Point, flex, plie and releve . . . looking for something to add some grace to your fitness routine? You may want to experience a Sole Synthesis class.
What Is It?
Sole Synthesis is a workout that combines fitness exercises with ballet and yoga postures. This hour-long workout flows from a basic fitness exercise -- such as a squat -- to a dance-inspired combination of movements that will increase your heart rate, to yoga-like postures such as warrior. Then the sequence of fitness, dance and yoga moves is repeated, beginning with new foundation exercises such as lunges, progressing into a dance cardio and strength sequence of movement. The class runs through three to four exercise series. This is a barefoot workout . . . so you will get the added benefit of training in bare feet, strengthening your feet and lower legs.
Who Would Like It?
If you love to dance, you will like this workout. However, this workout is not just for dancers. It would appeal to anyone who secretly wants to be a dancer, as you do not need any previous experience to enjoy its power and grace. As this workout is built from the foundation of fitness exercises, everyone can master the ballet movements and feel like a dancer. Swan Lake, here I come!
Who Wouldn't Like It?
Men, you may need to put your macho image aside and be brave enough to try this workout. This fitness program is not for women only. More and more athletes are doing ballet to improve performance in sport. If football linebackers can do ballet, you may benefit from a little precision in movement as well. The muscular control, balance and dynamic flexibility work that is at the foundation of dance is good for all of us.
The Sweat Factor
When barefoot training meets strength, cardio and flexibility in one workout, fitness takes on a whole new meaning. This workout is not easy. The strength, balance, flexibility and co-ordination challenge can be fairly intense once you learn the routine. My gluteus muscles were screaming at me in class and I could feel them for days after the workout. As the saying goes, "I worked my butt off in class." Who couldn't benefit from training these muscles!
The Klutz Factor
At first you may feel like an elephant in ballet class; however the Sole Synthesis workout is easy to learn. No fancy moves here: the idea is to simply use a fitness movement you have done for ages and transform it three different ways. Through repetition you will begin to master the moves.
What I found most helpful was how the instructor teaches one move at a slower pace and then increases tempo once you learn the skill.
From the base movement, you will add arm variations and balance skills, which will up the co-ordination-- but you can stay with the simplest version of the exercise if you like.
Gear Needed
No equipment or dance attire is needed in this workout: just show up with an attitude of "You think you can dance!"
Where Do I Buy It And How Much Does It Cost?
Instructors are trained specifically to teach the Sole Synthesis class and can be found at a variety of clubs. In Calgary, you can find the classes taught by master trainers and instructors Susan Simpson and Cathy Morrison at the Calgary JCC, Glencoe Club and Heavens Fitness. Contact Lisa Kingston at info@fusion-fitness-training.comto find an instructor in your neighbourhood. You can also purchase a Sole Synthesis DVD to work out at home. The DVD costs $25 plus GST and shipping.
Bottom Line
This workout will leave you strong, centred and actively flexible from the ground up.