Many of us have seen the remarkable poses and positions achieved by the contortionists and have thought, “How can anybody do that!” The answer is: regular contortion classes and patience. With time and effort invested in contortion training, most people’s flexibility and strength would improve to a point that positions thought impossible to achieve only months before become fairly easy. In addition to being able to strike some impressive poses, contortion training, when undertaken with the guidance of an experienced and qualified instructor, offers numerous benefits to the average person.
Of course, anyone interested in contortion training is advised to first consult with a doctor to ensure that contortion training is right for them. Once this is done, they will be able to experience the many benefits of regularly challenging their body to extend into positions that many people are unable to even contemplate doing themselves!
1. Increased Strength
Contortion classes involve various bodyweight exercises and holds that target multiple muscle groups simultaneously. As a result, participants can experience significant improvements in overall strength, particularly in their core, back, shoulders, and legs. What’s more, these strength-building exercises are usually considered static weight training, a subset of weight training where you hold a position with resistance for a period of time. The benefits of static training include improved muscle fiber activation when compared to dynamic weight training.
2. Improved Flexibility
Contortionists are renowned for their incredible flexibility, and through regular training, the average person can also see remarkable improvements in their flexibility. Stretching and contortion movements work to increase the range of motion in joints and muscles, making everyday movements easier and more fluid. Because those training in contortion benefit from increased range of motion, the exercises have many functional benefits that include less chance of injury when doing activities like running, playing tennis or lifting weights.
3. Promotes Spinal Health
Contortion classes often incorporate backbends and includes spinal stretches and position holds that strengthen the muscles along the spine. When performed correctly and under proper guidance, these movements can contribute to improved spinal health, better posture, improved spinal mobility and increased vascular circulation in the back.
4. Calorie Burning
Surprisingly for many, contortion training can be quite physically demanding, involving a combination of strength exercises and dynamic stretching. As a result, it can lead to a significant hourly calorie burn, making it an effective addition to a fitness routine for those looking to manage their weight.
5. Body Awareness and Control
Contortion training can help you develop a heightened level of body awareness and control. Participants learn to understand their bodies better, which can translate to improved balance, coordination and proprioception (reduced clumsiness) in various activities.
“With time and effort invested in contortion training, most people’s flexibility and strength would improve to a point that positions thought impossible to achieve only months before become fairly easy.”
6. Stress Relief
Like many physical activities, contortion training can act as a stress reliever. Engaging in the practice allows individuals to focus on their movements and breathing, promoting relaxation and helping to alleviate tension. In particular, many of us store stress in our muscles as tension. By stretching and working these muscles, we literally squeeze out this tension making us feel more relaxed and less stressed.
7. Confidence and Mental Strength
As participants progress in their contortion training, achieving new flexibility and strength milestones, it can boost their confidence and self-esteem. Overcoming challenges and mastering difficult poses can also enhance mental resilience and determination.
8. Artistic Expression
Contortion training combines elements of athleticism and artistry, allowing individuals to express themselves creatively through fluid and elegant movements. Once you “get good” at contortion, you can use your new-found talents to perform and impress your friends, family and even strangers!
It is important to note that contortion training should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a qualified instructor. As with any physical activity, improper techniques or overexertion can lead to injuries. Therefore, beginners should start slowly and gradually progress to more advanced movements, always listening to their bodies and seeking professional guidance to ensure safe and effective training.
Cirque Art Studio
Cirque Art Studio is a premier circus performance arts school in North Miami Beach, FL, located in the Keystone Plaza. We focus on exercise and physical fitness programs for youth and adults, women, and men, that strengthen the body and improve overall flexibility and mobility. Get physically and mentally stronger and increase your body’s range of motion. Our circus skills classes are fun for everyone! In addition to our youth classes, for kids, we offer an after-school program and seasonal camps.
You can enroll in an adult Acrobatics & Tumbling, Mixed Aerial, Flexibility and Contortion, or Hand Balancing class today, or enroll your child in our After School Program, Youth Contortion, or Youth Aerial Silks classes by clicking here.
