At first glance, the Pound Rockout class at the UFC Gym in Kakaako looks pretty silly, with a group of people hopping around and waving neon-green drumsticks. But once you join in and start pounding the ground, you’ll release your inner drummer — and get your heart rate up and tone your body too.

The Pound workout was developed by Kirsten Potenza and Cristina Peerenboom, two drummers and fitness enthusiasts from California. The class blends cardio, Pilates, isometric (resistance) and plyometric (jump training) poses with constant simulated drumming using Ripstix, which are weighted drumsticks. The results are supposed to come from high-energy, upper-body movement that requires balance adjustments throughout the routine.

Many of the drills focus on larger muscle groups, with the squats, lunges and leg lifts typically found in other workouts. The difference is that you are drumming on the ground while performing the moves in time to rock music.

The swift up-and-down movements require balance and can be challenging. One of the drills, for example, involves pounding the ground while remaining in a low squat position. Your legs and glutes may be screaming by the end of class, and mine were certainly talking to me the next day.

Modifications can be made for a lower-impact workout that doesn’t require as much jumping or intense stretching.

The 50-minute session I attended was led by Dawn Kattengell, who yelled a lot and emphasized good form while energizing the class. (A Friday morning class comprises a 25-minute session followed by 25 minutes of stretching.) As with any entertaining workout, the time flies by.

Gym member Debi Balmilero, 55, said the class provides both a good workout and some stress relief.

“It lets me pound on something without hurting anyone,” she said. “It gives me a little release of pent-up aggression and irritation.”

The coordination of drumming movements with leg exercises makes for a lot to remember, but once you go through a few songs the drumming patterns become a little easier to follow. You may find yourself facing the wrong direction, but just keep moving and eventually you’ll be back with the pack.

Sitting on the floor, leaning back and swiveling side to side while hitting the ground with the Ripstix provided a good core workout. During the seated exercises, I used a rolled-up yoga mat to sit on because it allowed me to move more freely. A rolled-up beach towel can substitute.

Other challenging moves include holding squats and hitting the floor in front of and behind your feet. Another had us holding a lunge while hitting the floor on the right and left sides. If reaching the ground is too difficult or you are in danger of losing your balance or form, “air drumming” is always an option.

The Pound Rockout class is open to UFC Gym members only, but the monthly fitness fees are reasonably priced. Call 672-2655 for details.

"Tryouts" features exercise and wellness classes and other fitness activities. Reach Nancy Arcayna at narcayna@staradvertiser.com or call 529-4808.