Fancy some Hot Hula?
Can you take a traditional Polynesian dance and turn it into a fitness workout? The creator of Hot Hula believes so – and the growing success of her program would seem to prove it.
Hot Hula is the brainchild of ex-pat Kiwi Anna-Rita Sloss, now based in California. While working with one of the world’s largest health club chains, 24 Hour Fitness, Anna-Rita was asked to design a group exercise class with her own ‘unique flavour’. Formerly of West Auckland and of Pacific Island descent, Anna-Rita set to work and choreographed a class with a fresh Polynesian style, fused with funky Reggae music Hot Hula, as she named it, became an overnight success in the US clubs.
During a recent trip home this year Anna-Rita launched Hot Hula with New Zealand chain, Club Physical. While striking a chord and proving popular with regular club members, Anna-Rita and Club Physical management have also acted to help those on lower incomes increase their daily exercise by opening up classes to non-members for the affordable casual rate of $5 a class.
“We’re aware that obesity and Type 2 diabetes, particularly in South Auckland, is among the highest in the world. Our goal is to attract those who may not be already on an exercise program with a class that’s so much fun you don’t realise you’re exercising at all!” said Tina Richards of Club Physical.
What’s the hottest – and most original – class in your club?
Source: Club Physical
Endorsed by the Australian