Group boxing classes have recently gained new heights of popularity. If you haven't tried them yet, we are sharing reasons why it's worth swapping your mind-soothing yoga practice for a high-paced boxing class once in a while.
When done right, boxing improves your fitness and challenges your mind in the most fun way. Whether you are using a punching bag or challenging an opponent in the ring, here are 5 science-backed benefits of boxing that you will gain.
Get stronger
The act of throwing a punch requires energy and power from your whole body, not just your arms and shoulders.
When you prepare to punch, your feet are pushing against the ground and your core muscles are tight which puts all your body parts to work. For this reason, boxing is considered a full-body workout that makes you stronger and increases your endurance by the day.
Improve balance
In addition to muscular strength, boxing involves coordinated footwork and reactive movement strategies, which help you boost your balance.
Improve heart’s health
If walking on a treadmill or jogging around the block is too mainstream for you, boxing is the answer. This exercise includes high-intensity activity which enhances your cardiovascular health by applying moderate pressure on the heart and lungs. Boxing is the perfect way to make your cardio workout all the more fun and exciting!
Lower stress levels
Throwing a good punch into a punching bag whenever you are mad is not just seen in movies. Boxing can be very beneficial to those who experience daily stress as it helps release tension and shift your focus from stressful matters to the punching bag itself. Whenever you are feeling stressed, boxing is perfect for letting it all out in a healthy way!
Get fitter
A high-intensity boxing session has been proven to improve overall body composition and decrease body fat. The number of calories you will burn depends on the intensity of your workout and whether you are hitting a punching bag or just sparring. If you are looking to lose weight, you don’t have to engage in activities you don’t enjoy. You can simply join a boxing class and burn those calories while having fun.
If we succeeded at convincing you of joining a boxing class, here are some things you should know ahead of your first session:
- You won’t be perfect from day one, but stay positive!
- Wearing comfortable clothing that allows you to move is a must.
- Being a tad anxious is normal, but you will overcome it.
- Feeling sore is good and the feeling of empowerment that comes with it is even better!