You’ve probably heard about it from your ClassPass-obsessed friend, but if you’ve never taken boxing classes before, you might want to start. Boxing is a challenging yet rewarding workout because it incorporates both cardio and strength training, and it offers a multitude of benefits.
Not sure if you’re ready to give boxing a chance? The five health benefits below might change your mind.
Increases heart rate and blood flow
Boxing is an aerobic exercise, which puts more of a demand on your cardiovascular system. As you breathe in more oxygen, there’s an increase in blood flow to your muscles and lungs that releases the body’s natural painkillers, endorphins. Cardio workouts like boxing can also help you lose weight and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and chronic illness.
If you’re a little nervous about the intensity of a boxing class, start with this tutorial on FabFitFunTV, which introduces all the basic movements of boxing you should know. Want access to FabFitFunTV? Sign up today if you’re not a member yet!
Builds muscle
Mix punching, kicking, jabbing, squatting, and jumping, and you’ve got yourself a full-body workout. As you engage your upper body, lower body, and core, it requires both strength and speed that helps build muscles. You can start strengthening muscles by trying this beginner’s combo and movements workout that works your entire body without lifting a single weight.
Burns fat
Boxing is a high-calorie burning workout that leads to weight loss. The combination of sweat-drenched cardio and strength-training moves helps burn stored calories and leads to improved overall body composition. If you’re looking to achieve a lean yet strong physique, this beginner’s conditioning class is perfect for you.
Better hand-eye coordination
At first, it may seem impossible to hit a speed bag or to spar with a partner, but the more you practice, the better your hand-eye coordination becomes. This increases reaction time, reflexes, and overall coordination, and it’s especially important as you age because hand-eye coordination can greatly reduce the risk of falls and injury. It can even lead to better learning abilities and social communication.
Reduces stress
Aerobic activity, like boxing, is known to decrease levels of stress, stabilize and elevate mood, serve as a form of meditation, improve sleep, and boost self-esteem. Plus, punching the bag and releasing negative energy in a healthy environment just feels good.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
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