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inShape: ‘The Pump’

The Pump is a muscle training class offered at the Western Campus Recreation Centre. Instructor Andrew Lazarito took some time to chat about the class and its benefits.

What does The Pump involve?

The Pump is a muscular endurance class using various forms of resistance like body bars, barbells, dumbbells, bands and stability balls.  Since the class is only 55 minutes, we can’t cover all the muscle groups or use all the equipment, so we switch it up from class to class.

What parts of the body does this class work?

We aim to work the entire body, but we cannot hit all the body parts.  The more popular areas are chest, upper back, lower back, shoulders, biceps, triceps, gluts, quads, hamstrings, calves and abdominal muscles.  We probably cover six to seven parts per class. We believe in focussing on fewer body parts for longer periods of time.  We then switch for the next class.

Who should avoid taking this class?

This is class designed for a “general fitness” population.  I don’t believe in telling anyone to avoid this class, but there are certain groups that need to be aware:

A)      People training for specific sports/elite athletes — our class may be too general to benefit them.

B)      Pregnant Women — Consult with your physician first, then inform the instructor.  The instructor should have the ability to provide options.

C)      Injuries — Consult with your physician first, then inform the instructor.  Class can be taken with a limited range of motion options or limited resistance options.

What would you say to someone is hesitant to try the class?

Being hesitant is a natural feeling.  Many participants start out by observing the class from outside the studio.  Many new participants come with friends or in groups to ease themselves.  Some come in the class and go to the corners of the studio.  Don’t let being hesitant keep you out of the class.  Think about the first time you’ve driven a car.  You’re never truly prepared but you jump in anyway and give it a go.  For any fitness class, just like driving, the health benefits are endless compared to being a little hesitant.

How did you get involved in fitness/teaching The Pump?

Many years ago, my then-girlfriend made a New Year’s resolution to join a health club, and being the good boyfriend I was dragged along. […] We tried various fitness classes, various instructors and became “hooked” on certain classes.  Fast forward a few years, I no longer had the girlfriend but still had the membership, so I continued going to classes.  The local instructors took an interest me and asked if I would consider teaching.  At first I said “no” but was eventually convinced to give it a go.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I believe that “group fitness classes” are the future of fitness.  As time goes on, we have less time to devote to fitness, so we want the “quick in and quick out.”  Also we don’t have the time or knowledge to design our own workouts. With group fitness classes, this is taken care of.  All you have to do is show up, follow along, and you will have the same workout as the person beside you.

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