Fitness trends can be fickle. Remember Olivia Newton John and THAT video. While aerobics classes have generally gone the way of neon lycra and leg warmers, the good news is that women have more choice than ever before when it comes to fitness that’s fun, and effective. Women’s boxing is one activity that has been gaining in popularity in recent years. And there are more than a few reasons why.
So what exactly are we talking about?
Women’s boxing is, yes, boxing, but not in the sense of mouthguards and broken noses. Essentially, it’s a social workout with classes made up of maybe 15 to 20 people. An instructor will guide you through a range of pad and sparring routines that you do with a partner. You face each other and while one throws combination punches, the other blocks the punches with padded gloves.
What would a typical class involve?
They may vary, but typically a class might start with a 10 minute warm-up, followed by about 30 minutes of boxing routines, and then a cool-down period. A boxing class will keep you moving the whole time. Don’t expect that blocking for instance, isn’t hard work. A boxing class is a high-intensity workout, that’s also a whole lot of fun.
Don’t I need boxing skills?
That’s the great part. There’s no prior boxing experience needed, in any way, shape or form. The instructor will teach you how to throw – and block – a punch. It’s less about strength, and more about technique. The three main moves are hooks (side punches), jabs (straight punches) and upper cuts (punches that move upwards).
What sort of results can I expect?
Boxing is a high-energy workout that is ideal if you are looking to get fit, lose weight and tone up. If you are wary of ‘bulking up’, don’t worry! Boxing is a high-repetition workout that tones, rather than adds muscle. It’s not just about arm movements either. It’s a full body exercise that is fantastic for the arms, bottom and thighs. The added bonus with boxing – and one reason why women love it – is that it helps you build strength, and increase your confidence.
The other point to note is that many people find boxing easier than running and other ‘movement’ fitness activities. For that reason, it’s a great option for those with excess weight, as well as anyone looking to see results fast. If you take at least two classes a week, in many cases, you can start to see results in as little as four weeks.
Is it safe?
As mentioned, boxing is about technique and certainly not about punching to cause injury. In general, it’s a very safe activity, so long as you follow the general safety precautions that anyone exercising should adhere to.
The key is to make sure you pay attention to learn the correct boxing technique from day one. This will help prevent any strain on the wrists and shoulders. Bear in mind too that in order to prevent injuring your partner, you need to punch straight! That just takes some practice, and focus.
A final word
Women’s boxing is a fantastic workout. The important thing to remember is that the harder you work, the more likely you are to see results. Above all, it’s a great confidence-builder, and a lot of fun. And to see results in any sport or fitness activity, enjoying what you do is key.
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