Do you KANGOO?

What a workout!

Last night, my pals Stephen, Rich and I had the pleasure of attending a Kangoo jumps fitness class at Crunch Gym. The class was hosted by fitness instructor/personal trainer Mario Jone't Green, and I have to tell you...it was not exactly what I expected.

But nonetheless...it was a great time!

PaulBenjamin, what are Kangoo jumps?

Well, they are safe, low impact rebound sport shoes, providing many great health benefits, for everyone, any age.

Mario is a GREAT trainer, as he kept the class fun, kept it moving, and made sure we were sweating our butts off!

I was just expecting to show up and bounce around for a little bit, but the class was an entire hour long!

I have to tell you...I was a little concerned because I injured my knee last weekend. I haven't been able to go for a run in about a week, and I was thinking that I wouldn't be able to complete the entire class due to my bum knee.

But the Kangoo jumps were a great workout for me! Because of the low-impact bouncing effect, I was able to complete the entire high-intensity class with no strain to my knee.

And did I mention that I sweat like crazy??

Basically, we learned the moves one by one, and then combined them all together into a routine.

I'm not going to lie...There were a couple of moves that I couldn't quite grasp; and there were a few moments throughout the routine where I just spaced out, causing me to get lost. That's when I decided to just jump in place and pretend like I wasn't mentally challenged. :)

I'd like to think that I just created some NEW moves...

Mario, feel free to use these in your next class! HAHA!

However Rich and Stephen were phenomenal, as if they had done this before! They were jumping around, picking up all the moves with ease.

Bastards!

Mario is one of the pioneers of the Kangoo Jumps movement, as he has been 'the face' of this type of exercise here in Chicago. The Chicago Tribune/Metromix named his 'Kangoo Jumps' class at Crunch Gym one of "Chicago's Best Workouts" Summer 2008. He was also a presenter at the Kangoo Jumps International Fitness Festival this year in Spain!

So basically, you need to try this!

If you already have, then you know what I mean.

They are not hard to stand up in, as you stay upright (you WON'T fall over!), while also helping out your balance. They were designed to make you stand up straight, which not only helps your posture, but builds your core muscles.

SO, DO IT!

If you are a member of Crunch gym, then check out this class. If you are not, but still want to try it, then just get in touch with Mario and he will hook you up to attend a session!

And i highly recommend it for anyone who experiences joint pain.

I feel like I burned off a TON of calories...or at least sweat them out!

If you are interested in trying out the class, or for more information, please visit Mario's website, MarioTheTrainer.com.

Or...just let me know. I might just go back with you to do it again!