Cheeky branding at Pop Physique in Mount Vernon.
BABY GOT BACK. Whether you’re rocking a flat fanny or carrying a little extra junk in the trunk, Pop Physique is our new favorite destination for taming an uncooperative derriere. Lovingly referred to as “Butt School” by devotees, the signature Pop Sculpt routine is an exhaustive 60 minutes of barre work, Pilates and light weights choreographed to indie and electronic tunes. More than half the workout focuses on the abs, thighs and glutes—and every class is different, so your brain (and bum) can’t predict what torture is coming next. “I think there’s a little ballerina in most women,” says owner Kim Quinn, whose daughter-in-law (a professional ballet dancer) developed the method in Los Angeles. “So even though the classes are tough, working out at the barre feels playful and inspirational.” Single class, $20. New member special, $100 for 30 days of unlimited classes. 339 N. Charles St., 410-468-0767, http://www.popphysique.com
POOL SHARK. Being stable is overrated—at least when it comes to core workouts. So shake up your yoga and Pilates practice with Floyo, an aqua fusion class taught in the schmancy saltwater pools at MAC Harbor East. In lieu of mats, students perform exercises atop a 10-foot stand-up paddleboard (or SUP), which makes every move more powerful—and more precarious. “Of course, that’s part of the fun,” says instructor Jessie Benson of Ultimate Watersports, which partners with MAC on the program. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8 p.m. Four-week sessions offered year-round. $140-$160. 655 S. President St., 410-625-5000, http://www.macwellness.com, http://www.ultimatewatersports.com
GARDEN VARIETY. Breathe a little Zen into your workweek with Yoga in the Sculpture Garden, 90 minutes of movement and meditation en plein air at the Baltimore Museum of Art. “Museums are the perfect place for yoga, because they evoke concentration and contemplation,” says instructor Brianna Bedigian, owner of Quiet Winds in Mount Vernon, who also happens to have a bachelor’s degree in art history. Bedigian partnered with BMA curators to create the program which centers on a different masterwork each week. Participants range from age 20 to 70 and all levels are welcome. Thursdays at 6 p.m. Four-week session starts June 6. $75-$90. 10 Art Museum Drive, 443-573-1832, http://www.artbma.org
