Latest workout craze drawing numbers

BEAT THIS: Bokwa instructor Gayle Rattigan (far right) says the new fitness craze is fun and easy to learn. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER 070214SP1

A new fitness craze has hit Rotorua with people of all ages joining in.

Bokwa is a group cardio-fitness programme which originated in the United States. Its name is derived from 'Bo' for boxing and 'Kwa' for Kwaito, a dance from Johannesburg, South Africa.

Participants draw letters and numbers with their feet while performing to an energetic workout routine all to the sounds of Top 40 music.

Rotorua Bokwa instructor Gayle Rattigan said senior citizens right down to young children were experiencing the new fitness fun.

"The steps are very straightforward and once you learn them you can put your own style and flavour to it," Mrs Rattigan said. "I had three surf lifesaving guys from the Gold Coast in my class and they got the hang of it in five minutes.

"We use the current songs that you hear on the radio which have a really good beat to it, so even if you don't get it the first time, because it's repetitive you will be able to pick it up."

Mrs Rattigan, who is also a Zumba instructor, said the exercise form was for "anybody who can move". She uses a mixture of verbal and hand signals so hearing impaired people can also take part.

"I teach senior classes where the average age is 70 and I've had little children who were able to join in. You don't have to be musically able or anything ...

"It's not a competition with Zumba as Bokwa is different. The moves are more simple and it gives people the chance to express themselves," Mrs Rattigan said.

Mrs Rattigan teaches Bokwa at Parksyde Community Centre on Monday 9.15am for seniors and an open class on Tuesday at 6.30pm. She also teaches at the Rotorua Youth Centre on Thursday at 6pm. Each class costs $6 or $5 for the senior classes.