I was very curious when I first heard about boxing as a fitness discipline. I think about two sweaty guys punching each other in a ring, but obviously my knowledge needs some updating. The first sentence of the intriguing article below says it all.
Fact: The next best thing to being a professional boxer is looking like one.
Many fitness gurus want to 'up the ante' when it comes to working out. If you're looking for an exciting exercise program that is part aerobic, part anaerobic and all parts challenge, then a boxing fitness workout will fit the bill. Female or male, it's a great way to get in tip top shape and perform at your very best – whether that means taking charge in the ring, on the track or just feeling good about yourself and your body in general.
If you're stuck in a rut with your exercise routine, boxing is the new fitness regimen and replaces other easy-does-it workouts your friends and co-workers may vouch for. As one of the fastest growing sports in the U.K., boxing fitness works out every part of your body (and then some). Forget spending hours at the gym or running outdoors in the rain. Boxing can be done from your living room, your backyard or even in the privacy of your office by incorporating a circuit training program that works.
Begin with Running/Jumping Rope
Not everyone loves to run, but we do it because it generates the results we want. It improves our stamina and best of all gets those endorphins pumping so we are happier, healthier and motivated to push through our physical limits. Best of all, you burn those unwanted calories you consumed at lunch, all without having to worry about the speed but length of time you run. If you can't remember the last time you skipped rope (were you six years old or seven?) now's the time to begin again. It's a great exercise and builds up stamina for those rounds of boxing that you will soon tackle. The goal? Jump rope for three consecutive minutes. If you have trouble making this time at the beginning, try jumping rope for a minute with a rest period of 60 seconds.
The Fun Stuff – Shadowboxing for Dummies
Have you ever fantasized about learning how to jab your opponent properly? Although it's not that difficult, shadowboxing does take some know-how so you don't accidentally injure yourself. Make a fist as you extend your arms out and most importantly, extend your arm straight out. As you throw, you'll want to be sure to exhale as the famous boxers do. (Want to be just like Sugar Ray Leonard or Ali? You'll notice they always exhaled and/or snorted as they jabbed.) You'll want to concentrate on double and/or triple jabs by alternating hands. First try the right, and then go for a hit from the left. A great workout, you're bound to burn calories and get stronger, more agile and quick on your feet than ever before. Try to get into the habit of practicing this every few days such as Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
The Uppercut
Whether you use a punching gym in your garage, a mirror in your bathroom or a ring to practice on, you'll have fun and a great workout as you perfect your uppercut. Keep in mind the goal here – a total time of 48 minutes with twelve three minute rounds. Although you don't always need an opponent to practice your uppercut, you'll want to practice this hooked punch that comes up underneath properly. Feeling sore the morning after is a good sign, showing you that this circuit training boxing regimen is working and will produce the fast results you need.
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