Underwater Spinning Provides Ultimate Exercise
HydroRide made its first appearance in April 2001 at New York’s Crunch Fitness. This aqueous version of *Spinning incorporates the use of water and a stainless steel hydrobike to create an intense form of exercise that conditions the body from head to toe.
HydroRide is highly effective for a number of reasons. The use of underwater exercise machines allows the muscles to be exercised in all directions. The natural buoyancy of water supports the body while moving the arms and legs is equivalent to exercising with weights. This can be attributed to the fact that water resistance is 12 times greater than air resistance. The end result? The muscles involved receive a more comprehensive workout and are not isolated as with typical dry land exercise routines. Also, there’s no forward impact on the joints. This is a plus for those with sensitive joints and injured athletes as well. The use of freestanding underwater fitness equipment allows them to continue working out through injuries.
Underwater exercise has mental benefits as well. According to researchers in Japan, underwater exercise has a positive effect on relaxation. It also appears to increase positive mood and vigor.
So here’s the skinny on the HydroRide routine.
HydroRide is being described as a unique cardio class that focuses on the entire experience, from top to bottom. The ride consists of a 15-minute warm-up of low intensity cycling and arm movements designed to get the heart rate up and increase circulation. During the remaining 30 minutes, riders slowly increase resistance and engage in more aggressive moves like sprints and jumps. In addition, webbed gloves and water weights are used with arm movements to work the biceps, triceps, shoulders, and forearms. The lower back and abs get a challenging workout as well due to water resistance.
Slow cycling and stretching moves help to cool down and release tension in the joints. Crunch Fitness Center estimates HydroRiders burn an average of 600 calories per hour, but everyone’s metabolism is different. Keep in mind that even if you don’t burn a lot of calories during class, exercise helps increase metabolism, muscle mass, bone density and release endorphins.
Hydrobikes cost around $800 each. No word yet on when they’ll become available to the public. Until then, log onto www.crunch.com to find out where you may be able to try HyrdoRide!
(*Spinning is an indoor cycling routine created back in 1987 by cycling enthusiast, Johnny G. Spinning is a registered trademark of Madd Dogg Athletics, Inc., Venice, California.** )
