CLASS PASS SERIES: An Oldie But Goodie…Circuit Works!

So when I say ” an oldie but goodie,” it’s because I have been going to Circuit Works on and off for a few years now. I don’t remember where exactly I first heard of their program, but I remember they had a deal a few years back and I wanted to try something different, so I bought a few classes. This was when the program was located on Abbot Kinney in Venice. Parking was pretty tough and it was kind of out of my way, so I took a few classes and then stopped. I always liked the program though, and when I found out they had a new location on Main Street in Venice and it was part of Class Pass, I decided to check it out.

Circuit Works is exactly what is sounds like, a circuit training studio. There are 10 treadmills and 10 weight training stations. A typical workout will start on the treadmill or floor for 2 minutes. If you are on a treadmill, you are encouraged by the instructor to bring your incline up to a certain set point and either jog or run. When you come down, you will be given a number on the floor to start with. This could be anything from weighted leg lifts to seated rowing with a resistance band to squats on a BOSU ball. You might also be asked to start on the floor, in which case you would complete the exercise at the selected numbered section you are given for two minutes, then head to the treadmill after for two minutes, and so on and so forth. One other thing, sometimes the instructors will mix things up and have everyone come to the floor for a set of jumping jacks or high knees, so there is always a little extra variety.

It is thought that by combining Aerobic (cardio) and Anaerobic (strength training) exercises in this sort of manner, you can burn more calories per minute and increase stored fat expenditure, leading to fast weight loss and improved muscle tone. I left this class POURING sweat, so I have no choice but to agree. Although, I am sure it is most effective when you go a few times a week, which, on Class Pass, I can only go to this particular program 3 times in a month. You can also modify the inclines and heaviness of the weights to your comfort level.

The instructors are all very personable. Even the owner himself, Raphael Varela, is there most days making sure things are running smoothly. The gym is bright in its decor (yellow and black) and has a restroom towards the back. As for parking, you might get lucky with a 2 hour street parking area, but if not, there are meters everywhere or underground parking at the Archstone across the street.

CIRCUIT WORKS

2005 Main Street

Santa Monica, CA 90405