What is Animal Flow?
Developed in 2010, Animal Flow incorporates ground-based movements like the crab reach, beast activation, and traveling ape. These exercises aim to enhance coordination and body awareness by mimicking natural, primal motions. The workout’s accessibility—requiring no equipment—and its emphasis on functional fitness have contributed to its resurgence, especially post-COVID, as more people seek versatile home workouts.
Benefits of Animal Flow
Animal Flow focuses on strengthening the body’s weak links, improving overall physical resilience. By engaging in movements that require supporting oneself on hands and feet, practitioners develop better balance and coordination. This form of training not only aids in injury prevention but also enhances real-world physical preparedness. Additionally, the practice has been linked to improved flexibility, which is associated with longevity.
Incorporating Animal Flow into Your Routine
You don’t need to overhaul your current fitness regimen to benefit from Animal Flow. Incorporating elements as a warm-up can activate muscles and prepare the body for more intense workouts. For instance, the crab reach can prime the serratus anterior muscles before a bench press. Moreover, its portability makes it an excellent option for travel or when access to a gym is limited.
Getting Started
While Animal Flow movements may appear intuitive, proper technique is essential to maximize benefits and prevent strain, especially on the wrists. Beginners are encouraged to start slowly, focusing on mastering individual movements before progressing to more complex flows. Many fitness apps now offer guided Animal Flow sessions, making it easier to learn and practice safely.
Incorporating Animal Flow into your fitness routine can offer a refreshing and effective way to enhance mobility, strength, and overall body awareness. Its emphasis on natural movements and functional fitness makes it a valuable addition for anyone looking to diversify their workouts and improve physical resilience.
