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METROWORKOUT

The six-pack abs inspiration

Photo: G. Moorthy

POSH Shedding fat in friendly atmosphere

Inspired by actor Surya’s perfect six-pack abs in his latest flick, I was drawn to body sculpting. But what worried me was the time factor. My layers of fat acquired over the years would sure be stubborn enough to melt away in short time. That is when a friend recommended the newly launched Maverick Fitness Studio at Hotel Fortune Pandiyan.

From the word go, the studio looked different from the so many other run-of-the-mill centres. Plush and posh and its state of the art equipment was enticing enough to step in. The manager N.K. Aridhas was responsive as he got down to the job fast, first introducing me to his team.

Next he made me sit for an assessment session taking my weight, measuring my height, chest (normal position and expansion), lower abdomen, thighs, fore arms, upper arm, calf, body mass index, waist hip ratio and fat percentage.

“It is very important to screen every individual. We assess to find out a client’s requirement, whether he or she wants to be fit or just reduce weight. We also try to trace whether the client has specific goals like toning up any particular muscle,” explains Mr. Aridhas.

Chief Executive Officer of Maverick, Shanker Basu, an internationally certified fitness expert, erases misconceptions attached to weight reduction. “One has to understand that everyone has six-pack abs. But for many, it is covered under the fatty skin. People should also realise that they cannot burn fat they have gained over the years within a few days of exercising. Without comprehending such basic facts, people tend to fall prey to attractive advertisements. To lose One kg of fat, one needs to burn 7,500 calories. This is the reason why our qualified trainers cousel the clients and suggest a lifestyle change,” he says.

A physiotherapist assessed my fitness levels through a series of sub maximal tests to find out my strength, endurance, stability, coordination, speed and flexibility. Since I am not an athlete, I walk on the treadmill for about 30 minutes. First time on the moving platform, I am a bit apprehensive. Retaining the balance turns out to be quite a struggle. But soon, I get used to it. “For athletes a 12-minute run on the treadmill is enough,” says physio S.S. Madhan.

After an hour of intense assessment, I get a list of exercises and the timings along with a nutrition chart. Now I start with a lat pull down on the seat rowing machine to strengthen my shoulder muscle.

“If you have to burn maximum calories, it can happen only through cardio vascular routines such as skipping, jogging and cycling,” advises Mr. Aridhas propelling me to jump on to the treadmill again.

I return enlightened after a 45-minute strenuous routine that weight reduction and improving fitness are not directly proportional.

Some may find exercising here pocket pinching affair. But, for those who can afford, it is sure fun.

The centre is open between 5.30 a.m. and 9.30 p.m. and on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more details, call N.A. Aridhas, centre manager on 9176677108.

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