Photograph: 123rf.com / Rosen Vasilev
Zoom Park Asia
#01-14, 200 Pandan Gardens, tel: 6334-4615.
R$280 for eight weekly lessons (excluding a $50 one-time sign-up fee); $40 for a drop-in class. Thursdays, 6.30-7.30pm.
Email jumpacrobat@zoomparkasia.com to sign up.
The Workout
After short stretches and warm-ups, we were led to do short jumps on small trampolines. We repeated different moves until we had mastered them, before moving on to more difficult ones. The course follows a structured syllabus, which aims to have participants master certain moves, like jump-sits and front-drops, by the end of it. These moves are focused on improving core stability and balance. The trampolines are smaller than the ones at Gymkraft and The Yard, and were less intimidating for newcomers.
The Instructions
Coach Jessica was encouraging and clear in her instructions. She also gave useful feedback on my mistakes, which could lead to aches and pains. With more difficult moves like front-drops, she’d push a mat under my body so I’d land on a cushioned surface. Since it was a much shorter class than the others, it did not feel too strenuous. I also ached less the next day as compared to the other two classes.
Facilities
Unlike Gymkraft and The Yard, Zoom Park Asia’s trampoline classes take place in a trampoline park. Clean shower and locker facilities are available, and a small cafe is located near the entrance for a quick bite after.
Verdict
A well-planned class with reassuring instructions – perfect for newbies.
8.5/10
The Yard
#01-03, 10 Science Centre Road.
$50 for a two-hour class. Mondays, 7.30-9.30pm.
E-mail enquiries@theyard.com.sg for more information.
The Workout
We started with warm-up exercises and stretches, and gymnastic moves like forward rolls and cartwheels – beginners like me did simpler versions of them. In addition to practicing jumps such as tuck, pike, and straddle jumps, we spent most of our time on the large trampoline, mastering more advanced moves like jump-sits, twists and front-drops. We used thick mats for practice before moving to the trampoline. We also did some core conditioning – a series of intense floor exercises – which complemented the trampoline workout nicely. By the end of the class, the beginners were competent with forward rolls. We ended the session with stretching.
The Instructions
Because this was a larger group, coach Jeanette could not always give everyone individual attention. However, many of the participants were quite experienced and helped point out my mistakes. Jeanette advises that you should be moderately fit to keep up with the class.
Facilities
This is the only gymnasium that was fully air-conditioned, and with new equipment as it was opened earlier this year. We made good use of the sponge pit – useful for breaking falls when learning more advanced moves like somersaults. The shower facilities were under renovation when I was there.
Verdict
The most comfortable gym but you need to be fairly fit to do the classes.
7.5/10
Gymkrat Jumpadult Trampoline Class
100 Guillemard Road, tel: 6677-6988.
$295 for eight weekly sessions; $45 for a trial class. Fridays, 7-8.30pm.
Call, SMS or Whatsapp 9128-4644, or e-mail admin@gymkraft.com to sign up.
The Workout
After starting with a thorough stretch, we learned pike, straddle, star, tuck and twist jumps on the long trampoline, and then graduated to the large trampoline (typically used in competitions) before ending the class with stretching. The class was well-structured and well-paced – but newbies, don’t be surprised if you’re struggling to catch your breath, and you ache the next day, as I did.
The Instructions
Coach Kevin was very experienced, and patient and accommodating to each student. We ran the gamut in terms of ability – from absolute beginners to the experienced. He supervised each person as we took our turns, customising his instructions to our ability. He was also able to point out mistakes clearly. By the end of the class, I was able to perform all the moves with some confidence.
Facilities
The gymnasium is about three years old, and although the equipment showed some wear, it was in overall good condition. It was also not air-conditioned, but the high ceilings and fans prevented it from being stuffy. Nevertheless, prepare to sweat hard. Shower facilities are not available, but the toilets are spacious and relatively clean.
Verdict
An accommodating class that caters to both beginners and more experienced jumpers.
7.5/10
