Not only is it an incredibly fun sport to practice, kickboxing has so many other health benefits. It’s definitely something you should try before saying that it’s not for you.
Kickboxing has been increasing in popularity in recent years, and in particular, more and more women are lacing up a pair of boxing gloves. So actually what makes kickboxing an amazing workout? Kickboxing is an incredibly effective workout with a myriad of benefits.
Fat burning Kickboxing is a fast-paced, full-body workout. You’ll be constantly moving, throwing punches and kicks and not to mention various bodyweight exercises such as squats, push-ups, burpees that are thrown in as standard in a kickboxing session. In a single one hour session you can burn from 700 calories to 1000 calories (depending how hard you work), meaning you’ll torch plenty of stubborn fat.
Cardio All that punching and kicking will dramatically increase your cardiovascular fitness too. A class usually consists of several 3 minute rounds, meaning enough time to train intensively but also a chance to catch your breath in the breaks. After only a few weeks, you’ll be able to train harder and for longer and see a huge improvement in your recovery time as you make rapid gains.
Strength Kickboxing will also increase your muscular endurance and lean muscle mass too. Punching and kicking of course works muscles in your arms and legs, but using proper technique will activate your core and chest and back muscles too. This will result in a lean and toned physique whilst increasing your strength without looking bulky.
Blow off steam Probably the most popular reason for people (particularly females) joining kickboxing classes. A drink or a food treat was what many people would turn to to deal with the stresses of a hectic day. The thought of running on a treadmill after ‘one of those days’ for many is not exactly an enticing one. However, a huge number are now turning to kickboxing. I mean seriously, what else can be more fun, stress-relieving and good for your health than punching and kicking the hell out of something for an hour. You’re guaranteed to feel infinitely better than when you walked in (which is also true for the treadmill), but the full hour is an extremely enjoyable experience and something you actually look forward to. There’s no need to talk yourself out of going to the bar and into going to the gym. You’re more likely to have to talk yourself into taking a rest day!
Safety If you join a class that involves drilling and sparring then there is a high chance you can get hit. However many gyms offer classes that cut all this stuff out, meaning you get all the fun and effective parts of kickboxing training, without taking any punches yourself. This makes for a highly effective and enjoyable but also completely safe workout.
Self-defense Of course when talking about self-defense, you have to consider who you are defending against. I don’t want to give you the false impression that practicing kickboxing means you can take on anyone. It really depends on the situation. You can’t defend yourself against an experienced kickboxer or fighter after a few sessions. However kickboxing will not only teach you how to react and kick and punch properly, but will also give you confidence. Having the confidence and skills that comes from your training could certainly be enough to react to and deal with a threatening situation.
So give kickboxing a try. If you don’t like it, you’ve lost an hour of your life and know that it’s not for you. However, if you’re in the majority, you’ll awaken your inner beast and never look back. Working out will never be the same again.
If you would like to try a class, KBF offers a special rate for first timers. Message us on social media or email us at info@kbfkickboxingstudio.com to take advantage of this deal.