WORK OUT-KICK BOXING

KICK BOXING


Kick boxing Basics


Kickboxing WorkoutPow! Bam! Zonk!: Kick boxing provides a workout that packs a punch, a kick and a lot of health and fitness benefits.

Here's a combination of boxing, martial arts and aerobics. You get a full-body workout that increases balance, strength, flexibility and endurance.

Kick boxing classes are less formal than traditional martial arts classes. Moves include kicks and punches - some classes also include jumping rope, punching a heavy bag or a series of shadowboxing drills.

For those who get their kicks from kicking up their heels in class and not from getting kicked, cardio kick boxing programs provide a safer alternative .

Upside of Kick boxing

*
What could be better than punching or kicking something to relieve stress?

*
Kickboxing provides a great head-to-toe cardio and calorie-burning workout.

*
You'll also learn some self-defense, balance, coordination, speed and agility.

*
And hey, it's fun.

Downside of Kick boxing

*
Injuries are fairly common, especially for beginners who haven't yet learned the proper delivery of quick punches and kicks.

*
Many beginning exercisers will find this type of workout too strenuous.

*
If you don't click with the instructor or classmates, the fun factor can fizzle fast.


Is Kick boxing for You?

This chart can help you see how kick boxing fits your goals and lifestyle concerns.


Body Parts Worked : Just about everything - skeletal muscles and bones as well as cardiovascular system.
Calories Burned : About 680 an hour for a 150-pound person, 907 for a 200-pound person.
Gear : A good cross-training, basketball or aerobic shoe, wraps for your hands (to prevent injury), boxing gloves (if the class calls for them), cup or pelvic protector, and lots and lots of H20.
Instruction/Facilities : Look for kickboxing classes at your gym or local martial arts studio. Videos are also a great option. Some boxing instructors do not have standard aerobic certifications, but if they do it's a plus.
Time :A typical class lasts from 45 to 60 minutes. You can kickbox up to three times a week, more often if you're super fit.
Schedule/Flexibility : Depends on the facility's offerings but can usually fit a schedule. The video option works any time you can fit it in.


Kick boxing Tips

*
The classic beginner mistake is not initiating movements from the core of the body, which can be pretty joint-jarring until you get it right.

*
Another no-no: Don't lock your joints when throwing kicks or punches.

*
Take care not to overextend kicks. Beginners should avoid high kicks until flexibility increases .

*
Avoid exercising beyond your fatigue level.