FORGET jogging or going to the gym – laughter yoga is the new way to keep yourself healthy.
As part of Piccfit, six weeks of free fitness sessions in Piccadilly Gardens, Robin Graham will hold three laughter workouts to help Mancunians giggle themselves into better shape.
Laughter helps people to be more effective, more productive, more creative, and better communicators
The one-and-a-half-hour sessions are based on the concept of laughing for no other reason than it being good for you.
Mr Graham, a certified laughter yoga trainer, said: "These sessions are not based on jokes, but rather incorporating into gentle exercise a willingness to laugh, plus yogic breathing known as pranayama.
"With a sense of playfulness, this soon leads to real laughter. Laughter helps people to be more effective, more productive, more creative, and better communicators. Laughter brings people together."
But for people who prefer more traditional methods of getting into shape, planned workouts include kettlebells classes, circuits, Zumba and boot camp sessions.
There are over 20 one-hour classes each week, until June 15, taking place at various times which are free for all to attend.
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Steve Dawson, who will be taking the kettlebells classes, said: “This is a great idea and will encourage more people to try a new activity and improve their fitness.”
Alexandra King, Piccadilly Partnership director said: “Piccfit is all about community fitness and making the most of Piccadilly Gardens, the city’s most popular open space. It doesn’t matter what the level of fitness, we just want people to turn up and enjoy themselves. The instructors are all great and are being very generous with their time so this is a great opportunity to take up a new hobby.”
Any equipment required for the workouts will be provided, but changing facilities are not available. There is no need to book in advance.
The laughter yoga sessions will take place on June 18 (1.30pm-3pm), June 19 (12pm-1pm) and June 20 (1.30pm-3pm). For the full timetable visit www.piccfit.com
You can follow Paul on Twitter @paulberentzen
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