Getting The Kick: Aerobic Kickboxing

There are different types and routines in aerobics.  And one of them is aerobic kickboxing.  Aerobic kickboxing should not be confused with kickboxing which is a self-defense technique.  With aerobic kickboxing, which is also called cardio kickboxing, you could lose about 800 calories within an hour.  Aside from losing weight, cardio kickboxing is also great in building lower and upper body strength.

Aerobic kickboxing starts just like any other kind of aerobic exercise, with a five to ten minutes of warm-up. After that, it would be the kicking and punching which would end up with another five minute cool-down.  This aerobic exercise combines martial-arts, self-defense, boxing and music. A person who is performing this would be able to learn the basics of these parts. For example, basic boxing stance is taught.  Punches like jabs and hooks, kicks like side kicks are taught.

Kickboxing is thought to have originated from Muay Thai. But aside from the Thai boxing influences, aerobic kickboxing also uses karate skills to develop flexibility, strength and endurance in one cardiovascular exercise. Those who practice aerobic kickboxing would also testify that it was able to help them build their self-confidence, self-esteem, self-control and develop a positive attitude towards exercising and work-out.

In addition to that, it can also reduce levels of stress and increase the individual’s stamina and energy.  Imagine, learning self-defense and keeping your personal fitness in check in an hour or less in a day.  But as great as it is, there should be considerations before practicing aerobic kickboxing.

• Your personal level of fitness. 

Aerobic kickboxing is a high-impact aerobic routine. Those who are suffering from arthritis, tight hamstrings and inflexible back can have difficulties with this routine.  And always consider getting your doctor’s advice before proceeding with any kind of exercise program especially if you have an existing medical condition.

• Consider your level of expertise.  

If it is your first time to do such workout, then you could always get a beginning class.  After being familiar with it, you could start progressing into intermediate and advance levels.  If working out with a CD/DVD or tape at home, then pay attention to the instructions and start and do the workout according to your own pace.  There are moves like high-kicks which should be avoided by beginners.  These moves would require flexibility which would be developed later on when you have already gotten used to the routine.

• Hydrate.

Always drink water before, during and after the workout.

• If the CD or the class runs for more than an hour, you are not obligated to workout for the entire period.  An hour of aerobic exercise is enough.

• Wear clothes that would not restrict the flow of movements while exercising. Loose-fitting clothes could be a problem sometimes. 

Cardio kickboxing could still put beginners at risk of joint injury. Especially, if they would be extending or using incorrect forms and stances like overextending kicks and locking joints. Wearing weights and holding dumbbells are also not a good idea since they could also be detrimental to your joints.  When performing aerobic kickboxing or any kind of aerobics, never give in to peer pressure and excise beyond your limits or fatigue.

Keep in mind that speed, flexibility and your overall performance and fitness will increase along with regular practice.