Tae Bo is a workout the combines martial arts, boxing, calisthenics and dance. That’s where the name comes from—Tae, which means “foot and leg” in Korean and Bo, which is short for boxing. It was developed by Billy Blanks and gained popularity in the 1990s. Organized group Tae Bo classes are available at some fitness facilities or individuals can purchase Tae Bo DVDs to work out at home. Most Tae Bo workouts are an hour long and high-impact, so it is very important that you are at an appropriate fitness skill level before beginning the workouts.
Step 1
Before attempting your first Tae Bo class, develop sufficient strength through strength training and calisthenics by doing full body resistance workouts targeting the major muscle groups of your body. For example, perform squats, lunges, hamstring curls, push-ups, bicep curls, dips to improve muscle strength and endurance.
Step 2
Improve and maintain flexibility with regular stretching or yoga. Do a warm-up before starting a Tae Bo workout to get the muscles groups that will be used ready for the workout—shoulders, quadriceps, back, inner thighs, hamstrings.
Step 3
Practice balance exercises to prevent falls and injuries while performing kicks or balance exercises during the Tae Bo workout. Try standing on one leg for 30 seconds. Then alternate. Make the exercise more challenging by closing your eyes or stand on a pillow or rolled up towel.
Step 4
Begin slowly. If you are working out at home with the DVDs, do the instructional workouts first. Do not start with an advanced workout. Master the proper kicking and punching techniques before you begin a full-length Tae Bo workout. If you are attending a Tae Bo class, ask the instructor for tips on technique and take breaks as needed rather than pushing yourself too far by attempting to keep up with more experienced Tae Bo exercisers.
Step 5
Do not start Tae Bo if you are significantly overweight. It is a high-impact workout that can affect joints. Always remember to consult your doctor before beginning any exercise routine.
Step 6
Hydrate regularly before, during and after the workout.
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