We know superheroes as characters who possess amazing superpowers so they can dedicate themselves to doing good in the universe. Wonder Woman and Superman are just two of the best known superheroes who inspire others with their indomitable strength and speed, and ability to take flight.

It was these superhuman heroes and their incredible superpowers that inspired Kinesiologists Jensen Bako and Laura Duggan when they were looking to introduce an innovative new work-out class for residents at Wesbrook Village.

“At its core, we’re offering a circuit training program and all the many benefits it offers,” says Jensen. “But we stretch the fun factor and entice participants by incorporating a superhero theme and moves, which may include things like a thundering ‘Hulk Smash’ or a ‘Superman fly balance’ move.”

If it sounds like a lot of fun – it is! Superheroes Circuit Training runs every Wednesday at 2 p.m. with participants rotating through a set of stations every 40 seconds with breaks after each station for a heart-pumping 20 minutes.

“We were thrilled to see the excitement among residents as they learned new exercises while having so much fun,” says Laura. “The energy in the room was electric and the song challenge at the end of the circuit adds diversity to the training which residents really enjoy!”

At each station, participants may use a piece of equipment or do an aerobic activity sometimes incorporating a superhero move or being led by a catchy tune, which helps to fuel a fun-filled full body work-out. “We think this class is fantastic because it offers an upbeat atmosphere while at the same time providing all the excellent benefits of circuit training,” says Jensen. “That includes improving cardiovascular fitness and exercising most major muscle groups.”

Circuit training is a popular form of exercise as it is appropriate for all experience and fitness levels and adds variety to a regular work-out routine. It can also help individuals build comfort with various pieces of equipment in a fitness centre, which is an added benefit.

“We introduce all residents to the equipment in our fitness centre when they move-in, but this class really helps to build comfort to increase individual usage,” says Jensen.

“I love the variety of training offered throughout the class and how we switch from using machines to aerobic exercises,” says Gale. Classmate Glenn enjoys the new work-out because it’s “lots of fun and I enjoy the change”.

While residents haven’t necessarily donned their superpower outfits in the new circuit training class,

Jensen and Laura haven’t ruled out costumes as another way to lift the fun factor in the room.

“We’re excited to see how the class evolves and look forward to residents exploring their own fitness superpowers!”