It’s Wednesday and time for the letter K. For me, this has to mean kickboxing.  I wanted to introduce you to something that you may not have thought about, to give you a new activity to try. After all, isn’t trying something new one of the ways to keep our mental acuity sharp as we age?

I take a one hour class every Wednesday, and I look forward to it each week. If I enjoy it so much, you might wonder why I don’t do it more than just once a week. Well, I also am committed to my rock climbing training program, which has specific workouts three times a week for 2 hours per session, plus I climb on the off days. Add in yoga and hiking and this old body needs a break from time to time 😃 I also love the trainer that teaches only the Wednesday class!

Kickboxing or boxing, may seem intimidating but here are some reasons to consider adding in a class either at a gym, or a home workout.

The calorie burn 🔥 

This is an intense, one hour workout that combines balance, coordination, flexibility, endurance, power and strength. You will be jumping rope, shadow boxing, circuit training and performing conditioning drills. The average 125lb  person will burn anywhere from 750-900 calories!

It’s a total body workout 🏋🏻‍♀️ 

The movements necessary to punch, jab, kick and slip a punch require a coordinated effort from several muscle groups, all  working in unison. You will work your arms, core, legs, glutes and back. Working muscles from different angels is the most efficient way to build strength. And no ladies, you will not bulk up! You will tone and lengthen the muscle fibers.

This is also a cardio workout🏃‍♀️

The intensity level is high, as you raise your heart rate and maintain that throughout the entire workout. Of course, you will need to start slowly and build that endurance, just like any other sport. Eventually, you will be able to keep moving during the complete hour. Cardio, not only torches calories, it will also help to remove stubborn abdomninal fat that has been linked to so many health complications.

Kickboxing can improve your overall mood😁

Kickboxing is an excellent stress reliever. Participants report better quality of sleep, better mental clarity and lower stress levels throughout the day. Both men and women often site learning basic defense skills as a source of self confidence, and better self esteem.

You don’t have to join a pricey gym

I do love my gym and I appreciate my trainer and fellow students. You really get to know someone when trying to kick them in the head!😜 But, I will only have access to this gym when I am in Tucson. When I am in Seattle, I will be doing the Core de Force program from Beachbody on Demand. There are several levels and skill sets to choose from. I also recommend this for anyone who would like to start slower, or learn some basics before making the monetary commitment. 

Is there a sport or activity you have always wanted to try, but just haven’t pulled the trigger? Go for it 😊

References:

http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-you/fitness/benefits-of-kickboxing-for-women/view-all/

https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/a-z/kickboxing-benefits

https://www.livestrong.com/article/155221-kickboxing-belts-gradings/