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Studio equipment – fitness-kit: Best in class
The group exercise studio is a space that attracts constant innovation. We take a look at some of the latest studio product launches
Stepping up
Escape Fitness and Zumba have teamed up to deliver dance fitness programming using the new Escape Step platform.
Zumba Step offers a balance of traditional fitness, dance and step aerobics moves, encouraging users to intensify the energy levels of their workout and lift their body weight against the force of gravity, while keeping the moves easy to follow.
Users can vary the height and angle of the Step platform for a more advanced workout and for enhanced results including muscle strengthening – specifically the lower body – while also aiding balance and co-ordination.
The platform features welded-on surfaces and non-slip feet. The anatomical hot-spot targets on the Step platform enable creative and effective programming, so all members can follow choreography.
fitness-kit.net keyword: escape
Rotational fitness
FlexDRT is a new suspension training concept from the US that provides for dynamic rotational movements. It’s designed for fluid, controlled functional movements and effective use of the core.
Frank Giordano of FlexDRT says: “The FlexDRT creates instability, which provokes greater biomechanical muscular chain function and awareness. It permits maximum fluid, controlled torsion and introduces you to the duality of maximum uni-lever performance.”
A team of qualified fitness professionals has been trained in the Flexmaster programme to bring the concept to market; it’s also offered online, direct to end users, at a retail price of US$179.00. European distributors are currently being considered.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Flexdrt
Artistic impression
Yoga Design Lab has launched its newest collection of yoga mats – ultra-colourful mats that have been described by Vogue and Refinery29 as ‘show-stopping’ and ‘stunning works of art’, and that have a growing US celebrity following.
The eco-friendly yoga mats are created from natural materials, which are then bonded to a luxurious microfibre top layer that’s designed to provide extra grip when sweaty – ideal for a hot yoga class.
The products are designed in Bali by Canadian surfer/yogi Chad Turner, who aims to inspire people with his visually stunning, fashionable, eco-friendly yoga products.
“Each print in the new collection is systematically aligned to assist yoga practitioners to easily track their alignment and positioning during all poses,” says Turner.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Yoga Design
Hang tight
TRX has launched a brand new, updated version of its flagship product: the suspension trainer.
The C4 edition comes with adjustable foot cradles with an intuitive hook and loop fastener strap and safety catch. The adjustable foot cradle is also padded for stability and added comfort when used with bare feet.
The rubber handles are infused with antimicrobial solution to prevent germs from spreading in high-use commercial environments, while also being easy to clean.
New webbing, made with multi-colour weave, is designed for smooth adjustment and optimal suspension training use, as well as to prevent counterfeits.
The suspension trainer’s handle loop also incorporates foam into the webbing for extra softness.
fitness-kit.net keyword: trx
Precor spins out new range
Precor has launched three new Spinner bikes to the indoor cycling market – the result of its recent tie-up with the Spinning brand. The three bikes are the Spinner RIDE, Spinner SHIFT and Spinner RALLY.
Spinner RALLY includes brand new engineering and an aluminium frame. Spinner SHIFT is designed to suit any level of rider, while the Spinner RIDE offers clubs a starting point, entry-level bike.
All three bikes include a 43lb perimeter weighted flywheel to deliver the signature Spinner feel – a smooth and fluid motion – with narrow pedal spacing to improve the both the experience and the performance for the rider.
Other features on the new bikes include a 5-degree handlebar rise – to ensure comfort in all hand positions for any size of user – as well as an adjustable bike seat.
Each bike can be fitted with a Spinning Studio console, which automatically pairs with any ANT+ compatible heart rate monitor. The console also features a large backlit display indicating cadence (pedal RPM), heart rate/pulse, time, distance and calories, along with a low battery indicator.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Precor