Terrain workouts: Why soil exercises are the next big thing
What's the story
African soil exercises are slowly coming into the limelight for their interesting take on improving core strength and balance.
Inspired by traditional practices, they use natural terrain to challenge your body in a completely different manner.
Involving multiple muscle groups, these exercises improve physical stability and core endurance.
They provide a holistic way to add to your fitness routines for improved balance and strength.
Sand workouts
The power of sand workouts
Sand workouts are an integral part of African soil exercises.
The uneven surface of sand requires more effort from stabilizing muscles, enhancing balance and coordination.
Activities like running or jumping on sand increase resistance, making muscles work harder without the need for additional weights.
This type of workout is beneficial for improving agility and strengthening the lower body.
Natural obstacles
Utilizing natural obstacles
Natural obstacles like rocks or logs offer perfect opportunities for dynamic movements that enhance core strength.
Climbing over or balancing on these elements fire up the core muscles like nothing else, while also improving whole body coordination.
These activities replicate real-life scenarios where balance is the key, thus preparing you for everyday physical challenges.
Barefoot training
Barefoot training benefits
Training barefoot on natural surfaces like grass or dirt also improves proprioception—the body's ability to sense movement within joints—which is important for staying balanced.
Without shoes, feet can move freely, activating small stabilizing muscles more efficiently.
This not only strengthens foot muscles but also improves posture by promoting proper alignment while exercising.
Animal movements
Incorporating animal movements
Animal movements inspired by wildlife in Africa provide a fun yet challenging way to build core strength and flexibility.
Crawling like a leopard, hopping like a frog, etc., engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously while promoting fluidity of movement.
These dynamic actions help improve both muscular endurance and cardiovascular fitness.