Many thanks to Misha Patel Studios for this inspiring & educational post… makes you want to get on out there and see the world, try new things….dance. So looking forward to having Misha join us in Puglia to teach Pilates & Boot Camp, but until then, these activities will surely keep us fit while having a lot of fun!
When it comes to traveling, the idea of Escaping may predominantly be to “get away,” but itʼs the “take aways” from your treks that can transform you. Of course, nothing feels better than occasionally distancing yourself from the routine, in both miles and the mind. But what keeps us going back for more is delving into a new culture and being inspired by new sights, suppers, and philosophies on life
Maybe upon your return from Italy you begin to make your own gnocchi; post-Ecuadorian excursion, you take a class on South American anthropology; or you simply start sporting a new pair of Turkish boots when back home from Istanbul. Whatever it may be, youʼve been motivated to further enrich yourself, to keep the explorer mindset after the Escape.
Whether youʼve traveled to these locales or not, here are some foreign fitness routines you can incorporate into your regimen.
Top 5 workout trends from around the world
Capoeira (Brazil): Capoeira was developed by African slaves in Brazil during the 16th century. This activity combines martial arts with rhythm and dance, as slaves practiced this combat technique under the guise of dancing.
Since the 1970s many mestres, or masters, have moved overseas to teach abroad. In a Capoeira class, you will go through a long warm-up, practicing the “ginga,” or base of combat, which is a lunge that travels back and forth. This movement will help you achieve the famed Brazilian backside.
In the second portion of class, everyone joins a “roda,” or circle, where participants “play fight” in the center. Usually, a portion of class will be devoted to learning the musical instruments, such as the berimbau, drums, and singing in Portuguese.
Bhangra Dance (India): What hip-hop is to America, bhangra is to India. This drum-based and rhythmic dance comes from the Punjabi region, which is primarily farmlands. A bhangra dance class will have a high-to-low cardio impact, and the heart rate is increased by multiple arm motions that raise them above the heart.
Much like hip-hop, bhangra movement is driven from the hips and feet, the form of dance most used on the floor at nightclubs. Though you can “freestyle” bhangra, the form also has the ability to be crafted into detailed choreography for performances, or in a cardio-dance bhangra class.
Muay Thai (Thailand): Muay Thai is a form of kickboxing from Thailand, and is referred to as the “Art of 8 Limbs,” because kicks, punches, and strikes also come from the elbows and knees, in addition to the hands and feet. To prepare for matches in the ring, Muay Thai boxers practice jump-roping, body weight resistance exercise, abdominal training, weight-training, running, and shadow boxing. Even if you canʼt find a place to practice Thai fighting, you can always channel your inner warrior and try some of their strength and conditioning workouts or taking a kickboxing class.
Tango (Argentina): The tango was originally danced by two women, but when the form spread to Argentina in the late 1800s, it became a sensual dance performed by couples. Tango has since evolved into several forms like modern or “nuevo” ballroom and Finnish.
Whether youʼre looking to go out dancing with a friend or find a new hobby for you and the hubby, tango dance has many health benefits. In fact, studies show tango is more beneficial for those with Parkinsonʼs disease than standard exercise as it incorporates dynamic balance, moving at different speeds, turns, and knowing when to begin movement to a beat.
Walking Backwards (China): Likely the least conventional exercise you may ever try, but the easiest to add to your routine: walking backwards. Many travelers in China are intrigued when they see people walking backwards in the park. Though the movement may seem unnatural, it helps to build postural strength and works different muscles in the legs. Chinese rumor has it that walking backwards can even stave off senile dementia and turn your karma around.
Whether you learn something new abroad or in the comfort of your own community, opening your mind and stepping out of usual habits will enhance your life. Wellness isnʼt just about a fitness routine or eating right; feed your curiosity, foster your creativity, and find a new fulfillment.
Sweet (and maybe sweaty) travels, Escape To Shapers!
MPS
by: Jamie Spiegel
