Four hybrid sports you may not have heard of yet

You’ve probably done Pilates. You may have even given boxing a go. But what about piloxing? It’s time to take your exercise routine to the next level.

Hybrid exercise is taking the nation by storm. But if you think it’s just a gimmick, you need to think again. According to Kate Allott, National Fitness Coordinator at Anytime Fitness, the benefits of mixing it up at the gym, go right to the core of who we are.

‘As human beings, we love variety,’ she says. ‘We don’t want to feel stagnant and we don’t want our fitness to plateau.’

The best way to keep things fresh is to keep our bodies guessing – and nothing does this better than combining multiple workouts in one.

Here’s a list of our favourite hybrid exercises to get you started.

What is it? Essentially, it’s pretty much what it says on the tin. Combining the calm, gentle flow of Vinyasa yoga, with the brash, heady sounds of hip hop, this hybrid workout turns an old favourite into something fresh and new.

What are the benefits? Yoga is renowned for helping people achieve a greater sense of calm and relaxation, as well as increasing flexibility and stamina. As for the hip hop element, it’s just a really fun way to turn your workout into a party. What could be better?

Is it for me? If you like hip hop and yoga, then yes, it probably is for you. Also, if you’re looking for an exercise plan that gets your heart pumping and your mind centred, then we really can’t think of anything better.

What is it? Orangetheory combines cutting-edge tech with even more cutting-edge fitness theory. Every participant is strapped to a heart monitor and is subjected to a series of rigorous routines combining weights, rowing and cardiovascular activity.

What are the benefits? The idea is to reach your all-important ‘orange zone’, i.e. above 84 per cent of your maximum heart rate for at least 12 to 24 minutes of the hour session. Why? Because pushing your body to that extreme maximises your post-workout oxygen consumption and burns calories faster.

Is it for me? Orangetheory isn’t for the faint-hearted. It requires commitment, perseverance and total stamina. It’s also good for the über competitive, as everyone in the class can see how you’re doing based on your heart monitor. If this sounds like you, then go for it.

What is it? Having arrived on our shores in 2014, piloxing has swept the nation to become one of our firm hybrid favourites. Combining the power and precision of boxing with the poise and flexibility of Pilates, this exercise promises to revolutionise your workout.

What are the benefits? Piloxing has three simple aims: burn calories, build strength and increase stamina. You’ll also get a nice burst of endorphins and if you do it as part of a balanced diet, you’ll probably notice some pretty nice changes to your shape.

Is it for me? If you’re looking to go hard, fast and aggressive, we definitely recommend giving piloxing a go. There are classes all over Australia, so you shouldn’t have any problems finding one near you.

What is it? Combining the latest body-mind science with ancient spiritual wisdom, Nia is a powerful blend of martial arts, dance and body-centered awareness. Basically, it’s about finding joy through movement and embracing the full potential of your form.

What are the benefits? Where do we start? Improved cardiovascular health, alleviation of stress and anxiety, hormonal stability – Nia offers it all and then some. Check out their site to get the lowdown on the science.

Is it for me? If you’re looking for a genuine alternative to the ‘no pain, no gain’ exercise mentality, then Nia could be a great place to start. The focus is on pleasure – not just after your workout but during, so if this sounds like your thing, why not book a class?

Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances 

Disclaimer:
The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional, tax or other advice. It does not take into account any individual’s personal situation or needs. You should consider obtaining professional advice from a financial adviser and/or tax specialist, or medical or health practitioner, in relation to your own circumstances and before acting on this information.