On With the Jab, Straight, and Hook

Nowadays, an increasing number of people have included boxing training in their fitness regimen. With their hand wraps and gloves snugly donned, they go against the punching bag for deadly combinations of punches. The boxing ring has become a frequent locale for fitness buffs-male and female, young and old alike. And why not? Though it hasn't been long since boxing training classes became popular, its benefits rival those of the mainstream fitness programs. In a boxing class, you can expect a range of activities that cater to improve your cardiovascular resistance and muscle tone. Shadow boxing, done by throwing punches and kicks on air, helps you develop the correct fighting form. Working with the punching bag builds your power. Punch mitt training, done with a partner having padded hands, tests your speed and accuracy in throwing punch combinations. During a partner play, you test your skill in spotting the right moments to hit your partner. In sparring sessions, all the principles of boxing-from throwing powerful punches down to defending yourself properly-are put to application. In all these activities, different forms of aerobic exercises are at play. Thus, you are guaranteed of a full body workout. Adding boxing training to your regular workout program promises many benefits to your well-being. First, your body is strengthened. The repetitive punches tone your arms, and the footwork defines your legs. You also reinforce the muscles in your hips, from where you draw out your power in punching. Your knees, banked on for leverage, also gain power and strength from the exercise. Second, boxing classes condition your heart and lungs. In just an hour of training, you can burn 350 to 500 calories. Throughout the workout, your heart rate is kept at 75 to 85 percent regular beat, which is well within the ideal range when exercising. In addition, you also develop powerful lungs. Controlling your breathing becomes effortless as you box for several rounds of three minutes each. Catching your breath during a strenuous activity gradually becomes a thing in the past. Third, you boost your balance and muscle coordination when you consistently train for boxing. Delivering each punch entails synchronized movements of the arm, shoulder, leg, and hips. Consistent jogging also gives your muscle coordination that extra oomph. Fourth, you enhance your speed and reflexes. You speed improves as you take part in punch mitt and partner play sessions. Your reflexes are kept at optimum condition as you consistently block your partner's punches when you spar. Even your eyes have to be sensitive and quick to see the attempts made by your opponent. Lastly, boxing classes build your self-confidence and help you cope with stress. As you learn about self-defense, you are less likely to feel helpless in bad situations. The satisfaction you get when you deliver punches and kicks at the bag clear you of negative vibes. With all the benefits of boxing training classes, it's no surprise why boxing gloves have recently become a fad. Whoever said boxing was just for brawlers?