The popularity of fitness is on the rise all over the world, and people are always looking to gain an edge through the next best workout program. With a multitude of options including traditional gym memberships, home exercise programs and others, it can sometimes be overwhelming when trying to figure where to get started.
After trying many of the programs and options available, ZOVA co-founder Niall McCarthy stumbled upon the idea for his new program after coaching a junior training session. While juggling a soccer ball to music after the workout, McCarthy came to the idea that certain sports fitness moves paired with strategically placed musical rhythms could lead to an incredible workout.
“I was coaching kids between 9 and 11 years old and they all had iPods they would listen to before they trained, I started to ask myself – How can we take that off-field experience and put that on the field, merging the two together in an enjoyable format?” McCarthy said.
After coming up with the idea, McCarthy sought out music and media producer James Tonkin, whom he had met during the pair’s studies at Queensland University of Technology.
Their collaboration initially started with making a fitness regimen aimed at elite and professional soccer players, but they soon realized their routines could have a greater reach and impact the everyday individual. With McCarthy’s previous experience as a semi professional soccer play, the duo was able to incorporate soccer style moves with music to create a unique workout experience.
60,000 participants in Australia, the home of McCarthy and Tonkin have experienced ZOVA. They plan to create ZOVA products tailored to different sports, including basketball and also attempt to expand internationally.
“We’ve prioritized our market research to look at the trends surrounding sports fandom, engagement and participation rates throughout sports globally. If you take a look at the NBA for example, in recent years the fan engagement internationally has boomed,” Tonkin notes.
Tonkin thinks the program will resonate with fitness enthusiasts, the everyday individual and musicians.
“If you have athlete X and musician Y combining to do a ZOVA release, then not only does the product have the quality but the two stars coming together towards the table is going to bring a lot more value, bringing their fan bases together,” Tonkin said.
ZOVA’s philosophy of using music to motivate during workouts is not new, and the founders readily admit that they borrow some principles from Zumba. However, ZOVA uses specific sports and fitness skills set to music rather than simpler dance moves like Zumba.
Currently, ZOVA operates on a Freemium online model for its exercise program. 25 percent of the exercises are provided for free to anyone who wants to use ZOVA for fitness or to instruct their class. Upgrades are also available in order to access the entire site. Click here to visit the site.
Check out ZOVA featured on Australia’s TODAY Show: