Working Out Kickboxing Style

Kickboxing, if done properly, can be one of the best forms of exercise because it works the body in all areas including cardio, flexibilty and strength training.

A great plus to kickboxing is that it not only gives you one intense work out, but it provides spiritual and mental benefits, all while decreasing stress levels and in one hour, you can lose up to 400 calories.

During kickboxing training you're taught a variety of kicks, punches, jabs, etc. thus providing you with a full body work out.

DrDrew.com states, "because you're constantly moving around the bag, your heart rate stays elevated, which burns fat and calories. And because the kicks and punches involve bending, twisting, and weight shifting, your 'core' or stabilizing muscles in the torso, back and chest are conditioned."

One popular type of kickboxing is called aerobic or cardiovascular kickboxing, which incorporates elements of boxing, martial arts as well as aerobics to provide a full range of physical conditioning and toning.

Prior to joining a kickboxing class there are some suggestions, by kidshealth.org, that one should consider.

• Be aware of your current fitness level - Kickboxing is a very high impact form of exercise and if you haven't been working out for a while, you need to make sure that your body is in the proper condition to take this on. Prepare yourself by taking an aerobics course and working yourself up to the kickboxing level.
• Do some research before enrolling - Observe or try a class before signing up to see if it's the right form of exercise for you. Speak with the instructor and determine at what pace you could go at so as not to injure yourself.
• Find a class act - "Look for an instructor who has both a high-level belt in martial arts and is certified as a fitness instructor by an organization such as the American Council on Exercise."
  
• Comfort is key - Wear clothes that's loose enough for you to move your arms and legs in all directions. Suggested shoes to wear are cross-trainers, because they allow for side-to-side movements.
  
• Start slowly - Start with low kicks and low impact punches until you learn the proper kickboxing techniques.
  
• Drink up - "Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after your class to quench your thirst and keep yourself hydrated."
• Consult your doctor - It's strongly suggested to see your doctor before beginning any new physical activities, especially since kickboxing involves such high impact movements.
  

Want to join a class in your area? Here are some studios that provide kickboxing courses. Check them out and let me know what you think.

• BodyDesign Personal Training Studio - Coconut Grove (305) 333-3084
  
• Taiseikan Shorinryu Karate and Ju-Jitsu - Miami (305) 205-6484
  
• Karate & Kickboxing Academy - North Miami Beach (305) 935-1855
  
• Lady of America - Deerfield Beach (954) 698-6088
  
• All World Kickboxing Karate - Boca Raton (561) 893-9600
  

My sister, mom and I have taken classes at East West Okinawan Karate studio in Lake Worth, which we all enjoyed very much. This studio provides classes for both children and adults in karate courses as well as self defense.

"They are all very friendly and provided steps that were perfect for my level. I always walked out of there feeling great and having had a full work out. I loved it," stated Gloria Sanchez.

Kick away!