Beginner’s Workout Series: Animal Flow

“Mimicking the movement patterns of the animals is the basis of Animal Flow. It is basically a workout that emphasises on full-body coordination, the strength of your core and the flexibility of your body.” added Chong. 

While animal movements have been mimicked for thousands of years, this workout was created by fusing elements of multiple bodyweight training disciplines with the purpose to increase mobility, stability, power, endurance, skill and neuromuscular development. One can try this unique workout exclusively at Fitness First.

A routine inspired by animal movements is unique in itself but how does it really differ from the other forms of exercise? Chong describes it as “an exercise that is surprisingly challenging even without the use of any form of equipment.”

Animal Flow for beginners follows an ABC routine, which stands for 3 distinct movements called Ape, Beast and Crab. Each of these exercises follow the rhythmic movements of their respective animal. The amazing thing is that you can easily flow from A to B to C.

This workout helps open up the smaller muscle groups in your body by engaging muscles that you didn't even know existed. One of the most important aspects of the Animal Flow program is that it can be altered to achieve specific results. It is also a perfect dynamic warm up routine as it can increase core temperature, improve joint mobility, loosen tight muscles, elevate the heart rate and mentally prepare you for the upcoming workout. 

“The best part of this workout was the energetic vibe and the feeling of community that you experience during the class,” says Chong. The movements of the workouts have different variations and complexities to it. So, what you ultimately get is a class of members working out at their maximum capacity regardless of their current fitness level, which is great!

The most challenging part of the session as with most first timers like Chong would be the coordination of the body. “It definitely takes time to get it right,” Chong explains. 

Speaking on the benefits, Chong describes Animal Flow as a workout that “allows you to use all your muscles in a way that you exercise from head to toe, which can burn major calories.”

 Animal Flow actively stretches and develops your muscles through motion that encourages greater flexibility while strengthening the shoulder joint, shoulder girdle, spine, and hips, as well as the wrist, elbows and ankles, which can be great for those who suffer from joint pains and stiffness.

Moving through some of the animal flows also helps to increase your mental awareness and most importantly your mind-body connection. When you go into more advanced phases, it becomes an intense cardio workout.

Chong shares that Animal Flow is for “anyone!” as he explains: “This workout has many variations and difficulty levels that can cater to every individual’s fitness ability. Like any new workout routine, it comes with a different learning curve. So, anyone thinking of trying out something new, can start with Animal Flow.”

Ultimately, Animal Flow is yours to perform how you wish. The important thing to remember is to treat it like a discipline, where the more you practice the more fit and flexible you become. Challenging, fun and unique, this workout will surely produce great results.