From mermaid swimming to yoga for dogs, some unconventional ways to stay fit have emerged in recent years. But the newest trend may be the strangest yet.
"Quadrobics" - a form of exercise where people walk, jump or run on all fours - is gaining popularity through social media.
Advocates of this type of fitness describe it as a "complete, total-body workout," and some claim to have developed abdominal muscles in just a few weeks.
However, experts warn of potential dangers. Exercising in this unusual position can cause injuries to the hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders. Samuel Cornell and Hunter Bennett, exercise science specialists from Australia, explained:
“Quadrobics uses only body resistance, so the load on the muscles is limited. For strengthening and bone density, weightlifting is more effective.”
Psychological risk
Some psychologists warn that the "animalistic" nature of quadrobics is often associated with the communities of therians (people who feel spiritually like animals) and furries (those who like to dress up as animals).
Clinical psychologist Yuliia Malania said that if a child practices this simply as a sport or entertainment, there is no reason for concern. But if more pronounced animalistic behaviors appear, it may be necessary to consult a specialist.
"It should be considered when the hobby takes on an antisocial, aggressive character, or when children begin to fully identify with animals," she added.
Social trend more than training
According to experts, quadrobics is primarily a social media trend, where visuality matters more than real physical benefits.
"While walking and hopping on all fours may increase stability and flexibility, there are no scientific studies that prove long-term benefits or risks," Cornell and Bennett said.
Who are furries?
Furries are individuals who have an interest in anthropomorphic characters – animals with human features. Some dress in special costumes or wear clothing with animal ears or tails, and may have a “fursona”, an animal version of themselves.
Most are young, mostly male, and many of them are connected to online communities, art, games and role-playing. A small number are therians, who feel spiritually like animals. /GazetaExpress/
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