In April, I read an article entitled, “The Benefits of
Cardio Kickboxing Workout” from AFPA~ American Fitness Professionals and
Associates website.
As this was my first article summary, I thought the subject
was pertinent since I’d like to be able to know and verbalize the benefits of
cardio kickboxing to clients. I learned
that kickboxing is a total body workout and, unlike exercises that target one
specific area, kickboxing will change the shape of your body. If you target only specific areas, there is
still fat underneath newly developed muscle which may increase a person’s size. For example, targeting abdominals with
sit-ups and other ab-specific exercises will develop muscle. However, waist size can increase without a
cardio component to burn the fat from the area. Another benefit of kickboxing is that it is
an efficient use of work out time. It
incorporates the five main areas of fitness; cardio respiratory, muscular
strength, muscular endurance, body composition, and flexibility. Third, cardio kickboxing teaches valuable
self-defense skills. Unlike kicking or
punching the air, kickboxing utilizes physical feedback and techniques learned
can actually be used in a self-defense situation.
Using the ‘bag’ creates resistance which is
more aligned with real fighting and also strengthens muscles. Having a physical target also provides
specific focus. Cardio kickboxing
increases self-confidence, the way a person postures himself, and relieves
stress. It’s a workout that increases
release of endorphins which can alleviate pain and even depression. It’s a positive way to release negative
feelings and decrease aggression.
Kickboxing leaves a person calmer post-workout. Cardio kickboxing is also an exercise that
increases energy levels. A person can
work at his or her own pace and skill level.
It leads to greater self-discipline. .
It’s also great for athletes on or off-season as well as all age
groups. Since kickboxing is an
individual workout in a group setting, students can advance their techniques
from basic while others work at their own pace.
Techniques are also easily modified for injured or clients with
difficulties. Lastly, cardio kickboxing is fun~ the music is
motivating and appeals to most interest levels..
In summary, I learned some of the less well known facts
about cardio kickboxing’s benefits. I
previously knew how I personally benefit~ it’s a great stress release, all over
workout, and fun! I never considered the self-defense benefits or that it is an efficient use of workout time. Instead of spending time just running or
lifting weights, cardio kickboxing incorporates all facets of exercise. Since I
enjoy “changing it up”, I think kickboxing does that. I’ve noticed that improvements in my own
cardio, flexibility and strength. I personally feel those results and enjoy
better sleep. I enjoy that while it is
an individual achievement, there is a social component. Group class dynamics has always been a
motivation for me. My favorite line in
the article, “The most demure feminine women turn into very scrappy fighting
machines with controlled aggression.” I
think it’s an empowering fitness experience for everyone. I personally would like to think of myself as
a “very scrappy fighting machine.”
Written By Kerry Caron Kick Boxing Instructor
Choe's
HapKiDo Karate of Flowery Branch
7380 Spout Springs Rd
Flowery Branch, Braselton, Buford, Hamilton Mill 30542
(770) 967-1700
Flowery Branch, Braselton, Buford, Hamilton Mill 30542
(770) 967-1700