Gym Class: Indo Board

Want to hone your surfing or snowboarding skills — or just improve your strength and balance while having a good laugh? Try Indo Board.

Created by Florida-born surfer Hunter Joslin, the Indo Board consists of an oval plank of wood that rests precariously atop a small cushion of air on which you can “ride the wave” on land. Hour-long classes consist of modified exercises like squats, push-ups and sit-ups, which you try to perform while trying to not let the board bang against the floor.

“It’s not that far off the ground,” said Mark Santa Maria, the Indo Board instructor at Crunch Fitness in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, where I took the class. “But it’s amazing that as soon as you put one foot on the board, your body has to adapt to find the board’s center.”

Maybe after a few classes I’ll be ready to “hang ten,” or at least feel a little less klutzy walking down the street. To see the class in action, watch the latest Gym Class video, and check out my ratings below.

What is Indo Board? An oval-shaped wooden platform that rests on a small cushion of air. You sit, stand and lean on the board, seeking to maintain your balance while performing modified sit-ups, squats and more.

Who’s it for? Snowboarders and surfers during the off season, or anyone looking for a fun, fast-paced challenge.

What’s the benefit? All of the exercises work the core as you try to maintain your balance, with specific moves targeting the legs, arms, abdominals and buttocks.

Is there a learning curve? Beginners can have fun trying to keep the Indo Board flat above the ground, which can be a challenge, but even the instructor was wobbling.

Where does it hurt? My legs and ankles burned throughout the class, and my core felt tight the next day. My pride was a little hurt each time I lost my balance and had to step off the board.

What should I bring? Sneakers with good traction, and a sense of humor.

Best in-class review: “Man, this is hard,” said a Crunch trainer next to me also taking the class for the first time.

What gym class should I try next? Leave your suggestions below.