Fitness Roadtest: Fusion Fitness

Posted on 16 July, 2014

Whenever I do a new roadtest, one of the questions I ask myself is “would I take my mum here?”

It’s a good test because if the answer is “yes”, then it’s generally somewhere that’s non-intimidating, welcoming, suitable for a variety of fitness levels, and enjoyable.

Fusion Fitness is most definitely such a place.

Located in Jerrabomberra, Fusion Fitness is the brainchild of Diane Percy. Diane began her fitness career when she was living in Montreal, where she trained as a group exercise instructor, personal trainer, and yoga and Pilates teacher. After training clients in her home studio, Diane decided that she needed a bigger space where she could offer more classes, and Fusion Fitness was born.

The studio itself is tucked away in the Jerrabomberra Shopping Village, and is a warm, spacious room with a great community vibe. Formerly a gym, the space is well lit with bamboo flooring. I made the scenic drive one Tuesday evening to sample the Circuit & TRX class with Cherie, and Fusion Yoga with Diane.

I’ve had a little experience with TRX but wasn’t quite sure what to expect. For those of you who are unfamiliar with what TRX is, it’s a system of suspension training that’s basically two ropes hanging from the ceiling that allow you to work against your own body weight. They’re a really versatile tool in training because there’s so many different kinds of exercises that you can do.

The set up for the circuit class involved two TRX’s, plus a bosu ball, swiss balls, free weights, medicine balls, a rope ladder, boxing gloves and pads, and a slide board. You spend two minutes at each station before moving onto the next.

For newbies like myself, this works well because you can keep an eye on what the person in front of you is doing, so that by the time you get there you have some idea of what you’re doing. There are different options at most stations so that you can tailor the exercises to suit your needs or ability. Diane and Cherie were always there to show me easier or more difficult variations of exercises.

The other ladies in the class were fantastic as well – super welcoming and happy to help out. There’s a big range of ages and fitness levels, but everyone looks out for each other and has a laugh. You get the impression that the same ladies are coming every week and genuinely enjoying their time in the studio.

I was definitely puffed by the end of the class. There’s a big focus on strength – particularly core strength, and I had satisfyingly sore muscles for days after, a telltale sign of a good workout.

After a quick stretch and chat we moved on to the Fusion Yoga class. I really enjoyed this class. It’s clear that Diane is an experienced instructor, as she gives easy to follow instructions and knows the limits of her students. Again, there were always easier options for those who are limited in flexibility or suffering an injury.

I also really liked the fact that the class achieved a balance between being serious and light hearted. You still get the more spiritual elements of a good yoga class like beautiful music, light meditation and stillness, but there are still times to have a laugh. Diane corrects people individually, but you don’t get that feeling of being embarrassed or singled out.

One of the parts of the class that I really liked was the partner yoga towards the end. Sitting back to back, we were told to lean forward while our partner stretched back, and then switch positions. This is a great way to bring awareness to your posture, but also gives you a bigger stretch.

I’d recommend Fusion Fitness to ladies of any age and fitness ability. If you’re looking for a warm and positive environment then this is the place for you. If the TRX & Circuit or Yoga Fusion classes don’t sound like your thing, there’s a range of other classes on offer including Heartmoves, Mat Pilates, Total Body Conditioning and YogaFit. You’re certain to find something to suit your needs, be it increased strength or flexibility, or even just a social place to enjoy exercise.

the essentials

What: Fusion Fitness
Where: Shop 6.2/37 Jerrabomberra Parkway, Jerrabomberra.
When: View the class schedule online.
Phone: 0429 145 633
Web: fusionfitness.com.au

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