Once a specialized sport, kickboxing has quickly become one of the most popular ways to work out for exercisers of all levels. The up-tempo exercise routine strengthens various muscles while also giving kickboxers a rapid cardio workout. Whether you are doing a kickboxing routine alone at home or in a gym class, the workout provides a host of benefits.
History
Kickboxing was introduced in the United States in the early 1970s after some karate students became upset with restricted body contact rules. According to Kickboxing.com, this led to the advent of kickboxing, a type of karatelike practice that allowed full contact kicks and punches. The sport underwent several changes as it progressed to address safety concerns. The effective fitness of kickboxing eventually led to cardio kickboxing in the mid-1990s and has become a popular workout and a commonly offered class at gyms.
Workout
During kickboxing workouts, practitioners do kicks, kick blocks, punches, spins and shadowboxing while moving to upbeat music. Workouts may be performed solo with executed movements at an imaginary opponent or with a partner. Both types, reports an article on the MotleyHealth website, have benefits. Kickboxing techniques are usually mastered alone, but having a partner allows the boxer to feel the results of connecting his or her movements to a physical opponent.
Fitness Benefits
According to "Fitness" magazine, kickboxing workouts primarily target arms, abs, legs, shoulders and butt. The average kickboxer burns close to 500 calories an hour during a kickboxing workout. Muscle definition also comes with repeated workouts and regular kickboxing also improves speed and strength.
Long-Term Effects
Kickboxers are eventually able to develop better overall coordination, not to mention better balance. The fast-paced workout is also a great stress reliever and can help dissolve pent-up anger and frustration. Kickboxing routines have been compared to kicking or hitting a punching bag.
Where to Start
To start your kickboxing workout, first decide if you're rather begin solo or work with a group. Many exercise video websites can help you find a kickboxing video or call your local gym to find a kickboxing class.
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