I Tried All The Popular Classes At Equinox - Here Are My Top Recommendations

Most of us know the basics about Equinox: the gym chain, which has over 100 locations across the US, is famous for its luxe amenities including steam rooms, spas, eco-conscious products from Grown Alchemist, and even eucalpytus-infused towels. And yes, Equinox memberships are expensive - they can cost anywhere from $215 to $405 depending on the location and level of access - but for many, the group fitness offerings make the price tag worth it.

When it comes to workouts, I'm a big class person. I enjoy structure, and I like having a pro lead me through new workouts and challenges. I've tried all the popular workouts in New York City, from boutique fitness classes to franchise studios ranging from Pilates, HIIT, yoga, barre, and boxing. In the past few years, I've sampled all types of workouts on Classpass, and switched between memberships at F45 Training, 305 Fitness, and no-frills gyms.

But maintaining a diverse workout plan is important to me – I like both high-intensity and low-impact classes - so the variety of classes was what excited me most about joining Equinox. (The clubs offer 12 class categories.) When I recently became a member, I set out to discover the best group fitness classes at Equinox. I know how intimidating it can be to try out a new class, so I broke down my favorites across some of the most popular class categories, including cardio, strength, Pilates, yoga, and regeneration. Here are the best classes at Equinox and what to expect from the gym's group fitness classes.

Best Equinox Group Fitness Classes

Best Cardio Class at Equinox: Precision Run

Precision Run is a treadmill workout that's broken down into different intervals at varying speeds, inclines, and durations. You set up a starting speed on your treadmill based on your 1-minute PR (your fastest speed for one minute), so it's good to have an idea of what that is before your first class. I don't have much experience running, so I didn't know what mine was, but based on my running history, my instructor helped me choose a beginner-level PR and encouraged me to adjust throughout the class as needed. From there, they'll coach you through each interval and adjustment. Now, I'm not a runner - my preferred treadmill exercise is 12-3-30 - so I'm surprised Precision Run became one of my favorites. I really enjoyed the idea of a guided treadmill workout; I found time to pass much quicker and had more fun than if I had run on the treadmill by myself, which I normally wouldn't do.

Since I discovered Precision Running classes, I've also incorporated the on-demand classes into my workouts. The treadmills at Equinox are connected with the Precision Run dashboard, so you can take virtual, pre-recorded classes whenever, when you can't make a specific class time. There's also Precision Run Coaching, which just launched December 2024, in which members can train 1-1 with a coach if they have specific running goals in mind.

Best Strength Class at Equinox: Rhythmic Sculpt

I've never tried anything like Rhythmic Sculpt. The newer class at Equinox combines traditional strength training and aerobic cardio, moving to the beat of the music. The unique format makes the class fun, easy to follow, and predictable: Each class is broken up into three blocks that consist of sets with two movements and a combination of the moves. You'll typically use five to 15-pound weights throughout class, moving through low-impact, toning exercises like deadlifts, squat variations, and dumbbell curls. But there's also an intensity that comes from high repetitions and compound movements, so you'll definitely be sweating. If you're looking for a moderate-intensity workout with both cardio and strength training - with a little bit of choreography and coordination - I'd recommend giving Rhythmic Sculpt a try.

Best Yoga Class at Equinox: Sculpted Yoga

I expected Sculpted Yoga to be similar to the popular yoga sculpt classes I'd tried at CorePower Yoga, Y7 Studio, and Fuze House, but I was pleasantly surprised by the differences. Equinox's Sculpted Yoga includes a full power vinyasa flow that incorporates sculpting, toning exercises with light dumbbells and ankle weights. In terms of format, the class alternates between blocks of yoga and sculpt. It feels more like sculpting added onto yoga, whereas yoga sculpt at these other studios often prioritize cardio and strength training. It's certainly a challenging yoga class where you'll work up a sweat, but there won't be any cardio bursts or anything high intensity.

Best Pilates Class at Equinox: Pilates Rise

Equinox provides a few different Pilates classes, but my favorite is Pilates Rise, which is a contemporary take on classic Pilates. It feels like a more athletic version of a regular Pilates class, with light cardio and sculpting built onto Pilates movements - though it's still a low-impact workout. The class typically targets muscle groups from head to toe, including glutes, obliques, arms, and of course, the core. Expect your core to be fired up for most of the class. Pilates Rise is also available heated at certain clubs, which I really enjoy.

If you're new to Pilates, I'd start with Pilates Mat, which is slower paced and rooted in traditional, Joseph Pilates practices. Or, Pilates Fusion is a fun option for a more innovative Pilates workout that incorporates moves from yoga, barre, and sculpt.

Best Recovery Class at Equinox: Best Stretch Ever

I think the recovery classes at Equinox in general are super underrated - classes like Athletic Stretch, Best Stretch Ever, and Sonic Meditation, though offered less frequently, are great options for rest days. Best Stretch Ever uniquely utilizes a stick mobility, which is a training stick meant for deep stretching. I'd never used one prior to taking this class, but I found it to be a game-changer in terms of providing stability, increasing range of motion, and activating muscles. It's rare that I carve out dedicated time to stretch outside of a quick, end-of-class cool down, so having that 30 minutes or an hour is a treat and truly makes a difference in my recovery.

What to Know About Equinox's Group Fitness Classes

• Classes can be reserved on the EQX+ app 26 hours in advance, but you can add classes you're interested in to your calendar and the app will send you a notification once booking opens. I've found that popular classes like Pilates and barre book up almost immediately, so I highly recommend keeping your notifications on. If a class is full, you can add yourself to the waitlist or standby and snag a spot if someone doesn't show up.
• Equinox provides any equipment you need for a class, so you don't need to bring anything unless your prefer your own props. As an added luxury, Equinox staff do clean mats and props after classes, but of course, clean up after yourself if you leave a mess behind.
• Classes can be instructor dependent, so I recommend experimenting with classes taught by various instructors to find your preferred coaches. No one class is like the other with a different instructor, but classes will follow similar formats or target the same objectives.
• Arrive five to 10 minutes early to any new class you're taking. You'll want to chat with the instructor about any questions or modifications, find a spot with a good view of the instructor, and have ample time to set up any equipment you need.
• Despite Equinox's reputation as an "exclusive" gym, the group fitness classes do feel very welcoming. Don't be scared to try a new class!