26 October, 2015
Health & Wellness

Underwater Spinning at Hydro 1.0

26 October, 2015

We review classes at Hong Kong’s first aqua fitness centre!

We’re here today to talk about underwater spinning. Yep. You read that right. That’s a thing. It is a spinning class. In a pool.

hydro spinning review reception

If your head looks like a curious Ewok right now, you’re in the same boat I was when I first heard about Hydro 1.0 in Kennedy Town. Let’s go through the questions you’re probably asking:

“But… How?”

The bikes are in a small pool, with the seats about 8 inches below the surface so that your torso, arms and the handle bars are above the water.

hydro review spinning hong kong 2

“What do you wear?”

Given my poor planning habits and not reading the instructions, I turned up in a bikini – NOT recommended. I would suggest a sports bra and shorts – or any other standard workout wear. You’ll also need underwater pool shoes and a towel. If you don’t have the shoes – you can rent at the center for $20. They will also provide webbed neoprene gloves that help you push and pull the water during the full body work out.

“But wait… back to how? Is it just a normal spinning class?”

Since the water provides the resistance, there are no levels to worry about in this class – it’s much more about the positioning of your body, the speed of your legs and the movement of your arms. The metal bikes have plastic foot straps to keep your feet locked in. You’ll move between not only sitting and standing, but hanging off the back of the bike to pedal and stretching off the side.

hydro spinning review hong kong 3

“Ok, ok. But WHY?”

The theory goes – the combination of higher resistance and lower impact is better for both your muscles and your joints. I found it much more dynamic than a land-based spinning class with a fun departure from my normal routine. That said, I also had moments of flailing around and feeling like an epileptic duck – but I’m pretty sure that fades as you get used to the sensation.

“Is that all the do there?”

Nope! You can also try out an underwater fitness class or an indoor dragon boat session. I had the opportunity to try out the former. The class uses those flippery gloves and noodles as props, in addition to TRX-like straps hanging from the sides of the pool. It was a combination of cardio, stretching and strength with almost no impact on the joints – perfect if you’re recovering from an injury. The dragon boat sessions help paddlers focus on their technique and stamina with team and individual classes offered.

“Ok, I’ll give this a go – how much?”

Single classes cost $450 or you can buy class packs of up to 20 that will bring the price as low as $250 per session. Schedule and rates are available on Hydro’s website here.

Hydro 1.0, Shop no. 6 Brilliant Court, No. 28 Praya, Kennedy Town (HKU MTR station, Exit C2), 5545 4518, hydro1hk.com. Email [email protected] for more info!

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