Yogalaties. Gyrotonics. Piloxing. They may be hard to pronounce, but fusion workouts – which combine moves from two or more disciplines, such as yoga and Pilates – yogalaties – or water aerobics and tai chi – ai chi – are increasingly popular.
“People love fusion fitness because it’s challenging and novel,” says Jessica Matthews, certification director for the American Council on Exercise, or ACE, in San Diego and a fitness trainer who has trained people with arthritis.
But is it safe and worth your time? Here are the pros, cons and caveats to keep in mind before trying a hybrid workout.
The pros
Fusion workouts can introduce you to other forms of exercise. Plus, “if you enjoy a particular type of exercise but are bored with your current routine, it’s a great way to break through the monotony,” says Matthews.
Fusion fitness also provides an opportunity to cross-train. “You’ll typically use more muscle groups than you would with a single discipline, and that can reduce your risk of injury while boosting your overall fitness levels.”
The cons
Carefully monitor your pain during a fitness fusion class, says Sherry Brourman, a physical therapist and yoga instructor at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, who regularly works with people who have arthritis. “The moves may feel different than what you’re used to, but don’t confuse ‘different’ with ‘painful,’” she adds.
Observe a class before you sign up, says Matthews. “If your arthritis is severe or you’re having a flare, avoid workouts that involve high-impact moves, such as step aerobics or boxing.”
i feel some pain(the next day) if i do a more strenuous aerobic exercise but it's not excruciating pain ,should i continue?
zumba? lots of fun and again , a little pain the next day but not anything i couldn't live with - ok to continue?
what about lunges which are done so much in ex.classes - there's a lot of stress on feet with these lunges - ok to continue?
what type of doctor should i see for these and related questions?
thank you ! joan barry
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