Fitness With Friends

We know the motivation to fit into your dress is driving you to get in shape before the big day, but to give you the added push (and to find enjoyment in your workouts) gather your bridal party for group fitness fun.

Getting in shape together is a great idea. A support system will help you achieve your fitness goals faster, while having some laughs along the way. Here are our favourite ways to exercise together.

Join a Team Sport

Depending on the size of your bridal party, you’re probably close to having an entire team at your fingertips. Group sport, whether it is netball, touch football, or even beach volleyball, is a fun and effective way to tone your body in all the right paces. Plus, the commitment to show up each week will ensure you stick with it.

Register your team at Brisbane/Albion Indoor Sports Centre, brisbaneindoorsports.com.au.

Walk for a Cause

Don’t discount the benefits of walking over running. A decent paced stroll can accelerate fat loss, provide a cardio workout, and promote general wellbeing. Plus, you can chat to your girlfriends while you do it! Start by scheduling regular walks around nearby parks or along the river, (for a picturesque backdrop) and eventually work your way up to a charity walk where you can tone, hang out with the girls and give back to the community all at the same time.

Find a Relay for Life fundraising event near you at relayforlife.org.au.

Dance the Kilos Off

Dancing is an easy way to get into shape because you’ll be having a blast in won’t even feel like exercise. Choose from an array of classes, from Latin lessons (tango, anyone?) to hip hop classes (maybe you can bust your moves at the wedding reception).

Sign up for classes now at Dance Fitness, dancefitness.com.au.

The New Boot Camp

It’s called Paddle Boot Camp (although it goes by a couple of different names, depending on where you go), and it has all your typical boot camp moves (like beach sprints, push ups and squats) mixed with kayaking, too. Classes go for an hour, and private sessions can be organised just for your group. Once you get the hang of it you can even hire your own kayaks and do the routines sans-instructor- but only if you promise not to slack off!

Get into shape the fast and fun way with Incite’s Paddle for Fitness program, incitefirness.com.

Knot tip: While working out with your entire bridal party will be a great bonding experience, make sure you don’t pressure anyone into joining if it’s not their thing. This is not about forcing your friends to fit into a size 6 dress, it’s about helping each other achieve your (individual) pre-wedding fitness goals.