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Fitness fanatics from across the island are springing into action with Kangoo Jumps Bahrain to get into shape for a healthier New Year.
Kangoo Jumps, a rebounding exercise, was first launched in November by 25-year-old Alina Comanici, a true believer in the sport and trampoline-like boots.
The energetic Romanian and her team of ‘kangaroos’ had bounced their way into the hearts of many while promoting the latest craze at different events such as the recent Boat Show.
She said: “NASA (National Aeronautic Space Agency) said that rebounding exercise is the most efficient and effective form of exercise yet devised by man, but for me…it is more than that.
“Kangoo Jumps is part of my life and soul. It is both addictive as well as contagious and once you have joined a session you will definitely be back!
“I took one class back home in Romania a year ago. The following day I ordered my own boots and I have been in love with it ever since.
“I love Bahrain too, so it made sense to combine the two. The people here deserve the newest and most enjoyable way of exercising.
“The bouncy boots are meant to develop all your muscles, shape your body naturally, reduce excess fat rapidly and safely as well as prevent cardiovascular problems and slow the ageing process.”
The spring-loaded footwear was originally developed in the 20th century in Eastern Europe as a recreational device for athletes recovering from leg injuries. It reduces the impact of stress on joggers’ joints, ankles, knees, hips, lower back and spine.
This concept was later redesigned in the 1980s in Canada by Swiss engineer Denis Naville who focused on improving the boots’ comfort, design and performance.
According to studies, the patented Impact Protection System (IPS) boots reduces impact to the ground by up to 80 per cent.
It is also used for weight loss, reducing body fat, firming as well as strengthening muscles and providing an aerobic workout for the heart.
According to Comanici you can lose around 600 calories in less than 60 minutes.
She explained: “With regular use of Kangoo Jumps, our base metabolic rate will become more efficient, resulting in noticeable improvements in our muscle tone and weight management.
“People who rebound find they are able to work longer, sleep better and feel less tense and nervous.”
Comanici’s classes offer the young and old a number of Kangoo styles from Kangoo Kick and Power to Kangoo Latino and Discovery.
She said: “I concentrate on every single muscle and always tell my ‘kangaroos’ to do the correct and complete moves for a guaranteed results.
“The sessions will vary in the future, once my team is familiar with the basic moves. I am also planning on organising outings around Bahrain in our boots.”
Comanici’s aide, Samar Al Meer, 20, a student at the University of Bahrain, has been with Kangoo Jumps since the launch. She said: “I love Kangoo because it doesn’t just help you lose weight but is also fun. You also get to meet new people.”
Classes are held at The K Hotel in Juffair on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm for ladies and a mixed session from 7pm to 8pm. There is also a mixed class from 4pm to 5pm and a ladies course from 6pm to 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
It is BD6 per class and the boots can be rented for BD1.500.
