Barry’s blends high-intensity treadmill cardio with strength training in its signature RUN x LIFT classes. Each day of the week focuses on different muscle groups for the strength-training workout to achieve accurate results and to help reduce the risk of injuries, including upper body, lower body, abs and total body.

Barry’s was founded in 1998 by Barry Jay and John and Rachel Mumford in West Hollywood. Now, there are over 88 studios across 14 countries and more than140,000 members of the Barry’s Fit Fam. 

Barry’s opened its first-ever Arizona location on North Scottsdale Road in 2024. It features its iconic Red Room with dim red lights, antimicrobial rubberized flooring, a booming sound system with specially curated playlists from best-in-class instructors, weights, bands, benches, and state-of-the-art Woodway treadmills.

Research shows that working out with others boosts motivation, accountability, and enjoyment. A study found that 95 percent of people who started working out with friends completed it, compared to 76 percent who went solo. The friend group was also 42 percent more likely to maintain their efforts.

The Scottsdale location offers a range of class packages and memberships, with options starting at $30 per class and class packages starting at $145. For more information, visit barrys.com.

The Workshop Pilates is opening a new Arcadia location, featuring the Valley’s first-ever infrared heated mat Pilates class! 

With additional locations in McCormick Ranch and North Scottsdale, The Workshop Pilates is a premier fitness studio that offers Pilates sessions through group classes, private and semi-private programs and teacher training.

The new infrared-heated class at The Workshop Pilates Arcadia will feature a detoxifying 95-degree workout, allowing your body to gradually heat up as you go through the class to improve flexibility and cardiovascular conditioning. 

“We saw the need for an infrared heated mat Pilates concept in the Valley and we knew The Workshop was the perfect studio to bring the burn,” says Ariel Schwartz, co-owner of The Workshop Pilates. “Heated fitness has so many benefits to the body and mind, including boosted immunity, detoxification, pain relief and reduced blood pressure. We have no doubt that the Arcadia community will love it just as much as we do.” 

In addition to infrared heated mat Pilates, The Workshop Arcadia will feature different types of Pilates for all levels, including: 

• Move: Work through all planes of movement with various different equipment pieces and props. Class is finished with The Workshop’s signature stretch series. 
• Circuit: A full-body workout from station to station on different pieces of Pilates equipment. BOSU balls, resistance bands and weights intensify the workout. 
• Elevate: Amp up your Pilates practice by incorporating the jump board, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and cardio exercises. 
• Melt: Gently wake up and lengthen muscles as The Workshop’s expert instructors walk you through yoga flows and deep stretches on the reformer.

Opening Monday, May 13, The Workshop’s new Arcadia studio is taking over the tenancy of the historic building previously occupied by the Madison Improvement Club, which closed in August 2023. The location will also feature an area for an esthetician practice and a juice bar. 

Constructed in 1917, the building was originally used as a meeting place for pioneer women to discuss important issues from education and arts to politics and agriculture. In 2012, The Madison Improvement Club took over the space creating a community of fitness enthusiasts, spin lovers and yogis. The building has held a special place in the Arcadia community, marking a milestone as The Workshop re-opens the space to the public. 

“We know fitness is at the core of this historic space, and we can’t wait to bring The Workshop’sPilates principles to Arcadia,” says Jackie Parks, co-owner of The Workshop Pilates. “We believe in the power of Pilates to transform lives. We look forward to strengthening bodies and our community bonds in this tight-knit neighborhood.” 

The Workshop welcomes the public to celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, May 18 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the newly-named Arcadia Improvement Club at 3802 E. Indian School Road. There, visitors can tour the facility, enjoy local vendors and giveaways, and take advantage of The Workshop Arcadia’s opening day Founder’s Rate promotion, offering monthly discounts for bundled classes. 

To learn more and book classes, visit www.theworkshoppilates.com

Photos courtesy The Workshop Pilates

When it comes to hikes, Arizona is the place to be. Use this fall hiking guide to gear up for this year’s hiking season in Arizona.

This story is from our special edition IN AZ 2024 issue. Read the full issue online here for more inside intel on where to stay, dine and everything in between IN AZ this season and all year round.

Red Rock Crossing, Sedona 

This easy-going 1.8-mile hike leads to the banks of Oak Creek. One of the most photographed areas in Sedona, Red Rock Crossing is famous for its fiery red rocks and spiritual vortexes. The trail is mostly shaded by trees and is fairly flat. The relaxed path through the forest is the perfect trail for kids and those who don’t want anything too strenuous. The trail is walkable but can also be used for biking. Bring a picnic basket and your swimsuit or water shoes to take a dip in the swimming holes. Enjoy snacking in the shade, playing in the water and catching crawdads. The leaves change during the fall, so you’re sure to get some beautiful photos. Sedona is famous for its vortexes, supposed geological and spiritual phenomenon of swirling energy. Because of this, Red Rock Crossing is also a popular spot for meditation and yoga. www.visitsedona.com

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Phoenix

Tonto National Park’s Natural Bridge is the world’s largest natural travertine bridge. Water drips down from the bridge, pooling at the bottom and creating waterfalls. Located just two hours northeast of Phoenix, this rewarding hike makes for the perfect day trip. In the fall, the weather is nice enough to not work up too much of a sweat on the way down to the bridge base. There are four trails around the bridge, but the Gowan Trail is the longest and most scenic. On the way down to the base of the bridge, you will see the creek, get to hike under the bridge and stand on a viewing deck in front of the waterfall. Gowan Trail is only 1.4 miles but can be steep and slippery. Other trails have less incline but still offer views of the bridge. Be sure to bring water shoes to climb the slippery terrain at the bottom of the bridge. There are picnic tables and restrooms at the top of the bridge, so pack a lunch to enjoy after the hike. The entry area to the bridge also has a small shop with gifts and refreshments, plus a large rental property perfect for events. Entry is $7 for adults, $4 for kids ages 7–13 and free for those under age 7. www.azstateparks.com 

Horseshoe Bend Trail, Page

This trail only takes around 30 minutes to complete and has a beautiful view of the Colorado River wrapped around Horseshoe Bend. This fantastic view of the river is in Page, Ariz., near the Utah border, about four hours from Phoenix. While the Horseshoe Bend Trail isn’t long or difficult, the view makes this trail very exciting. Leashed dogs are welcome, and this trail is great for everyone as it’s only 1.5 miles and is also accessible by wheelchair. This view of Horseshoe Bend is very popular with tourists for good reason. The hike is free, but you must pay for parking before starting the short hike. For frequent hikers and sightseers, this area has lots to explore. While in Page, be sure to take a tour into Antelope Canyon and visit the Glen Canyon Dam, which stores water from the Colorado River. Lake Powell is also located in Page and is another spot for great views and photos. www.nps.gov

Seven Falls, Tucson 

Seven Falls is a popular hike in Tucson with many different trails to explore. The hike begins at Sabino Canyon Recreation Area at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The longest trail is 8.2 miles long but can be made shorter by taking an $8 tram up to the trailhead, which reduces the hike down to 4.6 miles. The trail is considered moderately easy with a subtle incline but very little shade. This hike offers many different stops to view water crossings and falls. The trail has plenty of Sonoran wildlife and plants like saguaros, chollas and ocotillo. At the end of the path is a desert oasis of ponds and waterfalls. Seven Falls is most beautiful after monsoon season when the waterfalls are full. Be sure to bring plenty of water on this long hike because there isn’t much shade. Day passes into Sabino Canyon are $8 per vehicle. www.arizonahikersguide.com

Sunrise Peak, Scottsdale 

This 3.8-mile out-and-back trail near Fountain Hills is beautiful in the fall. Sunrise Peak is a lesser summit of the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed. This is a moderately challenging hike with rocky terrain that can be completed in around two hours. The trail has little shade and can be slippery or steep at times. The McDowell Mountains are full of beautiful wildlife and foliage to see while hiking. The trail is popular with runners and early-morning hikers catching the sunrise. Other trails within the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy can be biked on, but the Sunrise Trail is only trail for hiking and running. www.mcdowellsonoran.org

*Information listed is subject to change. Please check the respective websites for the most up-to-date information and availability.

Imagine a practice so serene that it invites you to pause, breathe and delve into the depths of stillness. Yin Yoga, with its roots deeply embedded in Chinese and Taoist traditions, is the embodiment of such tranquility.

Unlike the dynamic sequences of Vinyasa or the powerful poses of Power Yoga, Yin Yoga is the art of stillness. It’s where each pose is a moment of introspection, a gentle stretch of the deeper connective tissues and a pathway to enhanced breath awareness. Yin Yoga is not merely a physical practice but a journey towards inner calm, increased mindfulness and a deeper connection with oneself.

Yin Yoga is your haven from the hustle and bustle, a practice that complements the vigorous activities of life with its slow, meditative approach. This practice is not about building heat or breaking a sweat; it’s about cooling down, grounding and nurturing your body and soul. Each posture, held for minutes per stretch, becomes a mirror reflecting your inner self, revealing tensions and patterns that gently guide you toward release and relaxation.

Three Pillars of Yin Yoga

At the heart of Yin Yoga are three fundamental principles that serve as guideposts on your journey to inner peace:

1. Find Your Edge – Yin Yoga celebrates individuality, recognizing that each body is unique. It encourages you to explore postures to a depth that feels right for you, honoring your body’s needs and limitations on any given day.

2. Resolve to Remain Still – Embracing stillness in Yin Yoga allows for a deeper impact on the connective tissues, fostering a profound sense of calm and centeredness. This principle challenges you to resist the urge to fidget, to truly be present in the moment.

3. Hold for Time – The magic of Yin Yoga unfolds in the duration of the hold. As you maintain a pose, you give your body the time it needs to open up, allowing your fascia to stretch and your mind to silence. 

The Transformative Benefits of Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is more than just a series of poses; it’s a gateway to a myriad of benefits that extend beyond the mat. Physically, it targets the connective tissues, enhancing flexibility and joint mobility and promoting the health of the fascia. Yin Yoga is also a powerful tool for mental and emotional well-being. It teaches patience, resilience and the art of letting go, reducing stress and anxiety and fostering a deep sense of peace.

This practice is a balm for the soul, a momentary escape from the relentless pace of life, offering a space to breathe, to feel and to simply be. Yin Yoga invites participants to slow down, connect with the present and find balance in the yin and yang of our existence.

Embracing Yin Yoga in Your Life

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, Yin Yoga is accessible to all. It’s the perfect complement to an active lifestyle, offering balance and restoration. As you step onto the mat, you enter a world of stillness, a space where time slows down and the journey inward begins.Interested in taking a Yin Yoga class?

Check out Best of Our Valley winner CA Yoga Barre’s Yin classes here. The studio boasts a variety of classes and has been voted the Best Yoga Studio and Best Barre Studio in this year’s Best Of Our Valley contest. 

Pvolve, a leading fitness brand known for its holistic and unique workouts, plans to launch six new studios across Arizona, including three in Phoenix, two in Scottsdale and one in Chandler, over the coming year

Founded in 2017 by Rachel Katzman, Pvolve is a fitness company that prioritizes a science-led workout method, marrying functional movement with patented resistance equipment.

Supported by a Clinical Advisory Board of doctors and credentialed trainers, Pvolve offers an effective workout solution that aims to sculpt, strengthen and enhance the body’s mobility and flexibility. With its hybrid fitness model, members can access over 1,300 on-demand classes, a live virtual studio and targeted series through its web and mobile app platforms. 

The brand’s success and unique approach have attracted notable partnerships, including actress Jennifer Aniston, who credits Pvolve for her physical transformation. 

Pvolve’s growth reflects a shift in fitness culture as its method has quickly gained popularity for challenging the traditional belief that high-intensity, punishing workouts are the only way to achieve fitness goals. Instead, the company’s innovative approach to fitness combines low-impact exercises with proprietary equipment, like its unique bands and mats, for a workout that emphasizes sustainability and effectiveness. According to Pvolve’s Healthy Aging study, these exercise methods are more beneficial than traditional moderate cardio and strength training. Compared to traditional exercise regimens, Pvolve’s methods can be more effective for improving strength, flexibility, energy and quality of life, particularly for women over 40. 

“What drew me to the method was its ability to push me to my limits without leaving me feeling completely drained. It’s something truly different,” says Jeanine Yonushonis, co-owner of Pvolve Phoenix, “I’ve always been passionate about group fitness classes, so when I discovered Pvolve’s functional fitness approach, I knew it would strike a chord with our local community.” 

Pvolve stands out in the evolving fitness industry for its dedication to holistic health experiences. This focus on longevity and full body care makes it a fitting addition to the healthy communities of Phoenix, Chandler and Scottsdale. 

“Pvolve isn’t just a passing trend; it’s a genuine investment in health and well-being, promoting longevity and enhancing both physical health and as well as one’s physique.” shared Whitney Goodwin, co-owner of Pvolve Phoenix.

For those interested in Pvolve’s innovative fitness method or franchise opportunities, visit www.pvolve.com.

Photos courtesy Pvolve

Barry’s, a high-energy cardio and strength interval training studio from Los Angeles, is soon making its way to the Valley.

The new Scottsdale studio is scheduled to open in February 2024 at 6107 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite C09.

“At Barry’s we are dedicated to changing lives worldwide through our workouts and community. We believe in working hard, having fun and finding your strength,” says Joey Gonzalez, Global CEO of Barry’s. “Scottsdale is the perfect fit for what we have to offer, and we can’t wait to see it come to life.”

Barry’s classic RUN x LIFT classes blend high-intensity treadmill cardio with strength training in a dynamic group fitness setting. For those wishing to forego the cardio component, guests can book a “double floor” option of strength training. Each day focuses on different muscle groups—such as Upper Body, Lower Body, Abs and Ass, and Total Body—to achieve real results and to help reduce the risk of injuries.

The Red Room is a signature aspect of Barry’s, featuring dim red lights, antimicrobial rubberized flooring, a booming sound system, weights, bands, benches and Woodway treadmills. 

In its 25-year history, Barry’s has expanded globally and encompasses 84 studios. The company has turned its fitness studios into a community by priding itself on diversity, inclusion and safety efforts. 

To learn more about Barry’s Scottsdale, visit barrys.com. 

Photos courtesy Barry’s

Arizona is the best state to visit for winter hiking, according to a recent study conducted by Viator, a Tripadvisor company. 

To determine the best winter hiking state, travel experts created a points-based index system that analyzed the number of hike trails, the number of hike trails per 100,000 people, the minimum, maximum and average temperature, average precipitation levels and the average rating of hike trails in each state. 

The research revealed that Arizona ranks as the top winter hiking state with an overall score of 8.04 out of 10. The highest-rated trail in Arizona is the Devil’s Bridge Trail near Sedona. The moderately difficult hike scored a 4.7 out of 5. 

Arizona has over 3,200 hiking trails that have an average rating of 4.5 out of 5. The warmer winter climate realizes an average temperature of 64 degrees and an average precipitation of 2.83 inches, making for ideal hiking conditions. Arizona was followed by New Mexico (7.73/10), California (7.43/10) and Utah (7.35/10). 

When hiking in winter, choosing the trail that is right for you is important. Using resources and apps like AllTrails can provide key information about length, elevation and difficulty. Make sure to check the weather and trail conditions as well as dress appropriately before venturing out for a day of exploration. In winter, it is important to maximize daylight, which means it is best to set off early and choose sunnier trails. As always, bring water and snacks for the journey ahead. 

With these tips in mind, you can be sure to safely enjoy one of Arizona’s many hiking trails. For more information about popular trails in Arizona, visit alltrails.com.

Online fitness website Total Shape used average monthly Google searches to find the most popular fitness activities in each state. By finding the number of specific fitness classes searched for in each region, they were able to identify the biggest fitness classes in each state. 

Ranked number one both in Arizona and nationally is boxing. This high-intensity sport works to train muscle and burn calories. The sport of boxing dates all the way back to the Olympics in Ancient Greece, though hand-to-hand combat has always existed between humans. Phoenix is home to dozens of boxing gyms, even ones specifically for women. 

The second most popular workout in Arizona is pilates, a low-impact exercise designed to help both mind and body. Pilates was invented by physical trainer Joseph Pilates in Germany during the early 20th century. The exercise is made to build flexibility, strength and control of the body, and specifically helps to build core strength. 

The third most popular workout in Arizona is dance, which is a broad category. Dance workouts can include jazzercise, Zumba, pole fitness and dance aerobics. Dancing can help to increase flexibility, stamina and strength while reducing stress and improving sleep. With so many types of dance fitness, this category has something for everyone. 

The fourth most popular exercise is HIIT, which is an acronym for high-intensity interval training. This means intensive exercise is done in short bursts between resting periods. This type of exercise is good for conditioning and increasing athletic capacity. Because HIIT can be so extreme, it’s not suitable for everyone. 

Lastly, yoga ranks number five in Arizona’s most popular workouts. Yoga, like pilates, can benefit both mind and body. Yoga uses slow movements and mindfulness to improve balance, strength and flexibility. Because of its low intensity, yoga can be done after other exercises to cool down, stretch and relax. 

Across the U.S., boxing ranks as the most popular workout with an average monthly search volume of 402,077 searches, and ranks number one in 42 states. Pilates comes in second nationally with 329,897 monthly searches, followed by dance with 259,414 searches. 

With so many varieties of fitness there is something for everyone, whether you like to hit the gym hard or take it easy with some low impact exercise.

Surf’s up Mesa! A 37-acre surf, shop, gym, and multi-use development project is set to break ground on Tuesday, March 30 at 11 a.m. The oasis is being made possible by Cannon Beach Developers and is located at the cross streets of Power and Warner roads in Mesa.

The project, two and a half years in design and development, will bring the ocean to Arizona in a place unlike any other in the state.

We hope Cannon Beach will bring out the best in its patrons by challenging them to join or at least be inspired by, new activities.

– Cole Cannon, lead developer at Cannon Beach

Revel Surf will anchor the development with a 3.3-acre surf lagoon that features the world’s first Swell MFG’s Traveling Surf Technology and UNIT Surf Pool’s Stationary Rapid Surf Technology, in one location. This unique combination will create a more natural surfing lineup with a peak wave rather than a right-session-only or left-session-only option as found in many of today’s wave pools. 

The Swell MFG will create peak waves and provide some of the most epic and diverse wave sets for every level of surfer. We look forward to welcoming every level of surfer to enjoy this surf lagoon.

– Matt Gunn, co-founder of Swell MFG

This new technology and layout have gained the attention of the professional surf community due to its ability to cater to all skill levels.

Our wave technology and vision for this project will be like nothing you have seen in the market to date and I’m so grateful to be a part of this incredible project and team.

– Shane Beschen, former pro surfer and X Games gold medalist.

Combining Swell MFG’s state-of-the-art traveling waves with the best stationary rapid surfing wave on the market by UNIT Surf Pool is going to make this surf park the most highly sought-after surf destination in the U.S.

Together you have the perfect surfing experience for people of all ages, abilities, and skill levels. There has never been a better opportunity for surf lessons and technical progression than there will be here.

– Tony Finn of UNIT Surf Pool and wakeboard creator

The development is geared toward the growing population settling in the east Valley. With a burgeoning influx of California surfers, young and old that have relocated to Arizona and yearn for the beach, as well first timers who want to venture into the world of surfing.

Whether you are a spectator or participant there is something for everyone at Cannon Beach — specialty dining, fish tacos on the beach, day spa, gym, splash pad for kids, and overall good vibes.

The Cannon Beach development design team includes talent from Hawaii to Germany. The land planning project was developed in consultation with Arizona locals EPS Engineering, H20 Design, and Adaptive Architects.

Revel Surf plans to open May 2022, with the surrounding amenities to follow including an on-sight hotel, retail, office, dining, and more. The Cannon Beach development ground is currently entertaining proposals from potential tenants for its various pad locations.

What Waist is an inclusive lifestyle brand that creates athletic gear and equipment to help you tone your body quickly and easily. They provide the workout accessories you need to succeed in your fitness journey. This isn’t just an exercise company, it’s an entire movement.

Founded on self-improvement and rooted in self-love, What Waist’s mission is to help Warriors achieve their healthy lifestyle goals. 

A Warrior is strong, fearless, and unstoppable; it is their belief that although our Warriors have weathered the most powerful storms within themselves and out, a true warrior is also kind, smart, and peaceful.

They truly believe in equality and continue to encourage diversity as every Warrior is beautiful and one-of-a-kind.  

ThermaTech Vapor

The signature silver lining is made from a unique metallic material that’s designed to trap your body heat, making you sweat and increasing the number of fat cells you lose.

ThermaTech Vapor is also antimicrobial, soft on the skin, and naturally cooling, so you never have to worry about feeling sticky and you can keep smelling fresh when you hit the gym. It never stops working and is totally exclusive to What Waist. You won’t find it anywhere else.

SweatTech

A key player in compression technology, SWEATtech combines layers of woven latex with curved metal rods. By creating excess warmth in these parts, your body produces more sweat and in turn, allows you to get rid of excess water weight and toxins.

The flexible SWEATtech rods compress and define your shape over time, helping you achieve the real results you want. 

Your favorite influencers and celebrities, such as Lizzo, Halle from ChloexHalle, Brandy, Jeannie Mai, Malika Haqq, Barbie Blank, and Olivia Pierson are sporting this hottest new fitness brand, 

What Waist! The brand is making waves for bringing fitness back to fashion, with performance gear designed to help you get the most out of your workouts. What Waist is an absolute must-have during your workouts!

For more information on the brand visit: https://whatwaist.com/