fitness at Bodybarre
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Address: 2nd Floor, 35-37, Thomas St
Contact details: +44 161 228 7215
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-9PM
Pricing: £££
Website
Class schedule
Right, so you’ve heard of pole fitness and thought, “What’s the big deal?” Well, let me tell you, Bodybarre will flip that thought on its head.
You step into this sleek Northern Quarter studio, greeted by glimmering poles (steady on, we’re talking fitness here) and a bunch of people ready to embrace their inner acrobat. First-timers, don’t sweat it – quite literally.
The instructors are absolute gems, easing you in with basic moves that slowly turn into spins and climbs that’ll make you feel like an aerial star.
What’s brilliant is that pole fitness is sneaky – you think you’re having a laugh, but really, you’re torching calories, strengthening your core, and leaving with muscles you didn’t know existed.
Pro tip:
Avoid moisturiser before class, nobody wants to feel like a greased-up slip-n-slide when they’re mid-spin.
Hot Yoga at YogaSoul
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Website: Yoga Soul
Address: 49 Hilton St
Contact details: +44 161 834 6289
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6AM-9PM
- Sat – Sun 7AM-7PM
If you think yoga’s just about stretching and the occasional “om,” YogaSoul will prove you wildly wrong. Nestled in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter, this hot yoga studio cranks the temperature up – quite literally – to give you a workout that’s as challenging as it is detoxifying.
Walking in, you’re hit with a soothing warmth, the kind that makes your muscles sigh in relief before you’ve even done a downward dog. The studio is beautifully minimal, with dim lighting and calming vibes that scream “zen central.”
But don’t let the serenity fool you; the class itself is intense. Expect a mix of traditional poses, flowing sequences, and a puddle of sweat that will have you questioning why you didn’t bring a second towel.
What’s great about YogaSoul is that it caters to everyone. Plus, the heat helps loosen tight muscles, making it easier to stretch deeper without risking injury – a win-win.
Pro tip:
Bring a water bottle and a non-slip yoga mat; the heat can make things a bit, well, slippery.
STR1KE Boxing at V1BE Fitness
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Address: 75 Mosley St
Contact details: +44 161 834 4040
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 6AM–9PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Feeling like throwing a punch – but in a healthy, legal way? STR1KE Boxing at V1BE Fitness is where you’ll want to be. From the moment you strap on those gloves, it’s game on.
The instructors are equal parts motivator and coach, pushing you through a mix of shadowboxing, bag work, and bodyweight exercises that leave you drenched but buzzing with adrenaline.
First-timers are given a quick rundown before class, so you won’t be left floundering mid-jab. What’s ace about STR1KE is that it’s not just about boxing; it’s a full-body workout.
Your arms, core, and legs will all feel the burn, but in that satisfying “I crushed it” kind of way. And if you’re worried about coordination – don’t; the vibe is all about having fun and releasing stress, not trying to nail a perfect left hook on your first go.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to wrap your hands properly, it’s a small thing that makes a massive difference in comfort.
CrossFit at CrossFit Central Manchester
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Address: 9 Red Bank, Cheetham Hill
Contact details: +44 161 834 5606
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 6AM–8PM
Pricing: £££
Website
CrossFit – love it or hate it, you’ve definitely heard of it. At CrossFit Central Manchester, the buzz isn’t just hype; it’s real, and it’ll have you coming back for more.
Walk into this industrial-style space, and you’ll see people flipping tyres, swinging kettlebells, and hanging from pull-up bars like it’s just another Tuesday. Every class is led by a certified coach who ensures you’re doing the movements safely – no rogue barbells flying around here.
The workouts (or WODs, as they call them) change daily, so you’ll never get bored. Expect a mix of weightlifting, cardio, and functional fitness that’ll push you to your limits – but in the best way possible.
First-timers, don’t fret. There’s a strong community vibe here, and everyone, from seasoned CrossFitters to newbies, cheers each other on. It’s challenging, yes, but the camaraderie makes the sweat and sore muscles worth it.
Pro tip:
Take advantage of their free taster session to dip your toes into the CrossFit world before committing.
Flip Fit at Flip Out MCR
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Address: Corbett Street
Contact details: +44 161 834 5021
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM–10PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Think trampolines are just for kids? Think again. Flip Fit at Flip Out MCR takes bouncing to a whole new level – and no, it’s not just jumping around like you’re at a kids’ party.
This fitness class is designed to get your heart pumping, your muscles working, and your stress levels dropping faster than gravity. The setup is brilliant: a massive arena filled with interconnected trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses.
The instructor’s guide you through a range of moves – think tuck jumps, flips, and core exercises – all while bouncing. It’s a full-body workout disguised as fun, which makes it perfect for anyone who dreads traditional gyms.
What’s great is how low-impact it is on your joints, so even if you’re not a fitness fanatic, you’ll find it doable (and ridiculously entertaining). Plus, you’ll burn calories without even realising it because you’ll be too busy laughing and trying not to fall into the foam pit.
Pro tip:
Wear grip socks, they’re mandatory and save you from an unintentional slide across the trampoline.
Dance Classes at BLOK Manchester
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Address: Ducie St Warehouse, Manchester
Contact details: +44 161 834 3030
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 6AM–10PM
Pricing: £££
Website
If you’ve ever watched a dance routine and thought, “I could never do that,” BLOK Manchester is here to prove you wrong. The studio itself is a vibe – modern, spacious, and buzzing with energy.
Classes cover a variety of styles, from hip-hop and contemporary to commercial choreography that wouldn’t look out of place on a music video set. The instructors are approachable & skilled, breaking down moves step by step so you don’t feel like a flailing octopus in front of a mirror.
Not only do you get a proper workout (dancing is surprisingly intense), but you’ll also leave feeling like a total boss for nailing that final combo. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to boost your confidence while having an absolute blast.
Pro tip:
Book early; classes fill up fast, especially the commercial dance sessions that are everyone’s favourite.
Muay Thai for Beginners at Fighting Fit Martial Arts
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Address: BURY road, Fornham All Saints, Bury Saint Edmunds IP28 6JZ
Contact details: +44 161 833 7999
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 9AM–9PM
- Sat – Sun 10AM–4PM
Pricing: ££
Website
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like an action movie star – or just learn how to kick with purpose – Fighting Fit Martial Arts has got your back (and legs, and fists). Their Muay Thai for Beginners class is perfect for anyone looking to dip their toes into “the art of eight limbs.”
Don’t let the intimidating name fool you; this is a friendly and supportive space where first-timers are more than welcome. The gym is well-equipped with punching bags, pads, and a full-size ring, but the real highlight is the coaching.
The instructors are hands-on, walking you through the basics of striking, blocking, and clinching. It’s a workout and a skill-builder in one – you’ll leave sweaty, empowered, and maybe even a little dangerous (in a good way).
The class mixes cardio and technique drills, so expect to work up a serious sweat while learning practical moves.
Pro tip:
Bring your own gloves if you’ve got them, but if not, they’ve got spares to lend you.
Total Body Workout at Barry’s Manchester
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Address: 3 Lower Byrom St
Contact details: +44 161 832 0500
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 6AM–9PM
Pricing: £££
Website
If you’re after a fitness class that’ll leave you feeling like you’ve just conquered Everest (minus the altitude), Barry’s Total Body Workout is where it’s at. Known as “the best workout in the world,” this high-intensity interval training class is no joke – but it’s also seriously addictive.
The setup is sleek and futuristic, with a split of treadmill sprints and floor work involving weights, resistance bands, and whatever else they can throw at you to make you sweat.
The room is dimly lit with red lighting, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a club than a gym – and trust me, the playlist will have you powering through those last few reps like your life depends on it.
Instructors are equal parts drill sergeant and cheerleader, pushing you to your limits while making sure your form is spot on. By the end, you’ll feel like a fitness warrior, and the post-class smoothie bar is the perfect spot to refuel and revel in your accomplishment.
Pro tip:
First-timers might find it intense, but don’t worry – you can always modify the moves to suit your level. Grab a towel at reception!
Runway Pilates Manchester
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Address: 35 Dale St
Contact details: +44 161 834 4567
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 7AM–9PM
Pricing: £££
If you’ve ever thought Pilates was just lying around on a mat stretching your legs, Runway Pilates will give you a reality check – and a core workout you’ll never forget.
This boutique studio in Chorlton specialises in Reformer Pilates, where you’re guided through a series of exercises on sleek machines that look like something out of a sci-fi film. Trust me, you’ll feel the burn in all the right places.
The instructors are pros at making sure you get the most out of each session, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned Pilates enthusiast. They focus on form, so you’ll leave feeling longer, stronger, and oddly elegant – like you’ve just stepped off a runway (hence the name).
Pro tip:
Book a beginner session if you’re new to Reformer Pilates. The machines can be a bit intimidating, but the instructors will walk you through it.
