WORK IT
Hanging out with the acrobats
September 25, 2009
Paola Loriggio
SPECIAL TO THE STAR
A turn on the trapeze or the trampoline will work muscles you never knew you had.
Circus arts – a combination of physical theatre and acrobatics – give performers a full-body workout, says Decker LaDouceur, director of operations for the Toronto School of Circus Arts in Downsview.
What's more, you don't need to be double-jointed to do it. "It may take some people longer, but it's attainable for everyone." Though not as mainstream as, say, step aerobics, circus arts draw a steady crowd of exercisers looking to bust out of the gym.
Each activity works the core, legs and upper body to varying degrees, LaDouceur says. Floor acrobatics focus on the legs, while aerials, such as the flying trapeze, develop more arm strength.
But don't give up that step class – contortions won't build cardiovascular endurance, he warns.
The school also runs a general conditioning class that combines exercises on the floor, bar and stability ball to get students in circus shape.
Stability ball plank:
1. Kneel in front of a stability ball. Bend your elbows 90 degrees, then place your forearms on the ball.
2. Step your legs back until you're in a plank position, with your upper body balanced on the ball.
3. Focus on form: your elbows should be directly beneath your shoulders, and your body should be in a straight line. Make sure your hips aren't sinking. For a challenge, try lifting one foot off the ground without shifting or losing your alignment.
4. Hold for 30-60 seconds. Do three sets.
Toronto Star
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