Jazzercise News Releases
New Exercise Options Bringing (Con)fusion Into the
Mix?
Simple Tips for Picking a Fusion Fitness Program
CARLSBAD, Calif. (August 10, 2004) – With stationary bikes in the
pool, martial arts mixed with ballet, and choreographed weightlifting classes,
the range of new fusion fitness options is enough to weigh down even the
most eager exerciser. But the quirky new formats can actually offer some
of the most effective workouts available, according to Judi Sheppard Missett,
Jazzercise founder and CEO.
Missett, who became one of the first pioneers of the fusion trend more than
35 years ago when she combined aerobics and dance with elements of Pilates,
yoga and strength training, says a carefully selected fusion program not
only helps to fight chronic routine busters like boredom and waning motivation,
but also frequently offers a one-stop, total-body workout that stays on the
cutting edge of fitness. The trick is in wading through the overabundance
of class options to find the appropriate match.
To eliminate confusion from fusion, Missett offers a few practical guidelines
for picking a format that is safe, effective and lasting.
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Find the Right Mix
A fusion class title or description
may sound like a lot of fun, but when it comes to regular participation,
it may be a different story. As with any fitness program, it’s essential
to know what you’re
getting into before ever stepping foot in the class.
The best fusion classes
blend complementary exercise formats that enhance the overall workout,
so it’s important to ensure the combination
of exercises makes good sense. Is the serenity of a yoga or ballet
workout negated by adding a boot camp element? Does biking underwater
have application in your everyday life? Take some time before the first
class to learn about the individual elements and, most importantly, how
they work together to create an effective exercise plan. Some fusion
classes, like Jazzercise, even offer class descriptions and a sample
of movements online, making it simple to understand the key components
of the routines before making a long-term commitment to the program.
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Sport Your Matchmaker Hat
Don’t let novel fitness
combinations tempt you to overlook your personal workout style. While
gimmicks such as costumed instructors and karaoke can be great for getting
you to the first few classes, long-term success will require a program
that also closely matches your natural abilities and interests in addition
to being fun.
If strength is your forte but you’ve hit a plateau, a class that
combines martial arts and boxing might be just up your alley. If you’re
extremely coordinated, but aerobics is getting stale, a funky, new
fusion dance class may be just what you need to get back on track and
find renewed resolve. Look for a program that will both challenge and
enhance your raw talents.
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Play the Name Game
The popularity of fusion has attracted
a wide range of gyms and trainers eager to jump on the latest trend,
but those trainers may not have the necessary training to safely teach
every fusion element. It’s important
to look for a class that is led by certified fitness trainers at a reputable
facility.
Don’t be afraid to shop around. A number of nationally known programs
and facilities are now offering fusion classes with qualified instructors
you can trust. Look for a program that offers fusion classes from certified
instructors who have undergone the training necessary to ensure you
execute the workout both safely and effectively.
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Is it Fused or a Ruse?
Don’t be fooled by clever marketing that only adds a new mix
of music or themed choreography and calls it “fusion” fitness.
Though themes and fun music are important motivational tools, they should
not be confused with true fusion formats that combine a number of exercise
principles to offer a more complete workout. To truly reap the benefits
of a fusion workout, ensure the program blends a number of proven exercises
and philosophies and makes the most of your routine.
“In my 35 years of teaching Jazzercise, I’ve seen millions
of people really enjoying the fusion elements,” Missett says, “including
some participants who have been with the program for more than two
decades. Overall, fusion fitness classes are a great way to get in
shape, but ultimately, the most important thing is to find an exercise
routine that you like, that gives you results, and then stick with
it.”
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Jazzercise, created by Judi Sheppard Missett, is the
world's leading dance-fitness program with more than 6,800 instructors teaching
30,000 classes weekly in the U.S. and around the globe. Since 1969, millions
of people of all ages and fitness levels have reaped the benefits of this comprehensive
program, designed to enhance cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility.
For more information, go to jazzercise.com or
call (800)FIT-IS-IT.
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