Animal Flow FAQs
WHAT IS ANIMAL FLOW?
If you were to see Animal Flow visually for the first time, it may look like yoga meets breakdancing, with contemporary dance (or gymnastics) thrown in.
The practice uses ground-based, quadrupedal movement (movement on your hands and feet) to create a fun and challenging workout that takes you through a range of “movement puzzles” to help improve the function of the human animal.
Do I have to growl?
No – that is not this class!
Will I find my inner llama?
Not especially! The “Animal” in Animal Flow really comes from the names of the moves, and from our experience of engaging in movement on all fours.
For more info on the benefits of Animal Flow, see my previous blog post HERE.
WHAT EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
Is it for any age? Fitness level?
Absolutely! Although it is a challenging practice! Animal Flow is designed to provide benefits for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Some of the flows and classes are targeted to the beginner-level, utilizing only low-impact, easier-to-learn movements. Other more advanced flows and classes incorporate much more dynamic power and stability challenges. Everybody will start as a beginner to learn the basic moves and transitions.
If you’re already great with mobility and flexibility, Animal Flow can help you build strength and power. If you’re already strong, Animal Flow can help you improve your mobility and flexibility. Whether you are an athlete, or someone just starting to work out, or somewhere in between, you’ll benefit from incorporating some Animal Flow into your fitness routines.
What if I have an injury?
Animal Flow is a bodyweight fitness program which requires spending a lot of time with your hands and feet on the ground. If you have any medical or physical conditions which limit your ability to support your bodyweight in this position, you should consult with your physician.
What if I’m pregnant?
The more active and fit you are during pregnancy, the easier it will be for you to adapt to your changing shape and weight gain. It will also help you to cope with labour and get back into shape after the birth. However, do not exhaust yourself. You may need to slow down as your pregnancy progresses or if your maternity team advises you to. If in doubt, consult your maternity team.
I can’t dance… can I do it?
Well I say that everyone can dance!
But seriously, yes of course you can. It’s not a dance class, but it will help you improve coordination, and the beginner flows are easier to pick-up.
LOGISTICAL QUESTIONS
What equipment do I need?
None! Your body is all you need.
In the warm-up we may spend more time on our knees, and if you have bony knees like me, you might want to grab a towel or a sweater to soften the impact. But the bulk of the class will be spent on our hands and feet, and any mat/towel/sweater will get in the way.
What space do I need?
Not a lot. Ideally you want to be able to lie down and spread out your arms and legs. Which for me is about 7×7 sock lengths!
However you can do it in much smaller spaces! Check out the #tinyAFflowchallenge on Instagram.
Is there any music?
No – or rather – it depends. Animal Flow doesn’t use any music, but it might vary with instructor.
The great thing is, while your doing it in your living room you can always put whatever motivates you on your speakers at home!
How long is the class?
The Animal Flow class is one hour long.
My children are here, can they join in?
Yes absolutely! Just don’t kick each other in the face!
Where is it?
Ok, so you’ve probably guessed from some of my previous responses, but this class is online. You will receive a link and joining instructions before the class, and you can take part in your living room, bedroom, garden or home gym if you have one!
Have any other questions? Send me an email on louise@bodyworksstudio.co.uk.
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