If you are already in top physical condition and are ready to challenge your body with a strenuous total-body workout, you may want to sign up for a cardio kickboxing class. Cardio kickboxing classes combine traditional martial arts movements with cardiovascular, or heart healthy, exercise techniques. Although the American Council on Exercise approves cardio kickboxing as a heart healthy exercise, you should talk to your doctor before you take the class to ensure you do not have any physical limitations or medical conditions that could worsen while performing cardio kickboxing.
Identification
Cardio kickboxing, also known as boxing aerobics, combines martial arts, aerobics and boxing into one intense full-body workout. Although cardio kickboxing originates from full-contact fighting, you do not engage in physical contact with another person while performing cardio kickboxing.
Methodology
A cardio kickboxing class begins with a warm-up session that includes exercises such as jumping jacks and push-ups, says ACE. Then, the routine features a series of repetitive punches alternated with hand strikes and kicks, then a combination of all three techniques in varying sequences. Finally, the routine ends with a series of cool-down exercises such as stretches and floor exercises, says ACE.
Benefits
Cardio kickboxing offers a variety of martial arts-based movements, which add variety to your workout, says ACE chief exercise physiologist Richard Cotton. This variety can keep your interest for longer, which in turn can motivate you to continue working out for longer than you would if you just walked or jogged, says Cotton. Additionally, cardio kickboxing's base move, bouncing, keeps your whole body moving throughout the workout, so on average, a 135-lb. person can burn 350 to 450 calories during a typical 50-minute session, says ACE. Finally, cardio kickboxing can be an invaluable stress reliever, as the kicking and punching movements can alleviate feelings of frustration and anger, as well as improve endurance, coordination, balance and flexibility.
Considerations
You should observe a kickboxing class to determine if the exercise program is right for you before you sign up for a class, suggests KidsHealth.org. Cardio kickboxing is a high-impact, high-intensity exercise program that you may not be physically fit enough to participate in at the level it is currently being offered in your area. Therefore, you should speak to the instructor to determine if he is willing to modify the routines to accommodate your skill level before you take the class.
Warning
Do not begin a cardio kickboxing class until you have thoroughly discussed the benefits and risks of the class with your primary care physician. Cardio kickboxing may not be good for you if you have an inflexible back, asthma, tight hamstrings or arthritis, warns WomensFitness.net, or any other medical condition that would prevent you from successfully performing the intense physical workout.
Member Comments