- Feel Good
- 27th Aug 2025
- 0
- 0 minute
Health is wealth – fitness studios you’ll actually want to go to (plus, an easy routine for the best results)
If you’ve been struggling to stick to a workout routine and motivate yourself to get up for a 6am HIIT class – it’s not you…
It’s the bad gym lighting, it’s the pressure to look a certain way, it’s the ‘characters’ you try to avoid eye contact with between sets.
But believe it or not, working out shouldn’t feel like a chore or a modern form of torture. When you have a good routine, a great gym and a community of people who encourage you, it can actually be kind of fun.
Plus – we’ve finally found the workout formula that works.
Weightlifting, Pilates and cardio – the workouts that have been flooding our feeds
We chatted with Pilates instructor and founder of KOVE CLUB, Kate Elizabeth, as she shares the truth behind these popular workouts and how combining them got her in the best shape of her life.
“Combining all three gives you a balanced, varied, and (hopefully!) enjoyable routine. Switching up your movement keeps your body guessing which is great for results and helps you stay healthy, strong, and injury-free for the long haul.”
says Kate.
WEIGHTLIFTING ISN’T JUST FOR MEN
There’s a common misconception that lifting weights will make women look bulky and that we should prioritise yoga or hot girl walks, but Kate explains why this couldn’t be less true.
“Weightlifting builds muscle, which plays a huge role in keeping our bones and joints strong and supported. This is especially important for women. As we age, it’s one of the best things we can do for long-term strength and independence.” says Kate.
“You don’t need to work out for hours. Especially at the gym, 20 mins is enough!” Kate adds. Even a few weightlifting sessions a week can make a huge difference in overall strength, plus you’ll be surprised at how quickly you start to see results.
If you’re looking for a gym that actually inspires you to workout, here’s where we’ve been going:
PILATES IS MORE THAN JUST AESTHETIC
“Pilates is a low-impact style of movement with a long list of benefits, from better posture and stronger core muscles to improved body awareness and overall health. and it’s really fun!” Kate shares.
Even though Pilates has been having a moment for a while now, it’s not all Instagram videos and Pilates princess’s. Mat and reformer classes both test your flexibility, balance and strength but the best part is that once you show up to the class, the hardest part is already over. The teacher will guide you through each movement, motivate you and push you further than you would on your own.
RUN CLUBS ARE WHERE CARDIO MEETS COMMUNITY
“Running boosts your cardiovascular health, burns a lot of calories, and helps build endurance over time. It’s also a great mental release and can feel really freeing. If you don’t like running I would suggest indoor cycling or outdoor walks (ideally where there are some hills).” says Kate.
We KNOW running is good for us but that doesn’t make it automatically fun. Enter run clubs. Turns out there’s a big difference between an hour on the treadmill and a social run with friends through the Town Moor. The fresh air, the time spent in nature and spotting a cute dog or even a cow all makes the experience when it comes to enjoying your cardio.
“Make working out a social occasion, book a class and invite a friend then have coffee after!”
says Kate
Here’s the inclusive and welcoming run clubs that make working out feel more like a hangout:
PUTTING EVERYTHING INTO PLACE
Combining these three workout styles is ideal for someone who is looking to improve their health and overall strength, when you focus on your wellbeing, the physical results follow.
Here’s Kate’s simple and realistic weekly structure:
- Monday: Weightlifting (Kate recommends an upper + lower body focus)
- Tuesday: Pilates (core and mobility)
- Wednesday: Run
- Thursday: Pilates (for full body)
- Friday: Rest day (or head out for an outdoor walk)
- Saturday: Long run, hike, or fun activity outdoors
- Sunday: Pilates (for recovery and flexibility)
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