Underlying every action in Nia is the goal to improve mobility and stability. One 62-year-old woman, Susan Berger, started coming to classes a few months after knee replacement surgery and has built up the muscle in her quads while reducing scar tissue, all without exerting much impact. Another woman comes to boost her self-esteem. Ms. Hicks says Nia can be associated with sexual benefits because people learn to move their pelvic area with more confidence. “We want people to be actively learning about themselves in a safe way … and be alive in terms of sensation, [versus] a lot of other classes that want you to go for burn,” she says.
She insists that unlike conventional aerobics classes, Nia must be tried to be appreciated. “People say it’s like the experience of eating chocolate; there’s no way to describe chocolate until you eat it.”
Anyone watching a class could be forgiven for having doubts, especially because the moves seem so theatrical at times. But comparing Nia to chocolate is no stretch. Toward the end of one class at the Joy of Dance, a window refracted the late-day sun into a rainbow on the floor. A few women paused to marvel at the precious – and perhaps even symbolic – site. Then everyone dispersed, less like butterflies than buzzed-up, happy bees.
The down low of Nia
The post-workout high feels as good as a visit to the shrink
What is it? A low-impact workout that draws from modern dance, martial arts and healing arts. Expect to channel Celtic, African and Latin moves, sometimes all in a single class.
How hard is it? Nia is nowhere near as intense or choreographed as the highly popular Zumba workout although sweating is not uncommon. Surrendering to the body’s innate desire to move can be more challenging than three sets of push-ups.
What does it work? The whole body, although areas such as the spine, pelvis and hip flexors seem to get special attention. All steps can be modified to reduce or increase difficulty. Post-workout high feels as good as a visit to the shrink.
What are classes like? Two words: Hippie aerobics. Done barefoot and set to a hodgepodge of spirited world music tracks, the hour-long sessions are designed to release all inhibitions.
Who’s taking it? Not men, that’s for sure (although there’s no reason why they can’t). Women in their late 20s through 60s – with varying degrees of fitness and even more varied outfits (spotted: track suits, gingham shirts, flared pants, jewelled belts) – turn up and let loose.
Sign me up! Drop-in classes typically cost $15. For more information visit www.niac.ca for classes across Canada.
