Where does BodyArt come from?
Germany. The discipline was developed by Robert Steinbacher in 1994. A former gymnast and professional dancer, he was trained at the Broadway school and has worked on dance, television and fashion shows. Alongside these glamourous projects, he is also a yoga instructor and children's therapist. "Working with children with special needs, he came up with the idea of this concept based on the individual", says Serge Bukasa, coach at Aspria and one of our BodyArt specialists. By helping them work on their motor skills, he developed this discipline which is functional and not spiritual, non-competitive and non-judgmental. BodyArt was brought to us by Ulrike Mangold (who also leads classes here) in the late 1990s.
Since then, this training style has grown steadily in popularity. It has been a resounding success in the United States, where it has been dubbed "the incredible discipline of the other side of the Atlantic" and where one of its greatest ambassadors is none other than... Madonna. And guess who was her private coach? Robert Steinbacher, yes!
What does it consist of?
To sum up (and having tested it), we would say that it is a balanced mix between yoga and fitness. The method is indeed inspired by yoga, with Pilates and muscle strengthening," confirms Serge, before adding: "There is a more dynamic part, also cardio oriented. We combine classical postures and breathing techniques to achieve a synergy between physical training and mental relaxation".
If you are used to practising yoga or Pilates, you should find your feet fairly quickly... but be prepared for your first session to be more intensive and muscle-engaging than expected (and the aftermath more painful for certain muscles)! You might as well be warned: during the first few classes, the cardio part might surprise some of you (but you'll be proud of yourself if you keep going until the end).
What are the benefits of this training style?
It works the whole body, but also the breathing and the mind. "The aim is to ensure the proper functioning of the whole body by strengthening the muscles and stabilising the whole system from which each movement is made". Other recognised benefits of BodyArt include improved coordination of movements, improved cardiovascular system, improved posture, reduced stress, and a general sense of wellbeing.
What should you expect from a BodyArt class?
All you need is a yoga mat and a comfortable outfit. You practice barefoot. During an hour, the work is done in depth, focusing on breathing, stability, coordination, strength, flexibility and endurance. Serge Bukasa: "Yoga postures become a gateway to either strength training, stretching, awareness, or even more therapeutic objectives... There are all sorts of exercises, it's very varied. There is no rigid content to be strictly respected. Each coach has his own repertoire and adapts his course according to his creativity and his students. Each coach infuses his own intensity: with some, you will be more in a cocoon, with others, it will be more intense, more dynamic... ". A hint: with Serge, it's all about intensity!
It is advisable to start with a basic class and then try out several to see which one best suits your desires and expectations. Serge adds: "Ideally, you need to do it 2 to 3 times a week to feel the effects. Over the months, the results are very noticeable.
Who is BodyArt for?
This is one of the strong points of the discipline: it is accessible for everyone. Serge Bukasa confirms : "It is suitable for everyone and for all ages. For example, there are classes adapted for pregnant women and children. And, except for specific medical advice, there are no contraindications".