Kickboxing is an intense, demanding cardio workout. Cardio kickboxing combines the best of three disciplines: aerobics, martial arts and boxing. When you attend a hour-long kickboxing class, the teacher typically will lead you through a series of choreographed moves. He will start with a warm-up that can include stretching, running in place, jumping jacks and sliding steps. You will then follow the instructor as he demonstrates precise kicks, jabs, punches and knee strides.
Cardiovascular Benefits
During the workout you are constantly in motion. The session will keep you bouncing, kicking and punching the entire time. Because kickboxing raises your heart rate, your heart becomes stronger and more efficient. This reduces your risks of certain diseases, such as stroke, heart attack and some cancers.
An additional benefit to this intense workout is a decrease in your blood pressure and resting pulse. Improved endurance, better bone density and stamina are additional cardiovascular benefits of kickboxing. Kickboxing can also "reduce "bad" cholesterol levels in the blood---the low-density lipoprotein, or LDL level---as well as total cholesterol, and can raise the "good" cholesterol---the high-density lipoprotein level, or HDL.
Lose Weight and Get Stronger Muscles
When you participate in a kickboxing workout you are working your upper body, lower body and your core muscles. By concentrating on proper form and speed, every jab, punch, block and kick you do strengthens your muscles. You will begin to see muscle definition in your arms and legs, increase your strength and build lean muscle mass.
Cardio kickboxing will help you achieve your weight-loss goals. The American Council of Exercise estimates that you can burn 350 to 450 calories per hour of kickboxing. If you want to lose weight, combine kickboxing with a reduction in your caloric intake.
Improve Your Flexibility and Balance
Improve your flexibility and balance by performing kickboxing moves. If you are a beginning kickboxer, expect to feel off-balance at first. Over time, your balance will improve and the moves will become easier. As you stretch your arms and legs forward, to the side and behind you, your flexibility will improve as well. Improving your flexibility and balance benefits you by decreasing your risk of injury, reducing muscle soreness and helping your posture.
Stress Management
It may seem odd that a physically demanding exercise can reduce stress, but it does. According to KidsHealth.org, "Kickboxing also reduces and relieves stress. Its rigorous workout---controlled punching and kicking movements carried out with the discipline and skills required for martial arts---can do wonders for feelings of frustration and anger." Intense exercise serves as a release for your emotions and you will likely find yourself more relaxed after a kickboxing session.
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