Kickbox Cardio

Kickboxing cardio is based on the Thai sport of kickboxing. It is a modified version of the martial art that is designed to maintain an elevated heart rate and provide a total body-conditioning workout. Kickboxing cardio classes are usually performed to music, with most movements synchronized with the rhythm of the music.

The music itself tends to me moderate (100 beats per minutes) to fast tempo (approximately 130+ beats per minute). The basic components of a typical kickboxing cardio class can be divided into a few basic categories: legs, arms, legs and arms. Arm exercises include: jabs, hooks, uppercuts, and pushups. Leg exercises include: side kicks, front kicks, and squats. Leg and arm exercises include: simulated rope jumping, jumping jacks, and boxer shuffle. These exercises are arranged in various combinations throughout a typical one-hour workout.

Kickboxing cardio is a very physically demanding class. For people new to cardio, or exercising in general, the class will seem like a boot camp. Kickboxing classes have a dropout rate of 80% for first-timers; so it is quite an accomplishment to just make it through to the end of your first class. Don't be surprised to see out-of-breath newbies slinking to the door after 10 minutes of "warm-ups" or people panting for air as they head for the water fountain during break. The class is quite challenging, but it can be well the worth effort if you can be a repeat attendee of the class. Kickboxing is an excellent way to tone up your entire body from your shoulders all the way down to your toes.

As a word of warning, however, you should not use the kickboxing cardio that you learn, as a means of self-defense. Just ask Chuck Norris.

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