Cardio Kickboxing

Bored with the weight room? Come try one 

ardio kickboxing -- a combination of aerobics, boxing, and martial arts -- is one of the most popular fitness trends to hit gymnasiums in recent years. These workouts, which are inspired by martial arts, have motivated many people to start a fitness program.

This intense, total-body workout can improve strength, aerobic fitness, flexibility, coordination, and balance.¹ The American Council on Exercise (ACE), which evaluates exercise products and programs, notes that, during a one-hour kickboxing workout, you can burn from 500 to 800 calories, which is up to twice the calories you burn during a one-hour step-aerobics class.

Kickboxing classes can be a great alternative for people who have become bored with weight-room cardiovascular activities, such as brisk walking or jogging on a treadmill. They also provide an option for people who enjoy the "semi-dance" movements found in aerobics or step classes.However, kickboxing-style fitness programs are not necessarily geared toward the beginner. The beginning cardio kickboxer must have above-average endurance, strength, and flexibility. ACE advises exercisers to keep the following things in mind when participating in this aerobic activity¹: