In “BBX Heroes” we shine the spotlight on some of our awesome BBXers. Each time we ask the same set of 10 questions and let you tell everyone about your health and fitness journey in your own words, so that you can hopefully inspire others who may be struggling to deal with their own health and wellbeing issues, or who may just need a little bit of extra motivation as they work towards their own goals. Below, we are delighted to feature another BBX Hero – another of our all-round action girls, the amazing Caroline Hope!
I have never experienced a physical workout like this before: no gym session has made me consume 1.5 litres of water in an hour or sweat like this. Bhangra engages the entire body in a continuous sequence of compound moves, so you’ll need to bring a towel! Friends have commented that I look leaner and fitter, and my stamina has increased significantly. You can take it very gently in the classes, or really go for it, so it’s suitable for all fitness levels. It’s possible to burn over 600 calories in an hour, which seems ridiculous for something that’s so much fun. I’ve certainly never laughed like this on a treadmill!
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Q: When did you start with Bhangra Blaze/BBX?
I started this summer (July 2021) – so I’m a newbie – and I’m already addicted!Q: Why did you join the class/platform?
I love Bhangra music, and my colleagues at Jaguar Land Rover taught me a few moves at office parties. It originated as a celebratory dance in the Punjab and this spirit of joy and exuberance makes it completely irresistible – when Bhangra was played at JLR discos, everyone in the room started moving, no matter their ethnicity or their country of origin. When I discovered BBX classes in my local area, I was ecstatic.Q: How often do you do BBX Bhangra workouts?
At least three times a week: a Tuesday live class, plus a virtual session and one on-demand class.Q: What difference has BBX made to you physically?
I have never experienced a physical workout like this before: no gym session has made me consume 1.5 litres of water in an hour or sweat like this. Bhangra engages the entire body in a continuous sequence of compound moves, so you’ll need to bring a towel! Friends have commented that I look leaner and fitter, and my stamina has increased significantly. You can take it very gently in the classes, or really go for it, so it’s suitable for all fitness levels. It’s possible to burn over 600 calories in an hour, which seems ridiculous for something that’s so much fun. I’ve certainly never laughed like this on a treadmill!
Q: What difference has BBX made to you mentally?
This has been the biggest surprise for me and has made the greatest difference. I’ve felt so much happier since I joined BBX; I leave Bally’s Tuesday night class on a high and I use the BBX Hub to maintain this feeling. For me, Bhangra is a moving meditation – intensely physical and grounding – which makes me feel calm, peaceful and optimistic. It’s natural bhangra Prozac!Q: What other types of exercise do you as well as the BBX workouts?
I love hiking and mountaineering, horse riding, yoga and aerial yoga, plus I train three times a week with weights and tabata.Q: Which is best – BBX On-demand workouts, Virtual Classes or Live Classes? …and why?
Nothing compares to live classes, which are a totally immersive experience, but I love the flexibility and portability of the virtual and on-demand classes.Q: What do you like most about being a BBXer?
Not only is she an exceptional teacher, Bally also runs social and local community events with BBX, and she’s in touch with her groups regularly on WhatsApp. It’s far more than an exercise class: there’s a feeling of joining a growing BBX family. Meeting new people and supporting each other has been amazing, and I’m proud to be part of something so positive.
