Weightlifting at Novo Body Fitness in Encino

Confession: I’m a former cardio junkie who used to only focus on spinning classes, cardio kickboxing, stair climber machines & treadmills. It’s not that those fitness classes or exercise machines are inherently bad, it’s just that I needed to add some strength-training to my exercise regimen. I used to think (many years ago) that I should not lift weights that are heavier than 5 pounds, for fear that I would “bulk up.” Now I know better!

When I think of weight lifting, I tend to think of it as a solo activity. However while taking a group fitness class at Novo Body Fitness that focused on strength training, I realized that lifting weights can be a fun in group fitness setting.

As I walked into the exercise studio, I noticed the equipment is well stocked & contains thoughtfully appointed features. Each person has their own incline benches, weight racks, & barbells. Curl bars & floor mats are available on the side of the room. There is enough equipment & space in the studio to hold about 20 people comfortably.

The class that I attended was a 60-minute full body sculpt class that had some High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) exercises thrown in. Miguel Novo, owner of Novo Body Fitness, taught the class & is so engaging that even when I felt like quitting an exercise set, he motivated me to power through! Throughout the workout, Miguel walks around the room checking on his clients form & technique, while also giving personal encouragement along the way. That is something that I truly appreciate because when you are in a weight-lifting room at a traditional gym, no one is spot checking you throughout your workout unless you are paying a personal trainer. I enjoy group exercise workouts, so this setting is truly a great fit (pun intended)!!

After my class, I spoke to Miguel briefly & asked him a few questions. He has been an active body builder for 14 years & has done personal training for the last 4 years. As the owner of Novo Body Fitness, he believes that weightlifting is key to burning fat, building endurance, increasing strength & sculpting lean body muscle. Each class at Novo Body Fitness contains a blend of weight lifting, cardio and core work. The classes are taught by Miguel or by trainers who have been specifically trained to teach this unique workout.

Overall I really enjoyed working out at Novo Body Fitness. I love working out in a group setting, yet still getting personal attention by trainers who can teach you proper form on lifting weights. The studio is really nice, bright & has a great layout.

The lobby area has a small seating area, with fitness apparel & other exercise merchandise for sale. The back area of the group workout room has lockers so that you can stash your gym bag or purse.

Novo Body Fitness is located in an Encino shopping center that offers complimentary underground valet parking. Don’t forget to get your ticket validated at the front desk!

Did you know that your first class at Novo Body Fitness is free? I enjoyed my first class so much that I’m hoping to take in a few more classes this summer. If you’re looking to add some strength-training into your exercise routine & want personal help in sculpting your body this summer, then I encourage you to try a Novo Body workout.

For more info on Novo Body Fitness, check out their website & don’t forget to follow them on Facebook to get their latest updates. Happy Lifting!

Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received for this post. I attended a complimentary class which helped facilitate this review. All images are mine unless otherwise noted. As always, my opinions are 100% my own.