Tae Bo in Abu Dhabi

Watching a Tae Bo class from behind soundproof glass, it appears as though a group of people are suddenly possessed and trying to eliminate invisible enemies for an hour. However, walking into the class itself with the blaring music and a screaming instructor, it’s apparent there’s no paranormal activity – just a really intense workout in progress. So we signed up for some sessions to see what all the fuss is about and spoke to our zealous instructor Dawood to find out more about the programme.

Dawood is a very friendly fitness trainer at the Hilton Abu Dhabi who looks like someone you want on your side in a fight. The energetic Syrian has been teaching Tae Bo, among other classes, for years and has acquired a steady stream of dedicated participants. The class is taught at the Hilton Health Club three times a week and classes are often filled to the brim. While most of the participants are female, we did notice a few men, and all age groups were represented.

The high-intensity workout started to gain global popularity in the early ’90s. Tae Bo was developed by Billy Blanks, a Taekwondo instructor, in 1976, and includes a combination of aerobics, dance moves, martial arts
and boxing training. The course was designed as an efficient way to burn calories and get fit. Today however, there are classes of Tae Bo taught in gyms all over the world. The reason for its continued success is that many unanimously and wholeheartedly agree it gets you in shape quickly.

Although it is a no contact sport, the entire hour consists of punching and kicking, very similar to moves found in karate. ‘People shouldn’t think this class is the same as learning a martial art,’ says Dawood. ‘This is only for getting fit.’ Although Dawood teaches several courses at the club, including kick boxing and circuit training, he admits that no class enjoys popularity as much as the Tae Bo one. ‘Many people that try it for the first time keep coming back for more; I have had some people tell me they are addicted to it.’

There are mixed reviews concerning whether anyone can immediately start doing the work out, but Dawood personally believes that anyone can enjoy the class, regardless of their level of fitness. It should be noted though that for someone who is completely out of shape, the class can be especially gruelling. As a very high intensity cardiovascular workout, each session can burn up to 800 calories, while a regular aerobic workout burns half that amount.

Beginners will have an aching body the next day, or even the first week, as the course engages a wide range of muscles. ‘The important thing to remember is to start easy and listen to your instructor; if you feel that your body is screaming “no”, you should take a small rest.’ Technique is also very important. Since a lot of the class is punching, jabbing and kicking, newcomers would do well to consider what the instructor says in order to avoid hurting their joints.

Despite the many warnings about aches and pains, this class does promise quick results. Dawood is always at hand, helping out the newcomers and pushing his regulars. And regardless of how sore your muscles might be after the first few sessions, you can expect to see fitness and toning results in less than three weeks of regular attendance. With such guaranteed outcomes, it is easy to see why the course has become so popular worldwide.
Tae Bo is offered at the Hilton Abu Dhabi Health Club on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 6pm-7pm. Non-members pay Dhs55 a class or can buy a pack for ten classes for Dhs495. Members pay Dhs35 a class or Dhs295 for ten classes. Hilton Abu Dhabi, Al Khubeirah (02 681 1900).