Exercise Your Options: Five Niche Fitness Classes in Boston

Illustration by Eric Palma

One drawback to exercise (in addition to sore muscles) is the routine: Doing the same thing day after day can bore even the most dedicated workout warrior. “I got bored out of my mind using only [bikes, treadmills, and rowers] for years and years,” says Ray Peleckas, founder of the concept gym Burnin’ by Ray. And he isn’t the only one. Several local fitpreneurs have developed niche classes that remix the classics. Ready to rethink the way you sweat? Start here.

If you love Pilates, try…
SLT

The 50-minute classes at this recently opened studio aim to strengthen, lengthen, and tone the whole body using a Megaformer, a souped-up version of a traditional Pilates reformer. SLT also adds cardio and strength training to the mix—and takes fewer breaks between moves—making for a more intense workout.

$15 for the first visit, 341 Newbury St., Boston, 617-236-7333, sltnyc.com.

If you love running, try…
Precision Running Lab

Rainy days are no match for this studio, which began as a popular class at Equinox fitness club. Here, runners jog on tailored Woodway treadmills while an O₂ vaporizer simulates fresh air. Lighting and music synced to each run will help keep you motivated through the final stretch.

$30 per class, 200 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill, 617-991-9844, equinox.com.

If you love boats, try…
Power Rowing

Looking for a workout that’s somewhere between a regatta and a rowing machine? You’ll find your, ahem, crew at this new studio from Bryan Fuller, who rowed across the Atlantic Ocean in 2012. Catering to everyone from expert scullers to new moms, the program always features interval training. Choose from classes that end with Vinyasa flow yoga or row-and-sculpt sessions that mix in circuit training.

$25 per class, 62 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-505-3168, powerrowing.com.

If you love golf, try…
Lynx Fitness Club

If your swing needs a little work before you hit the back nine this summer, give Lynx a shot. Opened in the Boston Park Plaza this January by Boston College alums, the club boasts one of only four Topgolf Swing Suites (an indoor digital course with virtual games and onsite instructors available for lessons) in the country. You can even join a league.

$275 for a monthly membership, 64 Arlington St., Boston, 857-990-3785, lynxfitnessclub.com.

If you love the gym, try…
Burnin’ by Ray

ray Peleckas brings his Belmont “ungym” to a 4,000-square-foot Seaport space this summer. His low-impact, high-intensity group classes feature unique equipment, such as the treadwall (a vertical treadmill), the Nexersys (a simulated sparring partner with seven strike pads), and the Krank Cycle (a bike for your hands!).

$399 for a monthly membership, 157 Seaport Blvd., Boston, 617-932-1343, burninbyray.com.