Buzz
Today, I tried a HIIT kickboxing circuit, spending three minutes at each station on punching, kicking, or boxing-style conditioning exercises. Trust me, those three minutes felt like an eternity.
Kickboxing workouts vary widely. Some involve choreographed routines in an aerobics-style class, while others, like the one I experienced, include using equipment like speed bags. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Expect your hands to be occupied. Midway through, I was given oversized boxing gloves, making it impossible to scratch or wipe sweat. Next time, I’d wear a sweatband or bandana on my forearm. Others recommend wearing snug pants, as adjusting them won’t be an option.
Consider hand wraps. While beginners can skip them, experienced gym-goers use wraps to stabilize and protect their hands during punches. They also absorb sweat inside gloves. If you use them, learn how to wrap them properly.
Different bags serve different purposes. I mistakenly went all out on a double-end bag, only to be corrected by the coach. Light taps for small bags, heavy hits for larger ones. Always ask your instructor about the goal of each exercise.
Mastering the speed bag is rewarding. This small, pivoting bag requires precise timing and rhythm. After some practice, I managed to hit it 10 times in a row. My instructor’s advice matched the tips in this guide.
Familiarize yourself with basic punches (jab, cross, hook, uppercut) and kicks (front, side, roundhouse), but your instructor will guide you on proper form. For a preview, check out Wikipedia’s descriptions of these moves. Fitness kickboxing instructors may not emphasize form as much as martial arts coaches, so if precision and power matter to you, seek out a trainer with a boxing or martial arts background.
It’s your turn to share your experiences and questions. Have you ever taken a fitness kickboxing class? What caught you off guard, and what advice would you give to someone just starting out? If you’re considering trying it, what uncertainties or questions do you still have?
