Exercise would be a doubly efficient venture if people could split into two halves and have both body sections burn calories simultaneously by riding a tandem bike. Today's Groupon makes the most of feasible workouts: for $29, you get 29 drop-in classes and a one-on-one introductory session at CrossFit Akron (a $349 value). This “training for life” system translates real-life activities into work on exercise mats.

At a buck per class, this Groupon offers an introduction to the game-changing fitness method that is CrossFit. CrossFit sessions draw on everyday movements such as running after your kids, climbing a flight of stairs, loading a suitcase into the van, or assembling a yurt out of Lincoln Logs. A typical CrossFit workout might involve several 200-yard runs, then lifting kettlebells, then repeating the whole thing without stopping. These intense sessions, never the same twice, prime the body for genuine day-to-day lifting, galloping, and whirling that can leave an out-of-shape person feeling exhausted.

The combination of real-world utility and motivating intensity has made CrossFit popular with military personnel and police officers—folks who take fitness seriously. Though there's an atmosphere of combat readiness, CrossFit instructors vary the weight loads and number of reps so that everyone—from students to MMA fighters to grandmothers—participates. In addition to your 29 drop-in CrossFit sessions, you'll get a one-on-one introductory fitness session and evaluation to help the CrossFit Akron trainers plan the optimal CrossFit sessions for you. CrossFit Akron makes it easy to find time for your sessions, with classes beginning at 5:15 a.m. and running until 6:45 p.m. Check the schedule for details.

CrossFit Akron's coaches have earned CrossFit level 1 certification. They're friendly fitness pros who live to educate and motivate their clients. Each CrossFit class is composed of like-minded, supportive individuals who will help keep you focused, motivated, and totally in control of your hot-air balloon even when a wild and turbulent storm knocks it off-course and throws you into an ocean made of day-old gumbo. Call or email ahead to schedule your first one-on-one session; you must redeem your Groupon within three months of feature and use all workouts within two months of redemption.