5 Exercise Classes Not to Skip on Your Next Cruise

Whether you’re a fitness guru or just want to stay in shape while cruising, you’re in luck. There’s a smorgasbord of workout options available on cruises that are anything but ordinary. Here are some classes we think you’ll enjoy so much that you’ll forget you’re breaking a sweat.

1. The Line: Princess & Celebrity Cruises

Tour de Cycle: Inspired by the Tour de France — the biggest cycling event in the world — this three-part spinning course is offered by both Princess and Celebrity Cruise Lines. The class is about $12.00, and a portion of the proceeds go to the Lance Armstrong’s Livestrong Foundation in the fight against cancer.

2. The Line: Holland America

Tai Chi: This free class is a great way to wake up and start your day by putting your best foot forward.  Combining martial arts and meditation in this traditional Chinese practice, Tai Chi is said to be a pathway to mental and physical health.

3. The Line: Princess Cruises

Zumba: Passengers on Princess Cruise Lines can enjoy the dance class that blends “red-hot international music” and “contagious steps.” Each Princess vessel will offer the class at least once per cruise, free of charge, in their Club Fusion, the Piazza or the outside deck.

4. The Line: Seabourn 

Kinesis Wall: Using a series of pulleys and cables to increase flexibility, a Kinesis Wall provides rehabilitation and creates muscle definition, while being gentler on the body than regular machines. Free training is available. The wall accommodates up to four passengers at a time and private Kinesis is available in higher level suites.

5. The Line: P&O Cruises’ Ventura

Circus School Workshop: Ever wonder what it would be like to run away and join the circus? Now you can find out. Try walking on a tight-wire, flying trapeze, stilt-walking, juggling or flipping on a trampoline, all of which are taught to you by trained performers. Classes are complimentary and offered on a drop-in basis.

6. The Line: Royal Caribbean

Onboard Surfing: Though not really an exercise class, it’s sure to get heart pumping. Freedom and Oasis-class ships offer free onboard surfing via The FlowRider – water shoots up a sloped platform and simulates an actual wave– for beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers. Try flowboarding (stand up) or bodyboarding (laying down), just please make sure you meet the height requirements for each.

What are some of your favorite exercise classes both onboard and on shore? Tell us in the comments below!