9 ideal fitness alternatives in Leeds for gymophobics

The gym isn't for everyone.

If the endless array of machines and intimidating racks of weights are enough to make you steer clear, there are some less daunting fitness alternatives to get involved with around Leeds.

From aerial yoga to axe throwing, here are nine fun gym alternatives to try out.

Gymophobics

Designed for those with a fear of conventional gyms and health clubs, Gymophobics is a women-only gym which offers 30 minute workout circuits designed to make exercise fun and easy.

The gym has no mirrors, loud music or distracting TV screens, instead offering more personal attention from staff to assist members and help them feel at ease.

Visit: 32A Main Street, Garforth, LS25 1AA / 11 Bank Street, Wetherby, LS22 6NQ - gymophobics.co.uk

Dancing

Dance has long been thought of as good for the soul, so why not shimmy yourself fit at The Dance Studio where there are a great array of classes to get involved in, including street dance, hot Charleston, Cuban salsa and modern jazz.

Visit: The Dance Studio Leeds, Mill 6, Mabgate Mills, Macaulay Street, LS9 7SW – thedancestudioleeds.com

The Dance Studio Leeds offers an array of classes to suit all dance abilities (Photo: The Dance Studio Leeds/Other 3rd Party)

Aerial Yoga

Taking yoga to new heights with the use of low hanging fabrics used to support your body weight through a variety of postures, this unique class is a great way to improve strength and flexibility without putting too much strain on your joints.

Visit: Aerial Yoga Leeds – facebook.com/aerialyogaleeds

Outdoor and military fitness

These outdoor-based bootcamps are ideal for those who hate to exercise alone, as they focus on team work activities to make the sessions more social and fun.

The varied sessions are suitable for all abilities and are held at a range of locations around Leeds, including Roundhay Park, Kirkstall Abbey and Temple Newsam.

More info: ukoutdoorfitness.com / britmilfit.com

Pole fitness

This challenging workout combines both cardio and strength to help tone the whole body, and while it may look deceptively easy, beginners classes can burn more than 400 calories in an hour.

Visit: Mill 6, Mabgate Mills, Macaulay Street, LS9 7SW – thedancestudioleeds.com

Climbing

Test your mettle scaling the vertical, overhanging and slab walls at The Climbing Lab, where you'll have more than 500 metres of climbing surface to both show off and challenge your strength.

Visit: 14 Kirkstall Industrial Park, Milford Place, LS4 2AZ – climbinglab.co.uk

Take your fitness regime to new heights at The Climbing Lab (Photo: Scott Merrylees)

Calisthenics

A great alternative to lifting weights in the gym, Calisthenics involves using your own body weight to build muscles and strength, and with an array of well equipped, free-to-use outdoor parks around Leeds to train in, you won't be lumped with that pesky gym fee either.

More info: calisthenics-parks.com

Swimming

If spending hours plodding on a treadmill isn't your thing, why not take to the pool instead?

The low impact activity will put less strain on your joints and there are plenty of public baths around the city to enjoy a dip, including Bramley Baths, Kirkstall Leisure Centre and John Charles Centre for Sport.

More info: active.leeds.gov.uk

Trampolining

Take your exercise regime to new heights and bounce yourself fit at Oxygen Freejumping Trampoline Park, where the classes incorporate elements of circuit, combat and HIIT fitness to work your whole body.

Visit: Oxygen Freejumping Trampoline Park, Cardigan Fields, Kirkstall Road, LS4 2DG – oxygenfreejumping.co.uk