February 11th, 2010 §
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.
November 22nd, 2009 §
One of the latest trends in fitness promises to build strength, endurance, core stability and whole-body sculpting. Created by a former Navy Seal, suspension training utilizes a system of adjustable straps constructed of soft, but strong nylon webbing. Exercises utilize body weight, body position and gravity to make movements more challenging. The TRX® is so effective, it is being used by the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL and the NCAA – but don’t be too intimidated, this type of training isn’t limited to sports-minded men. TRX® training is ideal for women of all ages and fitness abilities. Exercises can be as simple, or as challenging, as you want them to be.
How to learn: You can learn how to use the TRX at home using their instructional DVDs, but taking a class is preferable for many people. Certified TRX instructors can tweak your form and teach you the proper progressions when you are ready to advance to more difficult exercises. TRX classes are also a lot of fun! Most of the larger cities have gyms or studios that offer TRX classes.
Chicago
Know No Limits
6125 N. Clark St, Chicago, 60660
(773) 334-4728
TRX classes are offered on Tues, Weds, and Thurs. Check their ;schedulelt for class times.
San Francisco
TRX Training Center
1650 Pacific Ave (Nob Hill area), 94109
(415) 655-4797
Try the half-hour “Getting Started” class to learn the ropes, then move on to one of the more challenging formats, such as Circuit Training or Bootcamp. Classes are offered Monday-Saturday.
How to buy: You can purchase a kit for home or outdoor use from Fitness Anywhere The complete “gym in a bag” costs $150.
November 13th, 2009 §
Martial arts isn’t just for defending yourself in a dark alley, although having the skills necessary to do so is always handy. One such method for protecting yourself is called Krav Maga, meaning “close combat” in Hebrew. Krav Maga refers to combat involving physical contact rather than the use of weapons. It was developed in Hungary and Czechoslovakia in the 1930s to protect the Jewish community from Nazi militia. The original principles are used today to teach basic self-defense skills. Bonus: Regular practice will strengthen your entire body (i.e, whoop you into fighting shape).
Ohio Krav Maga & Fitness (located in Hilliard and Gahanna), is the midwest’s largest Krav Maga gym. There slogan is, “No Whining!” And I believe they mean it.
In addition to Krav Maga, the gym offers Muay Thai, Boxing, Crossfit, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts, and Yoga. For a complete schedule, visit their website.
There are over 240 “official” Krav Maga training centers in the Unitied States. To find a Krav Maga training center near you, visit Krav Maga Worldwide.
The Krav Maga Federation’s website also lets you search for events and federation schools. The site also has information about the history of Krav Maga and a discussion forum.