In Club Archives | MOVATI Athletic

Group Fitness – Restorative Yoga

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Restorative yoga is a restful practice that encourages you to slow down and open your body through passive stretching. Some restorative yoga classes have participants barely moving, holding only a few postures.

Restorative yoga is a completely different experience than most other styles of yoga. Read on to learn more about restorative yoga, and why it’s so critical for your body and mind to slow down and embrace the power of rest.

Class Category: Yoga & Wellness

Studio: Sky Studio

Class Length: 60 Minutes

This is a unique blend of stretching, movement, and breath combined with a relaxing environment to promote the natural healing process. Includes 15 minutes of Savasana at the end of each class.

Story Credit: Jayde Kabeya, National Manager, Group Fitness Education & Kasia Kudzma, Yoga Lead & Education Specialist

As leaders in Group Fitness, we offer a wide range of classes for all levels, with up to 200 live classes per week. Included in all memberships, our in-person live group fitness classes are led by certified instructors in our purpose-built boutique studios. Join our supportive fitness community and discover the strength within you. Let’s move with MOVATI!

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

*MOVATI’s trainers and/or consultants are not health care providers, and do not provide any medical diagnosis, treatment or advice, and any trainer and/or consultant tips are not intended to replace the advice of a health care professional.

Group Fitness – Hot Hatha & Hatha Yoga

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Hatha yoga is a foundational style emphasizing physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation, while Hot Hatha is a variation of Hatha yoga practiced in a heated environment, typically around 38-42 degrees, often with a more dynamic routine.

Hot Hatha

Class Category: Yoga

Studio: Hot Studio

Class Length: 60 Minutes

Hot Yoga uses heat as a powerful detoxifying element to positively impact the body throughout the practice. The class grows through breath work, standing and balancing static postures and floor work to stretch the muscles and connective tissue. Each posture is held for long enough that a student can find themselves in it and build both strength and ease while there. This class serves anyone who loves the intensity of the heat and a strong, peaceful practice. Please bring your Yoga mat. A strap and block(s) are also welcome.

Hatha

Class Category: Yoga

Studio: Sky Studio

Class Length: 60 Minutes

The class grows through breath work, standing and balancing static postures and floor work to stretch the muscles and connective tissue. Each posture is held for long enough that a student can find themselves in it and build both strength and ease while there. This class serves anyone who loves a strong, peaceful practice. Please bring your Yoga mat. A strap and block(s) are also welcome.

Story Credit: Jayde Kabeya, National Manager, Group Fitness Education & Kasia Kudzma, Yoga Lead & Education Specialist

Group Fitness – Yin & Hot Yin Yoga

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Yin yoga is a style of yoga that focuses on holding poses for longer periods (3-5 minutes or more), targeting the deeper connective tissues, fascia, ligaments, joints, and bone.

Hot Yin yoga combines the principles of Yin yoga, focusing on holding poses for extended periods to release deep tissues, with the practice of yoga in a heated room, aiming to increase circulation and promote relaxation.

Yin

Class Category: Yoga

Studio: Sky Studio

Class Length: 60 – 75 Minutes

A deeply healing, grounding practice where postures are held for extended periods of time. Students learn to lean into gravity to elicit decompression of connective tissue and release physical and energetic blockages. Taught in the heat the practice facilitates detoxifying and deep stretching, taught in a cooler room and the practice facilitates structural change. Beneficial for every shape, size and level of activity from triathlete to newbie, first time to fierce Yogi. Please bring your Yoga mat. A strap and block(s) are also welcome.

Hot Yin

Class Category: Yoga

Studio: Hot Studio

Class Length: 60 – 75 Minutes

Hot Yoga uses heat as a powerful detoxifying element to positively impact the body throughout the practice. A deeply healing, grounding practice where postures are held for extended periods of time. Students learn to lean into gravity to elicit decompression of connective tissue and release physical and energetic blockages. Taught in the heat the practice facilitates detoxifying and deep stretching, taught in a cooler room and the practice facilitates structural change. Beneficial for every shape, size and level of activity from triathlete to newbie, first time to fierce Yogi. Please bring your Yoga mat. A strap and block(s) are also welcome.

Story Credit: Jayde Kabeya, National Manager, Group Fitness Education & Kasia Kudzma, Yoga Lead & Education Specialist

MOVATI Athletic’s Jessica Chiarello Wins Ottawa’s Favourite Fitness Influencer & Fitness Instructor

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MOVATI Athletic is proud to announce that Jessica Chiarello, a Level 5 Performance Coach and Pilates Reformer instructor from our Barrhaven Club, has won Ottawa’s Faces Magazine Favourite Fitness Influencer awards.

Presented by Mattamy Homes, the 2025 Ottawa Awards is the city’s largest people’s choice awards, recognizing excellence across more than 300 categories of businesses and professionals.

Jessica has been a valued member of MOVATI Athletic for over five years. She has been a key figure in filming fitness and Pilates Reformer content for MOVATI, generating over 250,000 views from her videos. With a dedicated following of over 17,000 across her social media channels, Jessica continues to inspire and motivate others on their fitness journeys.

We are incredibly proud of Jessica’s achievements and thank you all for your support in helping her win!

Story Credit: Anthony Cozzetto, Social Media Specialist

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Voting is now open! You can vote for Jessica in two categories:

✅ Fitness Influencer – Found under the Digital & Social category

✅ Fitness Instructor – Found under the Health & Wellness category

Cast your vote once per day until March 14th by following the link below:

Vote Here 👉 https://www.facesottawa.ca/awards

Winners will be announced on March 15th at 11:30 AM EST.

Cardio Exercises to Boost Heart Health and Stamina

FITNESS

In this modern age, maintaining cardiovascular health is more important than ever. One of the most effective ways to enhance cardiovascular health is through regular cardio exercises.

What are Cardio Exercises?

Cardio exercises, also known as cardiovascular exercises or aerobic exercises, are physical activities that increase the heart rate and promote the circulation of oxygenated blood throughout the body. Cardiovascular exercises not only strengthen the heart muscle but also enhance the efficiency of the entire cardiovascular system. Incorporating a mix of aerobic exercises into your routine can yield significant cardiovascular benefits over time.

Benefits of Cardio Exercises

Cardio exercises offer a myriad of benefits beyond just improving cardiovascular health. They help in weight management, enhance mood, boost energy levels, improve sleep quality, promote heart health, enhance stamina, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and stroke. Regular cardiovascular workouts strengthen the heart muscle, improve blood circulation, and lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Additionally, engaging in aerobic activities increases stamina and endurance, allowing you to perform daily tasks with ease and tackle physical challenges more effectively.

Types of Cardio Exercises

Bungee Workout™

With a focus on choreography, experience the feeling of gracefully flying in the air with this core-focused, toning, full body workout that improves balance and stability.

Dancing

Whether it’s dancing in our BurlesK studio class or in a club, dancing is a fun and enjoyable way to get your heart rate up and burn calories. Various dance styles such as Zumba, salsa, hip-hop, and ballet offer cardiovascular benefits.

Walking

An accessible and low-impact exercise suitable for individuals of all fitness levels It can be done indoors on a treadmill or outdoors in various settings such as parks, neighborhoods, or hiking trails.

Running

A high-intensity aerobic exercise that involves moving at a fast pace, typically faster than a brisk walk Running can be done on treadmills, tracks, roads, or trails, and it offers numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular endurance and calorie burning.

Cycling

Whether it’s riding a stationary bike at the gym, cycling outdoors on roads or trails, or participating in spin classes, cycling is an effective cardio exercise that strengthens the lower body muscles and improves cardiovascular health

Swimming

Perfect for any fitness level, our aqua-fit classes offer a great combination of cardio and conditioning exercise. Water provides full-body resistance while being low-impact, making it ideal for those with injuries or desiring a more therapeutic workout. We offer a wide range of classes and open swim times to fit your schedule. So, what are you waiting for? Jump in and join the fun.

HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)

HIIT involves alternating between short bursts of intense exercise and brief rest periods. This type of workout is highly effective for improving cardiovascular fitness, burning calories, and boosting metabolism in a shorter amount of time.

Kickboxing

Combining martial arts techniques with cardio exercises, kickboxing workouts provide a high-intensity cardio workout that also helps improve coordination, balance, and flexibility.

How Much Cardio Exercise Do You Need?

According to the Australian Department of Health guidelines, adults should aim for at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio exercise or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week, spread across several sessions. This translates to about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise on most days of the week.

Safety Tips for Cardio Workouts

Start Slow

If you’re new to exercise or have any underlying health conditions, start with low-intensity activities and gradually increase the intensity over time.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workouts to prevent dehydration.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to any warning signs such as chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, and stop exercising if you experience any discomfort.

Proper Warm-up and Cool-down

Always begin your workouts with a proper warm-up and end with a cool-down to prevent injuries and muscle soreness.

Conclusion

Incorporating cardio exercises into your routine is key to maintaining optimal cardiovascular health. Whether you prefer walking, running, cycling, swimming, or any other type of aerobic activity, finding activities you enjoy can make staying active a rewarding and sustainable lifestyle choice. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

What To Expect from MOVATI Athletic Albany

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Fitness, Redesigned, Reimagined.

Get ready to be moved!

Imagine a space where contemporary architecture seamlessly blends with an immersive fitness design, enhanced by leading-edge wellness amenities. Our redesigned and reimagined club offers an all-in-one fitness experience that will truly inspire you!

Where Strength Meets Ambition

Enjoy a spacious and well-equipped weight floor and cardio deck with a wide variety of premium brand equipment, offering the best-in-class models at MOVATI Albany.

Unwind and Revitalize

MOVATI Albany offers spa-like premium amenities, including a member lounge, Café featuring privacy pods, spacious change rooms with private showers, steam rooms, and saunas. Enjoy our aquatics area, featuring a hot tub, cold plunge and a 25-metre lap pool.

Push Your Limits Together

Discover the perfect class in one of our 7 boutique-style purpose-built studios, designed for group fitness activities like hot yoga, pilates, dance, cycling, and high-intensity training in a supportive and fun group setting.

A Club Within A Club: Women’s Only

The way we see it, being able to feel comfortable and completely at ease during your visit is absolutely essential. Our Women’s Only area is like a “club within a club”, offering women members the option of a private and fully-equipped fitness space just for women.

MOVATI Recharge: Wellness Redefined

MOVATI Recharge is a space where holistic health meets tranquility. This wellness area provides a rejuvenating experience for your mind, body, and soul. Feel your best using red light and compression therapy, and improve movement with fascial stretch therapy. Enjoy private contrast therapy, featuring access to your own cold plunge pool, infrared sauna and shower.

Where Fitness and Connection Meet

More than just a place to work out, MOVATI serves as a social hub, fostering a sense of community and setting the standard for a welcoming and inclusive fitness environment.

Check out the MOVATI Albany web page for more details. The waitlist is filling up, limited spots available to secure your founding membership visit https://movatiathletic.com/albany/

About MOVATI Athletic

MOVATI Athletic is a privately held company with 18 locations across Ontario and Alberta. Established in 1997, MOVATI Athletic is a pioneer in the fitness industry offering an experience that goes beyond just working out. It offers a full range of the latest fitness services and amenities tailored to its members’ needs. With nearly 2,000 full- and part-time team members, its caring and exceptional people ensure that members feel welcome, feel comfortable and feel healthy. Driven by a vision to empower people’s lives through fitness and health, making the communities it serves healthier and happier, MOVATI Athletic is poised for growth nationally and internationally.

New Class Format: Rave Ride

FITNESS

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new cycle format – Rave Ride!

This new 45-minute class will launched in all MOVATI Athletic clubs in 2025.

Rave Ride is different from Speed & Power and Rhythm & Beats. It is an immersive experience fueled by music, energy, and results. Harnessing the power of music, expert coaching, and real-time metrics, we will climb, sprint, and jump our way to the finish line. Get ready to be so energized during the ride that you’ll surpass your own expectations without even realizing it!

Differences with Speed & Power:

No Functional Threshold Power (FTP) test – The FTP is a cycling performance test that happens at the beginning of every class to measure the maximum average power a cyclist can sustain for 3-5 minutes to calibrate your bike to your ride.
Gift Track – Our gift track is the half waypoint where the instructor gives the entire class a 3-4 minute break before finishing the second half of class.
Music is ONLY Electronic Dance Music (EDM) – To match the theme of a Rave, EDM includes many genres, such as house, techno, trance, drum and bass. This type of music is known to get people moving and the blood pumping – just like a good cycle class.
Not an outdoor ride – Speed and Power is known to take the outdoor ride inside and has a strong focus on metrics to help challenge you to improve every class.
No heads-up display – The big screen in our RIDE studio are shutoff and only lights and music will be the main focus of the class.

Differences with Rhythm & Beats:

No Choreography – Unlike Rhythm & Beats that incorporates different types of choreography during our classes, Rave Ride is fueled by music, energy, and results.
No Weights – Light weights will not be used in our Rave Ride classes.
Not a Rhythm Ride – Build on the no choreography, the Rave Ride will get you energized during the ride helping you to surpass your own expectations without even realizing it.

Who Is This For

Rave Ride cycle classes are for people who like to have fun while working out, get energized by music, lights and feel the hype when riding a bike. This class is a high-intensity workout that focuses on moving to the beat of the music.

We look forward to showing you what this class has to offer. Available for reservation on the Group Fitness Schedule.

Join MOVATI Today and get started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming and improve your mobility and recovery by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

Story Credit: Jayde Kabeya, National Manager, Group Fitness Education

12 Days of Yoga

FITNESS

Who said the holiday season is the wrong time to practice yoga? There’s no wrong time to de-stress yourself with some stretching, meditation and breath control. Roll out your mat and add these 12 poses to your practice.

Don’t do them all at once. Try one pose each day of the festive season to let your body and mind gradually soak up the holiday spirit!

Day 1: A Partridge in a Pear Tree

Tree Pose

Day 2: Turtle Doves

Warrior 2

Day 3: French Hens

Warrior 3

Day 4: Calling Birds

Plank – lift up each of your 4 limbs one at a time Or Crow Pose

Day 5: Golden Rings

Wheel

Day 6: Geese a Laying

Pigeon

Day 7: Swans a Swimming

Cobra

Day 8: Maids a Milking

Cow Face Pose

Day 9: Ladies Dancing

Dancer’s Pose

Day 10: Lords a Leaping

Standing Split or Hand to Big Toe

Day 11: Pipers Piping

Close twist crescent lunge with hands mimicking a pipe

Day 12: Drummers Drumming

Warrior 1

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming and improve your mobility and recovery by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

Machine Orientation

FITNESS

When you first step into one of our clubs, it feels like you’ve walked into a maze of machines and equipment. There are weights, cardio machines, and more, all designed to help you achieve your fitness goals. However, figuring out how to use these machines correctly can be a daunting task, especially if you’re a beginner or haven’t had any formal training.

That’s where a machine orientation from one of our certified performance coaches comes in. Whether you’re new to fitness or just unfamiliar with the equipment, understanding how to use machines properly is essential for safety, effectiveness, and making the most of your workouts.

What to Expect During Your MOVATI Machine Orientation

Introduction to Different Machine Types
Proper Adjustments for Your Body
Proper Form and Technique
Safety Guidelines
Creating a Personalized Workout Plan

Why a MOVATI Machine Orientation is Important

Reduces the Risk of Injury
Maximizes Your Workout Efficiency
Boosts Confidence
Helps Build Good Habits Early On

If you’re interested in learning more about different machines and how to use them properly, register for a free machine orientation session in the app or stop by the front desk!

Exciting News: A Title Change for Enhanced Member Experience

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At MOVATI Athletic, we’re always looking for ways to improve your experience and create a welcoming environment that’s both inviting and supportive. Today, we’re excited to share a change that reflects this commitment—one that recognizes the hard work and dedication of a key group of team members who contribute so much to your time here.

We’re updating the title of one of our essential roles from “Custodian” to “Facility Attendant”. This new title is a reflection of how vital these team members are in maintaining and enhancing the overall atmosphere of our clubs. While the term “custodian” traditionally focuses on cleaning, our Facility Attendants do far more than that. They ensure our facility is safe, functional, and an enjoyable space for both members and staff.

Here are 3 Ways MOVATI Facility Attendants Help to Improve the Member Experience

Delivering a safe and 5-star immaculate environment, always keeping the gym spotless and well-maintained.
Providing exceptional service, using the MOVATI 3 Steps of Service to support your fitness journey.
Building connections with members, helping to create a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere.

This title change is just one part of our ongoing efforts to recognize the full value these team members bring to your fitness experience.

We’re excited about this update and confident it will help create an even better experience for all of our members.

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with This Special Offer. Already a member? To customize programming and help you improve your training, consult with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.