Body Pump 77 is here! This launch spans the second quarter of this year at certified Les Mills gyms. The sport, which targets all muscle areas in an hour, is the oldest class in the book. The question is: is this release the perfect start to summer? Or will it cast a shadow on the pumpers all spring long?
Warm Up: Commander – Spacegliderz
Song 1 definitely inspires me and puts me in the moment. The pacing is especially satisfying as the instructor’s words guide us through all the movements of the class. The choreography is a little tougher (compared to 76) but it definitely warms up and introduces BodyPump 77 in the perfect way.
Squats: It’s My Life – Swade
This mixed Bon Jovi song fits right in with the class. The choreography fits the song well but is not surprising in any way. The low 4s and single squats carry over from the BodyPump 76, and there’s no sting in the tail. So these squats are a little (just a little!) easier than last time. But I love the song, so it’s okay.
Chest: DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love – Usher ft. pitbull
The danger Les Mills faces when he implements a Top 40 song is that it will fade by the time the workout hits gyms around the world, this time that’s not the case. This rocking song makes me tap my feet all the time and makes chest training one of my favorites. The movements are the same as those found in U2’s beautiful day, there are no surprises. Instead, the simple movements are repeated until the end of the song with a single rest, a very effective workout.
Back: Hold Me Tonight – Manian
Song 4 is the first tune that clearly breaks with the formula established in BodyPump 76. The choreography includes a new move that requires the pumpers to push the weights above the shoulder line 3 times, with 4 repetitions. (Dammit, I forgot the buzz name Les Mills gave it…)
Most people will consider this song more difficult compared to the previous one, but for me personally, it’s not that difficult. Also consider that technique is very important, do it incorrectly and you won’t aim at the back at all!
Triceps: I like it – Tokyo Haze
I hate this song! His original (by Enrique Iglesias) does not inspire anything and the rhythm lacks strength. The movements are more repetitive than last time and have the same difficulty. Simple movements with the bar, including presses and overloads, are repeated until the end.
Biceps: Diamond Eyes (boom-lay boom-lay boom) – Shinedown
This song is hard! The main combo includes 8(!) half and 4 full bicep curls. That is a very hard combo and it squeezes everything on the biceps. A break is present in the middle and some easy moves make for the perfect recovery towards the final set that includes 8 half and 8 full curls. The first couple times I did this song my arms were sore the next day, so this workout pays dividends. I don’t like music though.
Lunges: Only Girl in the World – Nick Skitz vs. DJ Lotus
BodyPump 77 includes dynamic lunges, static lunges, and finishing squats. The song is especially aimed at the girls in the class, which I think are the majority. Dynamic lunges are great fun and fit well with the music; A great way to practice technique and stability. The kicker is two sets of 8 lower squats; definitely a full handful.
Shoulder: Ti Sento – Scooter
In difficulty, this song compares to BodyPump’s previous release. Begin with a set of push-ups followed by walking (arms straight). The song ticks off four sets, accompanied by quick breaks in between. Overall, it feels satisfying and sits well with the music. By the time the opera starts, you’ll feel like a superhero flying around the suburbs looking for crime.
Abs: We don’t speak American – Yolanda be cool vs DCUP
Remember when I said that the delay between production and release can sometimes dampen the enthusiasm for a popular song? Well, BodyPump 77 song 9 seems to be an example of that statement. I personally love it and think the choreography fits well, but some people I’ve talked to find the song “last year” and absolutely hate it. The upbeat song (no discussion here!) features two main moves: the hover and the squat. The abs are definitely on fire after this one.
Cooldown: One Last Chance – Childry
A simple indie pop song always works for me and works again. It’s very similar to BodyPump’s (Kris Allen) previous chill out song and this could very well set a trend for it.
BodyPump 77 carries over most of the music genres and moves found in last quarter’s release. Some songs are great (chest, abs) while others are a step down from the previous output (triceps). Overall, the launch is decent, but nothing special.
Rating: 7/10 – A decent release but not innovative by any means.
