Power, Confidence and Cardio: The Transformative Benefits of Kickboxing

Kickboxing helps relieve stress by channeling aggression on to a bag, melting away any tension you might be holding on to. By learning valuable self-defense techniques, you’ll develop a sense of security and empowerment, boosting your self-confidence. These skills can be incredibly useful in real-world situations, providing you with the ability to protect yourself if needed.

Kickboxing is also an excellent choice for weight management. It engages multiple muscle groups, resulting in improved strength and muscle tone. Research shows that an average person who weighs 155 pounds can burn 372 calories during just 30 minutes of kickboxing. That makes it an efficient and effective way to burn calories and shed unwanted pounds.

Studies have shown that kickboxing has even helped patients manage their MS (Multiple Sclerosis) symptoms by strengthening and toning targeted muscle groups. Regular aerobic exercise can also improve your joint health with increased synovial fluid production, strengthened muscles around the joints and improved range of motion. This can lead to increased mobility and reduced pain for those suffering from joint issues.

Participating in three one-hour long kickboxing classes per week has also been shown to have great benefits for your heart health and lung function because of the increase in the maximum oxygen uptake (or VO2Max), which is your body’s cardiovascular endurance level, reducing your risk of chronic conditions, such as heart disease. By improving your cardiovascular health, you’ll experience increased energy levels and overall well-being.

Kickboxing classes provide a fun environment, filled with supportive people who often encourage each other, help with accountability and focus, and have a great time while working toward individual goals. The camaraderie and support you’ll find in a kickboxing class can make all the difference in achieving your fitness goals.

Kickboxing enhances your overall physical and mental well-being through the natural release of endorphins. Additionally, the incorporated stretches and core exercises enhance your coordination, flexibility and balance. You may find yourself feeling more relaxed and focused, which benefits all aspects of your life.

Here are a few tips to try at home to prepare for your class:

Proper form is very important in exercise. Practice punching and kicking movements in slow motion before increasing your speed. Slowing down the speed can help prevent injury and improve form. Just a little bit of practice can help you gain confidence for your first class.

Practice staying on the balls of your feet. The balls of your feet will offer more stability and balance as you transition from one movement to another.

Engage your core. This is a good habit to build for most exercise movements. Core engagement helps create force and resistance while punching.

Don’t extend your limbs fully during movements. When you throw a punch or a kick, stop the extension just before full extension for optimal form and to prevent hyperextension injuries.

Most importantly, have fun and let go of any perceptions of what you look like. Proper form and technique come with years of maintaining regular practice. Every one of us starts somewhere. VVBN

By Tawny Yaw

Tawny Yaw is the studio facilities manager at Verde Valley Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.