January blues creeping in? It’s time to blast them away by embracing something entirely different for 2026. We’re talking about the emerging fitness trends that promise to bring together movement and joy in a whole load of unexpected ways. Because who said exercise had to be boring?
Forget ‘new year, new you’, or spending your day dreading your evening class. Our round-up of the wildest and wackiest fitness classes in Manchester provides movement to look forward to – and that you can make a long-lasting habit. So, why not try something new, get a hit of endorphins and boost your happiness?
But before you give the classes on our hit-list a go, don’t forget about your post-workout snack – which, some might argue, is the best part of the whole thing anyway. FULFIL vitamin and protein bars are perfect for throwing in your bag. They're high in protein (13g-21g per bar) to help with muscle recovery, are low in sugar and enriched with a blend of nine added vitamins. Your go-to companion in supporting a fun and active lifestyle.
2026 is the year we channel our inner Jennifer Lopez in Hustlers. From burlesque to aerial, Bodybarre Manchester offers it all under one roof in the Northern Quarter, but it’s the pole-dancing classes that have piqued our interest. Created by the World Europe UK Pole Champ, the classes bring together dance, strength-training, flexibility, stretching and cardiovascular fitness, as well as a whole lot of artistic flair. Go on – strike a pose.
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Growing up, were you the kid who knew all the choreography for every new pop song from Britney to Destiny’s Child to Xtina? Bonnie Parsons, dancer-turned-entrepreneur, has the class for you. She’s the founder of SOS Dance – a feel-good experience that empowers women to unlock confidence and build strength through movement. What started as a single class in London has now evolved into a nationwide community with sessions in Manchester and beyond. Choose between Commercial, which combines pop with choreography, or Heels, where you can slip into a pair of killer shoes to hone balance and posture.
Book here
Infrared technology is all the rage in the world of health and fitness, from saunas to devices, and is used for a load of benefits – improved circulation, reduced inflammation, stress relief and better sleep included. Good news, then, that The Health Lab in the Northern Quarter offers Manchester’s only infrared mat pilates class. Running for 50 minutes, it promises better flexibility, muscle recovery and sheer relaxation, using your body weight as the ultimate weapon.
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Puppies and yoga – what’s not to love? At Paw Yoga in the centre of the city, you’re promised an hour of “complete happiness and relaxation” with classes broken down into 15 minutes of puppy time, half-an-hour of gentle yoga and another 15 minutes of cuddles. The studio collaborates with only trusted, ethical breeders – fun fact: play time like this is a crucial part of a puppy’s early development – while both yoga and four-legged friends are proven to reduce stress and bolster wellbeing for us hoomans. A win-win-win.
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We’re all just big kids, really, so lean into your inner child with a day at an inflatable fitness playground (yes, really). Inflata Nation in Manchester has been given a makeover so it’s even bigger and better than before with features like the Blue Lagoon – an epic ball pit encircling the epic Ballcano – Obstaball Course and Double Tipping Slide (standing tallest amongst all the other inflatables). Just you try and tell us it’s not a workout once you’ve been.
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Forget the hustle. It’s all about lindy hop, a style of dance originating from the African-American communities of Harlem, NYC, at Swing North. Hosted by the volunteer-run swing dance company, classes take place every Tuesday in the centre of Manchester, where you’ll learn the lively mix of jazz, tap, swing and Charleston that make this style so unique and joyous.
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Discover more about FULFIL, the snack of choice to support a fun and active lifestyle
Participation in any class is at the reader’s own risk.