What is Quadrobics?

   What is Quadrobics?

     Quadrobics is a sport and an art form similar to acrobatics and calisthenics. As an art form, quadrobics has been present throughout history in various forms of artistic dance. Quadrobics is based around mimicking the movements of quadrupedal animals, making it an incredibly interesting and difficult sport to master.       

     This peculiar set of movements has only recently broadened its reach, only becoming an official sport in 2024, and only having a few sets of Guinness world records as of 2012 in Shanghai.  

     Despite its rarity, the muscle-intensive sport has shown up in many categories of dance and other artistic performances, often being seen in contemporary and recreational dances, as well as circus, oddity, and Renaissance performances.

     As a sport, quadrobics is developing quickly, its popularity rising in many communities around the world. Only recently this year (2024) has quadrobics developed enough to be seen in school clubs and have official meetings, and even some companies, such as Woodland Merchants.co, have been participating in the sport, introducing the quadrobics community to competitions and education.

     Mentors have been on the rise, personally training people in the physical activity, with many choosing to go professional and participate in one of quadrobics' many sports, such as cross country, show gaiting, individual sports, track and field, speed racing, acrobatics, agility courses, diving, dancing, and many more.

     This sport was originally only an art form, but ever since the early 2000’s—when the first few records were set, including Kenichi Ito’s—the idea took off until it reached an international level.

      These movements are called “gaits,” similar to horses in almost every way except for the methods of teaching them. While most horses have a variety of gaits, they're usually limited to the three main ones: a walk, a trot, and a canter. Many horse breeds have variations, and some can even be taught new gaits.

     The main difference between humans and horses is the mental capacity and physical ability, which is especially shown through quadrobics’ whopping twelve gaits, all of which are separated by their respective levels. 

     Recreational quadrobics is exactly what its name suggests—anything extra. This half covers sport-specific movements that students wouldn’t otherwise need to know. For example, there's an entire gait that would only be used in one specific sport! The tamp is a gait designed to only ever be performed on a balance beam in show gaiting or occasionally agility courses, meaning it is not necessary for a basic knowledge.

   Quadrobics may be young, but it is quickly developing, and many companies even wish for it to be included in the Olympics. Though it may take a few years, quadrobics will likely develop into something much more than a simple hobby or workout routine. 

     With your help, quadrobics could become much more than it is now, possibly becoming a widely popular industry with its vast potential and growing numbers. Try joining your local community of quadrobists or joining our quadrobist’s Discord server!