In gyms around the nation, exercise buffs are picking up some new equipment in addition to their exercise balls and dumbbells. Drumsticks are the latest gear being used in exercise classes that are melding conditioning moves and cardio in an entertaining way.
In Crunch New York, one of these drumming fitness classes, Pound, is offered and taught by Marc Santa Maria. Pound, which was created by former Californian drummers, Kirsten Potenza and Cristina Peerenboom, burns approximately 600 to 900 calories per hour.
“You’re using the sticks as a mechanism to keep moving, and there’s constant movement,” said Santa Maria to the Huffington Post. “Your core has to be used for all the basic movements.”
Another one of these classes is Drums Alive. Drums Alive blends aerobic dance while using drumsticks. Created by Carrie Ekins, Drums Alive is a gentler workout that is suited for all ages, including children and the elderly. The workout is flexible and allows for those with disabilities to participate too. Drums Alive is offered all over the world in countries such as Israel and Canada, among others.
For those who cannot find a gym offering a drumming fitness class, do not despair. Pound has online classes and is working on an at-home workout DVD. Drums Alive offers a variety of at-home workout DVDs which can be purchased on their website. Those interested can visit www.poundfit.com and www.drums-alive.com.
By Maggie Rivers for Tom Tom Magazine