The new Equinox Signature Class tests your body with non-stop movements that flow with the beat of the music.
What do you get when you steal some of the best elements of traditional strength training, aerobic cardio methods, and music-driven fitness classes — then combine them into one workout?
Rhythmic Sculpt, a new Equinox signature class.
The exclusive class focuses on toning and strengthening, using fundamental movement patterns, light weights, high repetitions, and a beat-driven approach. Rhythmic Sculpt hits the Goldilocks zone of intensity; you won’t get the same quick heart-rate spikes as you would in Cardio Sculpt, nor will you cruise through gentle movements like in Barefoot Sculpt.
Instead, you’re encouraged to continuously perform low-impact, moderate-intensity movements. It’s a challenge that, over time, boosts endurance and tones the body, as the class generally keeps you in a heart-rate zone conducive to fat loss.
“Unlike other classes with peaks and valleys, Rhythmic Sculpt maintains a steady, elevated effort throughout,” explains Equinox Director of Group Fitness Programming Chris Vo. “This approach delivers benefits similar to high-intensity formats but with less physical stress — perfect for those seeking longevity in their fitness routines.” It’s particularly gentle on the joints, and due to the steady, low-stress format, any post-class soreness you might develop is typically easy to recover from — not debilitating, says Vo.
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Throughout the 45-minute class, you’ll test your body with a variety of strength exercises that seamlessly tie together. You might start with a deadlift, transition into a bent-over row, and follow it up with a sumo squat. Expect to use a step with risers and light- to medium-weight dumbbells
All of the movements mesh with the rhythm of the energetic music, which is capped at 128 beats per minute. (For reference, Foster the People’s “Pumped Up Kicks” has this cadence.) The result: a tempo-driven, full-body workout that prioritizes flow and continuous movement, says Vo. This stand-out feature makes Rhythmic Sculpt an ideal next-level challenge for members whose staple workouts are Pilates or barre.
Physical benefits aside, this rhythmic format provides a predictable, no-surprises training experience that fosters a feeling of “we’re all in this together.” “The synchronized, group-focused energy creates a strong sense of togetherness, making for an engaging and uplifting 45-minute experience,” says Vo. You can take comfort in knowing that your neighbor is dealing with the same hurts-so-good muscle burning as you.
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This unique combination of non-stop cardio, strength-training movements, and community is what makes Rhythmic Sculpt so challenging — but also so worthwhile. “At Equinox, we aim to unlock potential by delivering unparalleled group fitness experiences,” says Vo. “Rhythmic Sculpt embodies this mission…Members leave class feeling invigorated, not depleted — empowered to excel in all areas of life, perfectly aligning with the pursuit of high-performance living.”