Best exercises: 8 fitness benefits of Quadrobics, Internet's new viral running craze

Quadrobics, the viral animal-inspired movement trend, is more than just fun — it delivers surprising fitness and mental health benefits (Image: Canva)

The internet has a knack of making quirkier pastimes viral, and one of the latest to capture people’s attention is Quadrobics. Running and moving on all fours, like the way animals run or crawl, like wolves, cats, and big cats. To the outsider, it may seem a little strange, but for some, quadrobics is no longer just a form of physical expression but also fitness and even identity — especially among the young.

It has taken off across TikTok and Instagram, with fans showing off their own agility, speed or talent at adopting the realistic movements of animals in posts and stories. For a few, quadrobics represents a deeper connection with nature or a sense of belonging to the therian community; for others, it's just a fun and challenging way to work out.

But aside from the aesthetics and viral fame, quadrobics poses surprisingly beneficial health and fitness results. Whether it's strength training, mental well-being, or blasting your favourite tunes, this trend marries both creativity and physical activity.

Also Read: Obesity in children: Beware of the health risks of calorie-dense but nutrient-poor daily diet

Fitness and wellness trainer Marchele D’Souza lists the following health benefits of include quadrobics in your daily exercise routine.

• Full-body workout

It involves the hands, arms, shoulders, abs and legs at the same time, effectively providing a total body workout. The all-fours chugging will tone several different muscle groups.

• Improves core strength

You need to have a strong core to keep your balance on your hands and feet. If done regularly, working out abdominal and back muscles improves posture and supports the spine.

• Increases flexibility

The animal motion begins with stretching and bending, which ultimately increases the flexibility in your hips, shoulders, and spine.

• Boosts cardiovascular fitness

Not to mention the fact that running on all fours is guaranteed to get your heart rate up, making it an intense cardio workout that burns calories and increases endurance.

• Enhances coordination and balance

Coordinating the movements of the hand and the feet positively influences motor coordination. Practitioners gain greater balance and awareness with time.

• Builds mental focus and mindfulness

Quadrobics isn’t simply physical — it requires concentration and controlled breathing. For many enthusiasts, the sphygmomanometer assembly is a calming, meditative exercise that decreases stress.

Also Read: New study finds listening to music can help prevent motion sickness

• Encourages outdoor activity

Hikers are even practicing quadrobics in nature spots such as parks or on open fields, but you didn't hear that here until now!

• Adds coordination and fun to workouts

In contrast to perfunctory gym workouts, quadrobics is playful and even creative. This makes it more palatable as a longer-term physical activity.