Following in the steps of P90X and CrossFit, Zuu could be the next big thing in high-intensity interval workouts. Developed in Australia, the routines mimic animal movements and use your own body weight to keep muscles lean and mean. Amanda Scelsi, a clinical exercise physiologist and Zumba instructor at MetroHealth, breaks the workout down.
The Cobra
By holding a low plank and shifting your body weight left to right, this move combines isometric exercise, which involves holding one position, and concentric and eccentric exercise, which involves lengthening and shortening of muscles. "The combination of those types of muscular contractions is better for increasing strength," says Scelsi. "This specific move would target core and upper body strength."
The Frog Squat
Beef up your lower half with this move, which sends leg and glute muscles through a full range of motion by keeping elbows bent and inside each knee, pressing your hands together and repeatedly squatting and standing. "[With this motion] you can elongate your muscle to its full extent, which can generate more strength and build muscle faster," says Scelsi.
The Gorilla
In a squat, lean forward and rest your hands on the floor, jump so your feet land on either side of your hands and repeat the motion so that you're running on all fours. Including this exercise ensures your heart strength matches your muscle strength. "You're moving across the length of the gym, and you're moving quickly," says Scelsi. "[Cardio] is a really important component of any well-rounded exercise regimen."
