Los Angeles has long been at the forefront of fitness trends, from yoga to high-intensity interval training. But beyond the typical workouts, LA is home to some truly bizarre and outlandish fitness trends that have gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts seeking a fun twist on their exercise routine. If you think you’ve tried it all, it’s time to step outside the box and dive into some of LA’s weirdest but surprisingly effective fitness trends. Prepare to be amazed—and maybe a little confused!
1. Anti-Gravity Yoga (Aerial Yoga)
Imagine doing yoga with the added element of floating in the air. Anti-gravity yoga, or aerial yoga, is precisely what it sounds like—yoga poses and sequences performed while suspended in a hammock. This unique practice offers a full-body workout by combining traditional yoga with acrobatics, allowing you to stretch, strengthen, and de-stress while defying gravity. The hammocks support your body, making it easier to achieve deep stretches and inverted poses, and many practitioners swear by the therapeutic effects, including improved flexibility, posture, and core strength.
2. Goat Yoga
At first glance, goat yoga may seem like a joke, but it’s a real trend taking over LA’s fitness scene. Picture yourself doing traditional yoga poses while adorable, playful goats roam around you, occasionally hopping on your back or nuzzling your legs. The presence of these friendly animals has been shown to reduce stress, encourage mindfulness, and even bring laughter to your practice. It’s a quirky, heartwarming way to get a workout in, and the added joy of interacting with animals makes it a fun and memorable experience.
3. Laughing Yoga
If you’re looking for an odd and uplifting workout, laughing yoga is the way to go. This practice involves controlled breathing techniques and simulated laughter exercises designed to trigger real laughter, positively impacting mental health. In a group setting, participants laugh together—sometimes without reason—leading to a sense of connection and shared joy. Laughter yoga proponents believe it helps relieve stress, boost mood, and improve cardiovascular health. It’s one of LA’s more unconventional workouts but also one of the most fun.
4. Cryo-Facials (Cryotherapy)
While cryotherapy is not new, LA’s twist has people flocking to spas for “cryo-facials.” This involves a blast of sub-zero temperatures applied to your face using a cryotherapy machine, promoting circulation, reducing inflammation, and tightening skin. It boosts collagen production and gives your compleglows your complexion muscle recovery. This treatment takes about 10-15 minutes, and while it might sound like a frosty torture session, fans rave about its anti-aging benefits and stimulating effects on the skin.
5. Roller Disco Fitness
The roller skating craze of the ’70s is back, but this time it’s with a twist: fitness. Roller disco fitness classes are a fun and funky way to break a sweat while cruising around on skates to upbeat music. The classes are often set to disco hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s, bringing a party vibe to your workout. Roller skating is a great way to improve balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health while having a blast. If you’re ready to relive the roller rink glory days, LA’s roller disco fitness scene will help you get your groove while burning those calories.
6. Dance Trance Fitness
Forget the typical step aerobics or Zumba classes—LA’s latest dance craze is called Dance Trance Fitness. This high-energy class combines hip-hop, jazz, and freestyle dance moves with high-intensity cardio. The catch? The studio has no mirrors, so you can let go and focus on the beat instead of perfecting your form. It’s all about having fun while getting your heart rate up. The freedom of expression and the social aspect make it an empowering and unexpected fitness trend gaining popularity across the city.
7. Hula-Hoop Workouts
Remember hula-hooping as a kid? Well, LA has turned it into a full-body workout. Hula-hoop fitness classes use weighted hoops to tone your core, hips, and arms while burning calories. With an upbeat playlist in the background, participants learn various tricks and moves, transforming the childhood pastime into an effective workout. It’s a great way to work on coordination, flexibility, and balance, all while feeling like you’re just having fun at the park. Who knew a hula hoop could be your ticket to a tighter core?
Conclusion
If you’re in LA and feeling adventurous, these weird fitness trends are worth a try. Whether laughing with strangers, sweating it out on roller skates, or practicing yoga with goats, these unconventional workouts will shake up your fitness routine and give you a fresh perspective on exercise. While they may seem odd at first, each of these fitness trends offers something unique—whether it’s fun, relaxation, or a challenge that your body didn’t see coming. So why not try one of LA’s most bizarre fitness experiences outside the usual gym routine? Your workout just got a lot more interesting.
