Spanish slang for ‘move fast and have some fun', Zumba is yet to hit Australia with full force—but that hasn't stopped the rest of the world from getting jiggy with this blend of Latino-inspired fitness and dance movements. According to some reports, this workout, conceived by Columbian choreographer Beto Perez, is now taught in over 75 countries. Aussies, though, need be satisfied with bopping along to You Tube clips or buying an instructional DVD (for now!).
Pros: Zumba's format mixes hip-hop with pop, salsa, merengue, cha-cha, flamenco, tango and belly dance, so you're getting loads of variety and are sure to shave off a good whack of calories during this hour-long workout.
Cons: You need to be fairly coordinated to keep up with the rapidly changing styles, and if you're looking to build muscle strength, you're mixing with the wrong style.
If you're a regular gym-goer and your gym keeps up with the latest exercise equipment, you may have noticed what resembles a stationary bike for the arms lurking somewhere among the rowing machines, treadmills and steppers. Essentially kranking is a workout for the arms and the aim is to slip your hands into the ‘peddles' and spin like the wind. In the United States, there are already spin classes devoted to kranking- stay tuned for the same fitness wave to hit Aussie shores.
Pros: If you're desk bound, this is a great way to build strength in your upper body, while at the same time, getting a great cardio workout. It's also a good fitness alternative for the less mobile (such as pregnant women and older Australians) as you remain seated while working the machine.
Cons: It's tough! It's also not an all-in-one workout—meaning you'll need to combine it with another form of exercise to get a total-body workout.
Ever wanted to fly through the air with greatest of ease? Enter ‘circus arts', which can include trampolining and juggling, but for the most part is all about the flying trapeze. As you might imagine, this involves swinging eight metres above the ground and being caught mid-air. Students learn how to position and ‘hook' their legs around the bar to hang upside down from their legs – and fear not, safety harnesses keep you safe and secure while you master the art.
Pros: A slightly crazy (but fun) way to tone your upper body and core, while also working on your flexibility.
Cons: Risk of strain and injury — plus, we're pretty sure it looks easier than it really is!
High-energy workout helpers
If you're short on energy for demanding workouts, make sure you're getting your Bs. The B group of vitamins plays an essential role in the metabolic process, as well as the processing of carbs, proteins and fats to produce energy.
The pluses of getting fired up for fitness
Why get fit? Well, it'll:
We accept
