HEALTH
THE FIT FILES WHAT IS IT, EXACTLY?
Water workouts
Move over, water aerobics. Fitness classes in the pool have had a facelift, promising more variety. Virgin Active’s 60-minute Hydro class mixes sprint lengths with endurance laps, while the Amateur Swimming Association’s Swimfit offers circuit-style sessions. WHY DO IT? Half an hour of swimming is as effective as an hour of land-based exercise, says Speedo, plus activity in the water is easier on your joints. The new classes also increase your fitness while building up strength. WHERE CAN I TRY IT? Find a Swimfit class at swimming.org/poolfinder, or a Hydro class at virginactive.co.uk.
We round up the latest exercise trends and tips
MOVE OF THE
month
To get a strong core, revisit the humble hula hoop (and not just because Michelle Obama and Liv Tyler are fans). ‘As well as burning calories, it’s great for toning abs and improving core strength,’ says fitness coach Peter Cobby. Try a weighted hoop for easier spinning and better results. Or check out Powerhoop classes nationwide (from £5; powerhoop.co.uk).
Learn the
WORDS AVIVA ATTIAS PHOTOS GETTY
th
These three trends could transform the way you work out…
1
Go online
Internet workouts aren’t new, but they’ve come a long way, and now include live streaming of classes – so you feel as if you’re there. Prices are often a fraction of gym membership fees. Try gymcube.com or hoolio.com.
2
Breathe better Slowing and deepening your breathing has long been recommended as a way to help reduce anxiety. Now breathwork classes are on the up in the UK, while the latest fitness trackers, such as Fitbit Charge 2, offer guided breathing sessions.
3
27,000
That’s how many people play squash each week in England alone. A social sport that can zap up to 1,000 calories an hour, it’s easy to see why it’s surging in popularity. For a fun taster session, try a Squash 101 class (englandsquash.com), or visit scottishsquash.org, squashwales.co.uk or ulstersquash.com to find out more.
WATCH is space
Slow it down
Walking football, aimed at older adults, now has more than 800 clubs in the UK and the backing of footy legends such as Alan Shearer. It’s open to men and women and involves plenty of skill. Visit walkingfootballunited.co.uk.
lingo
FITNESS TERMS DEFINED AND EXPLORED
Compound exercises: Moves that use more than one joint or muscle group at the same time, giving you more fitness benefits in less time. Good examples include squats, lunges and calf raises. They can be done with or without free weights, such as dumbbells.
105
