A new fitness craze is taking over the internet, where people are crawling, jumping, and moving like animals. Called “quadrobics,” the trend has flooded TikTok and Instagram feeds, with enthusiasts showing off their bear crawls and feline leaps, often wearing animal masks and furry tails. What started as a quirky hobby has turned into a movement. Belgian documentary filmmaker Alexia Kraft de la Saulx, who first experimented with this unusual practice, has turned it into a full-fledged lifestyle and calls it the “Tarzan Movement.” While followers claim quadrobics can make you fit, experts are not entirely convinced. To understand its real effects, we spoke to Dr. Indramani Upadhyay, MPT (Ortho), HOD – The Center for Knee and Hip Care, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, who explained how the viral workout could both help and harm your body.What Is Quadrobics?Quadrobics is a full-body workout that combines crawling, leaping, and balancing, imitating the movements of four-legged animals. It involves using both hands and feet at once, engaging nearly every muscle in the body. The best part is that it can be practiced anywhere, without the need for equipment.But what sets quadrobics apart from other workouts that also involve the arms and legs? Traditional aerobics mainly targets the legs and cardiovascular system through rhythmic moves like jogging or dancing. Quadrobics, on the other hand, focuses on the synchronized movement of all four limbs, building functional strength through more varied, animal-like patterns rather than repetitive actions.What began as a small online niche trend has now evolved into a viral movement. Alexia’s YouTube channel has inspired many to join in, including Leo, known online as “The French Tarzan,” and Victor Manuel, founder of the “Tarzan Movement.”Is Quadrobics Good for Your Health?In recent years, quadrobics has captured attention for its unconventional yet challenging style of fitness. It strengthens several muscle groups at once and helps develop coordination and stability. However, the movements also carry a risk of strain if done without proper form or guidance.According to Dr. Upadhyay, while walking or crawling on all fours can have benefits, incorrect posture or overuse may lead to injury. Some of the key concerns include:Joint Strain and Pain:Continuous pressure on the wrists, shoulders, knees, and elbows can cause overuse injuries, especially when performed on hard surfaces or with poor technique.Lower Back Discomfort:A weak core or misaligned spine can lead to back pain or worsen existing spinal problems.Knee and Wrist Injuries:Those with arthritis, ligament injuries, or weak wrists should be careful, as these joints carry much of the body’s weight during quadrobics.Risk of Muscle Imbalance:Overdoing quadrobic routines without balancing them with stretching or other forms of exercise may tighten certain muscles, particularly in the hips and shoulders.Quadrobics: How Beneficial Is the Viral Trend?Despite the risks, quadrobics has its share of advantages. Practitioners like Alexia, Leo, and Victor describe it as a powerful full-body workout that engages lesser-used muscles. Trainers say it can boost stability, body awareness, and mindfulness, some even call it a form of “moving meditation.” According to Dr. Upadhyay, the main benefits include:Improves Core Strength:Moving on all fours activates the abdominal and lower back muscles, helping improve posture and reduce back pain.Enhances Shoulder and Arm Endurance:The continuous load on the arms helps strengthen and tone the shoulders, triceps, and forearms, much like a dynamic plank.Boosts Coordination and Balance:Since the movements require alternating arm and leg motion, they help improve neuromuscular coordination and overall balance.Increases Flexibility and Mobility:The flowing, animal-like actions enhance mobility and stretch tight areas like the hips, spine, and shoulders.Aids in Functional Fitness:The primal movements mimic natural motion, improving agility and strength that translate into everyday physical activities.Quadrobics can be a creative and engaging way to work out, but safety should always come first. Beginners should start slow, use soft flooring, and maintain proper alignment to avoid strain. Consulting a physiotherapist or trainer before starting is advisable, especially for those with joint or back problems.When practiced with care and awareness, quadrobics can enhance strength, flexibility, and coordination. But like any viral workout, it should be approached mindfully.
Email
Google
Facebook Email Google Facebook