Boxing isn’t reserved for the athletically and physically gifted. Even if you think you don’t have enough upper-body strength or proper hand-eye coordination, boxing can be a terrific workout. It focuses on multiple areas of the body and is an effective calorie-burner. You can learn self-defense moves, improve your posture, and even boost your mood. While boxing is a sport, it doesn’t have to be combative. Even older people can benefit from boxing. Despite the creaking joints, especially in the hips and knees, boxing also uses your upper body.
If you’re tired of the same old gym routine, read on and see why you should sign up for a boxing class now.
Core workout
Crunches and pull-ups are great and all, but if you’ve been working hard on your abs, boxing could take you a step further. Since boxing requires you ‘sit’ at a lowered stance, you’ll be working your quads and abs to achieve a low center of gravity. While you’re punching and jabbing, that power comes directly from your core.
Cardio and strength
According to boxing pros, you can burn more calories with 15 minutes of boxing than an hour of being on a treadmill. In fact, boxing has the potential to burn 780 calories an hour or 13 calories per minute, which is similar to running and cycling. You’re also using your entire body for punching and sparring. Cardio exercises keep you in great condition, which is why boxers are in great physical condition even after tough matches. Boxing mixes strength training with cardio too, which is also effective in burning calories and fat. Strength training is essential in boxing not just to keep you toned, but to improve your endurance. And, if you want more sculpted muscles than building more muscles, boxing is also great for such a purpose. It can tone your upper arms, core, chest, hips and calves.
Hand-eye coordination
Boxing is definitely one of those workouts that will train more than your muscles. Improved hand-eye coordination can make you much sharper and more alert. Boxing is an effective way to up this skill, especially if you’re sparring. There’s added pressure if you’re avoiding jabs compared to, for example, aiming your tennis racket to hit the ball.
Rhythm
Boxing is more than just punching when the need calls for it. Your mind and body need to establish a rhythm to keep your moves coordinated, which is why you’ll be doing a lot of repetitive work. You want to be quick, but not lose pace so to keep your focus and endurance going.
Target muscle groups
Boxers are well-toned not just because of their strict regimen. Boxing overall is a workout that targets several muscle groups at once, especially ones that people often tend to miss, like the arms, back, shoulders and core.
Stress relief
What better way to take out your anxieties and worries on a literal punching bag? Boxing is a great way to decompress after a long day for some people who prefer something a little more dynamic and forceful than, say, yoga or swimming or jogging.