This year, Aussies are ditching same-old gym routines for workouts that double as experiences. From nightclub-inspired boxing to sauna-heated Pilates and calorie-burning recovery rituals. These new workout trends are are hotter than an infrared sauna!
Nightclub-Inspired Boxing
High-energy boxing is having a glow-up. Think pounding music, low lighting, and sleek aqua-filled bags that take the sting out of impact while still delivering a killer workout. It’s about feeling like you’re in a nightclub while racking up serious cardio and strength gains. Rumble Boxing, the US-born concept loved by Justin and Hailey Bieber, David Beckham and Kylie Jenner, is leading the charge in Australia, with studios already open nationwide and more on the way.
Contrasts are cool
Recovery is no longer the afterthought – it’s the main event. Contrast therapy, which alternates between icy plunges and heat (often via an infrared sauna), is gaining traction as a calorie-burning, circulation-boosting ritual with mood and sleep benefits to boot. Melbourne’s WildSoul Wellness makes it a full experience, pairing the therapy with serene Pilates and recovery spaces, with more locations set to open nationally.
Pilates With All the Props
Forget your pared-back reformer class – the latest Pilates trend is all about variety. From Exo Boxes to springboards, TRX straps to props you’ve never seen before, these sessions target every muscle and keep things fresh. Club Pilates has mastered the art, offering more than 1,000 studios globally and a menu of classes ranging from high-intensity burners to mobility-focused recovery. It’s low impact, but don’t be fooled – the burn is real.
Infrared-Enhanced Workouts
Infrared training is also having a moment, bringing sauna-like warmth into the workout itself. The gentle heat helps muscles loosen, boosts circulation and makes you sweat – hard – without the need for extra reps. At Sydney’s Flow Athletic, the Infrared Reformer Burn blends the studio’s ReformerFlow and Best Burn Ever programs, created by award-nominated trainer Simon Ngo, for a fusion of Pilates, barre, cardio and strength under that cosy, metabolism-boosting glow.
Elite-Level Fitness Testing
Finally, data-driven fitness is one of the best new workout trends – stepping out of elite sports and into everyday training. The latest buzz is technology that measures your strength, mobility and potential injury risks with scientific precision. And, at the new Virgin Active Bondi Junction, members can book into partner clinic Quay Health to experience Quay Function Assessment powered by VALD technology – the same assessment system used by professional athletes. Whether you’re returning from ACL surgery, prepping for a marathon or just curious about your body’s imbalances, Quay Function Assessment powered by VALD technology provides objective, trackable results that can guide training and rehab.
This story was originally published on The Carousel.
