Getting fit, folk style: Instructors opt for desi beats

The instructors are of the opinion that a lot of people are not aware about the folk dances, which are native to different parts of the country.

Fitness instructors in the western suburbs and Navi Mumbai are now opting to train clients using Indian folk songs or a mix of western as well as folk as part of their workout regime.

Both the instructors as well as the trainees believe that the Indian fitness regime is much more intense than the western form. (HT File/Representational Image)

“Western fitness regimes have now become monotonous.The client cannot relate to the songs unless it is a famous number. So, to ensure that we retain the client, it is necessary to offer something they have known since childhood,” said Radha Thakkar, a trainer from Vashi.

A folk fitness regime follows the same procedure like any other workout session, wherein the focus is on cardio workouts, upper body and lower body workout steps, but the instructor also insists on yoga as a part of the session.

However, both the instructors as well as the trainees believe that the Indian fitness regime is much more intense than the western form.

“Folk songs require full body exercise, thus it becomes quite intense. While Zumba has helped me maintain stamina, folk fitness has helped me build stamina,” said Neena Shetty, a homemaker from Andheri.

The instructors are of the opinion that a lot of people are not aware about the folk dances, which are native to different parts of the country.

“The dance regime is inspired from 122 folk dances and is catching up as a trend since the workout involves mind, body and soul,” said Aarti Pandey, who introduced the regime.