Facts about Tae Bo

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Overview

Tae Bo, an exercise program developed by Billy Blanks, is a combination of boxing, martial arts and dance moves. Blanks has sold more than 85 million instructional DVDs and video tapes on Tae Bo as of 2009.

History

Blanks came up with the idea of Tae Bo in 1976 by accident, while working out to the theme of "Rocky." A short workout of throwing punches and kicking to the beat of the music left him fatigued, and he realized the potential of Tae Bo.

Time Frame

Blanks first began teaching Tae Bo to others in 1982 in Boston and took his program with him to Los Angeles in 1989.

Significance

The first Tae Bo workout tape was sold in 1998.

Benefits

Tae Bo is designed to help people lose weight, increase muscle tone, improve cardiovascular health and improve coordination.

Famous Ties

A number of professional athletes have used Tae Bo, including Wayne Gretzky, Shaquille O'Neal and Magic Johnson.

Fun Fact

Blanks is an accomplished martial artist, having won over 35 gold medals in international competition.

A.G. Moody

About this Author

A.G. Moody is an award-winning journalist, who has covered everything from business and environmental issues to sports. His work has appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and numerous other newspapers and magazines. He graduated from Eastern Washington University and began writing professionally in 2001.

Last updated on: 10/27/09

Article reviewed by WCB

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