Fun Fact: Did you know that the main function of boxing gloves is not to protect sportsmen but to make their hits stronger and more dramatic?
Boxing is a combat sport in which two people, usually wearing protective gloves, throw punches at each other for a predetermined amount of time in a boxing ring. In modern times, boxing has evolved to become an exercise routine that many use to keep fit and healthy.
How beneficial is boxing?
Boxing seems like good cardio
Everyone knows cardio is the way to go if you want to lose copious amounts of weight, however simply sweating on the treadmill can get super repetitive and boring. Boxing could be an alternative. Its workout engages both the upper and lower body, training both your cardiovascular strength and endurance.
Boxing has a potential calorie burn rate of 13 calories a minute. This means a range of 200 - 400 calories being burnt just spending 30 minutes in the ring. The intensive and rigorous pad work exercises will also keep things interesting and you will find this more bearable than good ole' cardio.
Boxing to relieve stress
Engaging in a high intensity boxing workout promotes the release of endorphins, a hormone released in your body which makes you happier. Physically, hitting a punching bag produces a response in your body that helps to relieve tension. Boxing, especially in a group setting is a safe way to release tension or aggression without hurting yourself or others, helping you to work through any negative feelings and effectively overcome them.
Hand-eye coordination
Hand-eye coordination play an important role in a person's gross and fine motor skills. Individuals with good hand-eye coordination tend to have faster reflexes and reaction times and tend to have better physical coordination as a whole.
This is particularly important during aging as coordination and balance become compromised, increasing the risks of falls. Boxing requires you to see and react to a target. With practice, your hand-eye coordination will improve.
What to expect at boxing classes
If you are looking at signing up for a boxing class, here's what to expect. They are usually split into different levels to accommodate boxers with different levels of experience.
Level 1 (beginner) boxing classes start off with the basic combinations, proper boxing stance and basic footwork.
At level 2 (intermediate / advanced), students will learn new technical combinations and do live sparring. Students will develop intermediate and advanced fighting techniques, combining offensive and defensive skills into a single fluid style.
Most boxing classes also usually have their own team that participate in boxing competitions such as the SEA games. These boxing teams do take in students that are proficient and more advanced in boxing.
Why should i do it?
Boxing can be a great alternative for cardio. If you're someone who is looking at losing weight and find cardio extremely difficult and boring, boxing can be a possible substitute for it. Moreover, living in a society which is so fast paced and stressful, boxing can be a good outlet to that pent up stress and frustration! Do consider picking up boxing as your cardio exercise routine to stay physically and mentally fit!
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