Looking for a power-packed workout to help you tone up and get rid of some pent up tension? Then kickboxing could be the sport for you. Emma Parkin gets the low down on this energetic workout
If you have thought of learning to kickbox and have pictured yourself bobbing around the ring sparring with someone in the fashion of Hilary Swank’s character from the movie Million Dollar Baby, then forget it! Kickboxing is a serious workout that involves mastering a range of intricate punch and kick techniques and does not have to involve fighting or sparring with someone. A sport that has recently surged in popularity, kickboxing is a fun way to keep fit. It incorporates the toning and defining of muscle tissue through the use of controlled kicks and punches, with aerobic activity and the use of body weight in floor conditioning exercises.
Team try out
Head instructor Michael Burke at Martial Arts Incorporated (MAI), Blackrock was kind enough to spare an hour of his time to show Deputy editor Fanny and myself a few kickboxing and self-defence moves. But a word of warning to those of you who think kickboxing might be an easy ride, you have to break a sweat first!
After a few stretches and some leg and bum exercises we did a few rounds of skipping, then came the exciting part. Michael showed us how to punch properly and we practiced by punching what they call ‘the heavy bag.’ This is a form of resistance training – that will build power in your arms. It’s definitely not as easy as it looks as it requires you to stand and position yourself in a certain way. Practice is definitely the key to success for this part.
The good news is that kickboxing is not primarily a ‘man’s’ sport, as Michael explains. “Perhaps originally it was considered to be so, but now the female to male ratio is very even. Men and women may have different goals when kickboxing and both sexes can benefit in totally different ways. In fact, women outnumber men in most of our classes.”
What does a Kickboxing class consist of?
At the start of a class, loosening up (callisthenics) and light stretching are important followed by a warm up, which can consist of floor exercises (jump jacks, running, etc) or skipping and bag work. Techniques such as punching, kicking, blocking and moving are covered. Strength work and body conditioning (press ups, crunches, etc) are also incorporated. Proper stretching and cooling down should always conclude the training. The great thing about kickboxing is that there are many drills and exercises so each class feels like a different experience.
According to Michael, “the frequency with which you practise kickboxing depends on what you wish to achieve. It is recommended that you take one to three private or group classes a week depending on your goals. Some people train seven days a week and others a lot less frequently but the average is twice a week. Everyone needs to train at least twice a week for fitness benefits, so if you only train with us once a week, you can always do some other form of training for the second session.”
What is the difference between kickboxing and cardio kickboxing?
Cardio kickboxing is a kickboxing and aerobic routine combined to music. All moves and techniques are performed in the air (ie. not striking anything). Cardio kickboxing is great for toning up and burning fat as it has been proven to burn up to 800 calories per hour! “In our kickboxing classes, the emphasis is not only on fitness, but also technique and power as well as the practicality of using the moves in a self-defence situation. There is no partner to partner contact (no sparring or fighting) but you do get to kick and punch the punch bags, kick shields and focus mitts. Gradings and belts can also be achieved from the kickboxing classes. You will need comfortable clothes and your own boxing gloves to start,” explains Michael.
Do I have to fight or spar?
Fighting and sparring are completely optional. Sparring is very beneficial but it is and should always be an optional activity. A lot of people never wish to spar and simply want to improve fitness and self-defence. After developing self-confidence through training, some people will want to try sparring. The majority of kick boxers don’t spar and only a small minority will compete.
Will my muscles become big?
Kickboxing uses your own bodyweight when training so therefore you only get as big as your frame allows. No particular muscle group is worked to excess because kickboxing is a total body workout. If certain muscles did ever become too large, a simple training change would help to balance out the body again.
How long does it take to become good at kickboxing?
Different people take varying times to become proficient at kickboxing. Kickboxing is easy to learn but hard to perfect. You will notice results fairly quickly but you rarely get bored at a class.
How long does it take to achieve a Black Belt in kickboxing?
It depends on many things including your ability, your instructors, the facilities and the amount of classes you attend. Generally it takes four years.
Go for it
If you are looking for a quick, fun, amazingly effective workout, look no further than kick boxing. It’s quick, burns tons of calories, works every single muscle in your body, and will even help you defend yourself if you ever get in a bad situation. So get punching!
What is kickboxing?
Kickboxing is a dynamic and effective sport, evolving from the practice of many different martial arts.It is a recent sport, originating in the US during the 1970’s. Essentially it is boxing with kicks
combining Western and Eastern techniques.
Benefits of kickboxing
> The best part about kickboxing is that everyone can give it a go, irrespective of age, sex or fitness abillities, you can learn the enjoyable and effective art of kickboxing without pain in a positive and friendly atmosphere.
> Development of self-defence skills
> Motivates and encourages you to achieve a proficient level of martial arts competence.
> You learn technique punching and kicking with focus or kick pads.
> Improves suppleness and flexibility.
> Improves energy, stamina, strength and speed.
> Improves concentration, mental focus, co-ordination and re-active skills.
> Improves your self-image, increases confidence, improves posture and body awareness.
More info
Martial Arts Incorporated has three venues in Dublin and specialises in private, one to one training in kickboxing, self-defence and mixed martial arts.
M.A.I: Unit 1 Brookfield Terrace, Carysfort Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin Telephone: 01-2064711 Website: www.martialartsinc.com
Email: info@martialartsinc.com
Equipment can be purchased in your local club or from:
www.maigear.com and www.mullensports.com
