As if you really need 33 reasons to strap these babies on. Kangoo Jumps are HOT...and you probably didn't even know it. They are popular everywhere...well, everywhere except for here in the U.S. But now that the Kardashian sisters are bouncing around in them perhaps we'll see this European fitness trend take off. When I first read about Kangoo Jumps, I thought Oh no, rollerblades 2.0!! But thank god, that's not the case. Kangoos are low impact, rebound sport shoes originally developed in Switzerland for joggers and now designed for all ages and fitness levels. They're supposed to be safe on your joints and versatile for exercise. They're currently used for power walking, cross-country jogging & running, group fitness, athletic training, rehabilitation & injury prevention, dance and children's recreation. Kangoos are a laugh-out-loud crowd pleaser. Everyone likes to bounce, right? So why haven't they hit it big in the U.S.?
Here's the problem: Americans are skeptical of new fitness trends. Why? Because the Shake Weight and 3 Minute Legs have turned fitness gadgets and inventions into fodder for SNL skits, which I must admit are hysterical...but aren't really helping Kangoo's cause. It's a shame because Kangoo Jumps inspire fitness with intrigue and recreation. They help people with running ailments experience injury-free running that can strengthen shins, weak spines and bad knees. Kangoo Jumps reportedly burn 20% more calories than running. I'm sure if you consistently use them for exercise they'll aid in weight loss as well as toned thighs and calves. The questions is, can you make the leap to try them? Personally, I think Kangoo Jumps are so bad they're good. Kangoos are a novelty that initially strike you as embarrassing--something you wouldn't be caught dead in. There's no denying it...they're over the top...and that's what makes you (and the Kardashian sisters) secretly want to try them until one day you find yourself joining forces with the rollerbladers and their crazy dance party in Central Park.
Fitness isn't just about lifting weights, it's about engaging in physical activity that generates good vibes. I've said it before and I'll say it again--laughing burns calories! We all need to take a day off from our posh gyms and celebrity workouts to try something bizarre and ridiculous. It's easy to get bored with our workout routines. You have to mix it up. Add some laughter and humility to your fitness lifestyle and don't be afraid to embrace trends like Kangoo Jumps. I love the fact that the Kardashian sisters Kangoo jumped together...looks like they had fun. Check out Boing with Kangoo, a Kangoo Jump class offered at Crunch. I haven't tried it yet but I'm hoping that my friends at Crunch will read this and invite me to a class...hey, a girl can dream can't she?
Official KangooJumps Website; For stylish KangooJumps check out Boing Fitness (prices range from $179 to $275)
Kardashian photo courtesy of PopSugar; Video courtesy of YouTube.