Kickboxing dates back to ancient Asia, but it became popular in the United States in the 1970s. A combination of high-impact aerobics paired with common boxing moves, it's a vigorous workout. Women need both aerobic activity and strength training to lose weight and stay healthy, and kickboxing can help fulfill those requirements. Before you register for lessons, ensure that kickboxing is the right type of exercise for you and your current level of fitness.
Benefits
When you register for kickboxing lessons, remember that it is an intense and high-impact activity. When in a kickboxing class, you'll be punching, kicking and jumping as well as working with a heavy bag and other boxing equipment. This makes kickboxing an effective calorie-blasting workout, burning around 650 calories per hour for a 145-pound woman. The constant movement and twisting of the body can also help tone some of your problem areas, including your glutes, hips and belly. Working out with a female instructor in a class for women can remove some of the apprehension and embarrassment you might feel when kickboxing with men.
Disadvantages
While kickboxing can help you burn calories, it's not the right form of exercise for everyone. If you suffer from joint pain, are severely overweight or suffer with exercise-induced asthma, the intensity of a kickboxing lesson could leave you out of breath or in pain. Without the benefit of frequent breaks and time to catch your breath, kickboxing is exercise meant for those who already enjoy a high level of fitness. You can work up to that level by exercising every day until you feel more comfortable with high-intensity exercise.
What to Expect
If you've signed up for kickboxing lessons, prepare yourself for an hour of intense activity. A class usually begins with a five-minute warm-up by stretching each major muscle group and performing some light cardio. Your instructor may incorporate bags and dummies in the workout, depending on her style and method of teaching. You can expect to practice various punching styles, kicks and maneuvers. After 30 to 40 minutes of kickboxing, your instructor will lead you in a cool-down and stretching period.
Tips for Success
Whether it's your first kickboxing class or you're a seasoned kickboxer, you can have a better class by preparing properly. If you're unsure if kickboxing is right for you, ask to observe a class before you register. Watch the moves taught and the intensity level needed before you pay to come to a class. Eat a small, nutritious meal before lessons so you're able to supply high energy throughout the class. Wear comfortable clothes that aren't so loose that they get caught or inhibit movement.
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