To help those of us fulfil our New Year’s resolution to keep fit, stv’s the five thirty show has been exploring alternative methods to get into shape.
Today sees Vicky attempt to swing from the ropes by joining a trapeze group for the day.
Vicky admits she may have drawn the short straw for this task: “I know I say I’m up for anything and I like a bit of a laugh but this is bit much isn’t it?”
Trapezes are normally used by acrobats or aerialists and are commonly found in the circus, but the techniques and exercises involved mean they are a great way of keeping fit.
Trapeze artist Mark Gibson sheds some light on the arts growing popularity.
“It is a really good way of exercising because it takes you a little bit further in doing things you wouldn’t normally do in the gym.”
He continued, “It’s also a lot more interesting than doing stuff in the gym because it gives you something for your mind to work with and also something for you to aim for.”
Trapeze requires a certain level of fitness before starting, including being able to pull and hold yourself off the ground.
To begin with Vicky required some help to get onto the bar. After some practice, however, she was swinging like a monkey and even accomplished hanging upside-down by her legs.
