When you think of kickboxing, does every martial arts movie you’ve ever seen come to mind? Yeah, me. But actually, that’s a limited viewpoint because lots of us normals enjoy kicking as a way to build body strength, stamina and fitness. Personally, I’m always amazed when I see someone kick way over their head because I know I can’t do it – at least in my current state of fitness.
What Is Kickboxing, Anyway?
Kickboxing is a form of martial arts. It involves both kicking and punching. It was originally created as a form of martial arts. However, the self-defense and fitness community have adopted it as well.
In a kickboxing class youll see men and women of all ages and fitness levels. People wear small protective gloves. They also often wear padded shin guards that extend to cover the top of your foot. This is to protect the skin when you kick a hanging bag.
During a kickboxing class the instructor will often wear a headset. This is so their instructions can be heard over the music. Like any aerobic or fitness class, kickboxing is set to motivating and heart-pumping music. Each class member will get their own bag. Theyll either be hanging from the ceiling or be a standing bag. The bags are used to kick and punch.
After a warm up that may consist of sit-ups and push-ups, the instructor will start calling out sequences. As the music intensifies and your heart rate increases, the sequences will become faster and more difficult. Youll be combining kicking and punching for a great workout.
Rest assured that when youve finished a kickboxing class, every muscle in your body, including your heart and lungs, will feel worked. Its a good, albeit exhausting, feeling.
Start Kickboxing
There are likely several kickboxing classes in your community. Some will be held at martial arts schools. Others will be at your local gym or community center. Find a class that fits your personality. The classes generally only vary by the instructors personality and the class attendants. If you arent looking for a serious martial arts lesson but do want a workout, you may consider starting with a class at your local gym.
Feel free to ask to watch a class before you start. That way youll get a good understanding of the instructors style.
There is some special equipment for a kickboxing class. Youll want to wear fingerless boxing gloves. These generally cost between twenty and thirty dollars. They protect the back of your hand and your knuckles from abrasion. Youll also want to wear the protective shin and foot guards. Again these cost around twenty to thirty dollars. Otherwise, a pair of comfortable shoes and basic workout wear is all you need.
Kickboxing is a great way to work your entire body. Its also fun and an effective stress reliever. If youre looking for a class that does it all – strengthens, tones and offers cardio benefits – check out a kickboxing class today.
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