Is Moving Like an Animal the Secret to Good Health?

July 5, 2024 – The fitness world is abuzz with a new trend that promises to revolutionize how we think about exercise: quadrupedal movement training (QMT), more popularly known as animal flow workouts. These bodyweight exercises mimic the movements of various animals, promoting strength, mobility, and overall health. But is moving like an animal truly the secret to good health?

The Rise of Animal Flow Workouts

Animal flow workouts have gained significant traction, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, where videos of people crawling, prowling, and transitioning between animal-like positions have garnered millions of views. This trend is part of a broader movement that includes primal movement and programs like GMB Elements, which assert that moving like an animal can lead to greater strength and mobility.

What is Animal Flow?

Animal flow, a type of QMT, involves a series of “animal locomotive movements.” The basic forms include Ape, Beast, and Crab, each requiring the practitioner to move in specific ways that engage different muscle groups. These movements are combined with various switches and transitions, such as the underswitch and Scorpion, to form “flows.”

Marcus Vilmé, a certified personal trainer and instructor of Animal Flow, explains the benefits: “It’s a combination of cardio and resistance training, which is one of the most effective forms of exercise, especially for those with limited time.”

The Health Benefits

The benefits of QMT extend beyond physical strength. Balancing on all fours engages various stabilizer muscles, particularly around the core and shoulders, improving coordination, balance, and control. Dr. Anatolia Vick-Kregel, assistant director of fitness and wellness at Rice University, notes that this greater stability helps prevent injury and supports the body’s posture and alignment.

There might also be cognitive benefits. A 2016 study found that students who completed QMT training showed significant improvement in executive function, a neuropsychological test measure, compared to a control group.

The Appeal of QMT

Part of the appeal of QMT is its inherent playfulness. “There is joy and fun to be had in moving around like an animal,” says Darryl Edwards, author of the book Animal Moves and founder of the Primal Play Method. This sense of play, combined with the workout’s nostalgic elements of crawling, climbing, and jumping, contributes to its growing popularity.

Getting Started with QMT

For those interested in trying QMT, starting with the basics is crucial. Edwards suggests beginning with simple movements like crawling on your hands and feet like a bear. While it might seem easy, the challenge quickly becomes apparent.

However, it’s important to progress gradually. Vick-Kregel warns that jumping into advanced movements without proper preparation can lead to injury. Bodyweight workouts can be scaled for any fitness level, but consulting with an expert, especially for those with chronic injuries or specific physical considerations, is advisable.

Conclusion

While QMT might not be the solution for those looking to bulk up, it offers a holistic approach to fitness that combines strength, mobility, and fun. As more people discover the benefits of moving like an animal, QMT is set to become a staple in the fitness routines of many.

For more insights on the latest fitness trends and health tips, stay tuned to Sarhind Times.