Pound, known for its drumbeat-driven cardio sessions – has revealed a new iteration

of its programme called Pound Unplugged.

Designed to improve users’ mental wellbeing, Pound Unplugged will launch at Crunch Fitness from 19 September, and be rolled out to additional fitness partners around the world in 2023.

The session comprises 20 minutes of high-intensity training – using Ripstix, exercise drumsticks played in time with music to boost the secretion of neurochemicals. This drumming session is followed by ten minutes of breathing, stretching, mindfulness and meditation.

Pound joins a growing number of fitness providers that have evolved to meet consumers’ shifting mental and physical wellbeing needs since the start of the pandemic. Recognising the mental-health crisis, Pound’s founder and CEO, Kirsten Potenza, felt inspired to create workouts that 'meets class-goers where they’re at – mentally, physically and emotionally'.

“The class is a deeply intentional rhythmic journey to promote the health and fitness of the whole person,” said Potenza. “Unplugged is a natural evolution for Pound since the cognitive benefits of music, drumming and exercise have always been at our core, as well as our dedication to community, mental wellness, and self-acceptance.”

The new programme was devised by members of Pound Unplugged’s advisory board: London-based fitness educator and therapist Jess McKee; Marc Santa Maria, vice president of group fitness for Crunch Signature; and breathwork expert (also founder of Myobility) Michelle Opperman.

“Pound Unplugged embodies the innovative, fun and empowering nature of Crunch’s group fitness class offerings,” said Santa Maria. “It’s a great feeling to be able to offer a class designed specifically for mental health to our customers who value holistic wellness and impactful workouts.”

Before the pandemic, HCM spoke to Potenza about Pound’s ethos and she explained the workout is built around three pillars, “the mind, body and your inner rockstar”.

“In the modern world, it’s easy to hide behind technology and it’s getting harder and harder to connect with people,” said Potenza in an exclusive interview. “Group fitness has become one of the best ways to congregate as human beings and connect in a unique way.”

Pound now offers three different workouts: Rockout, Unplugged and Generation Pound (a youth programme). More than 30,000 trainers incorporate Pound into their offering across 107 countries.

It is supported by Pound’s instructor platform The Label, which includes choreography, techniques and continuing education. One-day Pound Unplugged training – both virtual and in-person – can be booked through the website.