Boxing and kickboxing classes seemed to peak in the early 2000’s, but in truth, interest in these intense classes is as strong today as it ever was. In fact, many fitness studios decided to cater to this crowd, offering mixed martial arts and boxing classes only.
The typical participant in a boxing class tends to be a fitness enthusiast, versus a beginner or someone just beginning an exercise program. Often, one turns to boxing when other forms of exercise become boring, or ineffective. One can only do so much running and lifting, after all.
Aside from the physical condition you can achieve, boxing can improve mental muscle and bolster your self-confidence. Newcomers should not shy away from boxing – most gyms that offer instruction welcome novices – you’ll catch on rather quickly. There are cardiovascular benefits to boxing, obviously, and you develop upper body strength, but the footwork skills and similar balance challenges really round-out what amounts to be a total body workout. And it isn’t all time spent in the ring…there is mitt work, target training, jump roping, and sparring at varied levels of athletic ability, so there is enough variety to hold your attention, and plenty of challenge, for those who are driven by that sort of thing (and really, aren’t we all?)
To find a boxing gym near you, visit Boxing Gyms, which lists boxing gyms all over the country.