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The Fitness Benefits of the Pogo Stick
Pogo Sticks Are Not Just for Kids Anymroe
Pogo sticks have
been around, here and there, for nearly a hundred years. However, they may now
be making a serious comeback for more than just kids' entertainment. In fact,
pogo stick workouts and competition are becoming a new fitness
craze for both adults and kids.
I had the opportunity recently to watch a serious demonstration of how pogo
sticks can be added to individual exercise routines, as well as to fitness
programs in schools, gyms and fitness
clubs. Although pogo sticking isn't for everyone, I came away from the
demonstration convinced it may be a wonderful option for those wanting more
intensity from their workouts and fitness
plans.
First, a little pogo stick history. According to a 1990 article in The Times
Herald Record entitled "Fads Come, Go, But Pogo Sticks," the
first American-made pogo stick was designed by Illinois
baby
furniture and toy maker, George Hansburg. His metal pogo
stick with an enclosed spring was patented in 1919, peaking in popularity in
the 1920s. Although the basic design
has remained the same for decades, there are now different models, sizes and
action mechanisms. But more about that later.
In the recent demonstration class, there were kids
as young as 7 and adults not a day over 40. The class was divided into
preteens, those 13 to 17 and those 18 and over. As one might guess, the middle
teenage group was the largest, with 11 boys ready and determined to master the art
of the pogo stick. The youngest group consisted of three girls and four boys,
while the adult group consisted of seven men. It was apparent that all 25 class
participants were already in good physical shape, but every one of them was
left exhausted by the end of the class.
Although the participants were geared for a good time, the class was not a joke or just for fun. The purpose was
to demonstrate the versatility of the pogo stick and the potential it has in
the pursuit of physical fitness
in schools, fitness centers and individual homes.
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