All about quadrobics, the newest kid on the fitness block, and how it can help strengthen your heart and prevent diseases

But what is so unique about quadrobics? Don’t we use both of our hands and feet in other forms of exercise, too?

Traditional aerobics mostly engages the legs and cardiovascular system of the body by employing rhythmic movement techniques such as jogging, stepping and dancing. Quadrobics, on the other hand, focuses on the synchronised movement of all four limbs. It emphasises functional movements that are more diverse compared to the repetitive motions found in traditional workouts.

“While some exercises such as bear crawls, mountain climbers and different variations of plank involve the utilisation of four limbs, it is generally a part of a broader workout regimen, whereas the core principle of quadrobics is to use all four limbs,” said Dr G Manoj Kumar, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills.

Quadrobics involves mimicking the movements of four-legged animals. (Source: Freepik)

What are the exercises one can perform as part of a Quadrobics routine?

Quadrobics involves a variety of exercises that emphasize movement on all fours, such as:

-Crab walk: This exercise involves sitting on the ground, then slightly lifting your hips and walking in various directions.

-Monkey walk: These are fluid and quick side-to-side movements while in a squatting position.

-Leopard crawl: These involve low, stealthy movements with knees close to the ground.

Other exercises like frog jumps, gorilla walks, lizard crawls, spider walks, scorpion twists, panther walks, and alligator crawls add variety by adding jumps, forward movements, crawls, and twists.

What are the health benefits of quadrobics?

“Quadrobics has an influence on health in many ways because it takes a well-rounded approach to working out. It builds up the core while burning calories and strengthening the heart which helps in stability and disease prevention,” said Dr Kumar.

These exercises gives the whole body a workout and uses lots of muscles, including your core, shoulders, arms, legs, and back. They enhance coordination, and improve overall functional fitness, making quadrobics a unique approach to physical training.