CARDIO KICK BOXING WHO IS IT FOR?

As a professional CKB trainer, I have had as much fun teaching as I can see my students enjoy their class. It’s been gaining popularity the world over and is total body workout that is upbeat, fun, energetic and takes you through the discipline of martial arts without it being a contact sport. Anyone with an average level of fitness can join in. I have students of all age groups join in, men and women. Cardio Kickboxing improves your endurance and cardiovascular fitness while it tones your muscles. It is a hybrid training system characterized by high intensity levels set to upbeat music and is an exercise form that challenges both your mind and your body. It is known to help alleviate stress and aggression. On average you can burn anywhere between 800 to 1200 calories in an hour’s workout. After a workout, you can expect your metabolism to stay 10-15 percent higher for the next 18 hours. You may find it a little challenging or yourself uncoordinated in the beginning, but once you get hold of the basic combinations, you will enjoy the class completely. Routine practice, as with all exercise programs, will ensure that your skill levels advance. Punch, jab, cross, hook, uppercut, front kick, roundhouse kick are words that will make a natural progression into your dictionary. I also incorporate heavy bag work, resistance bands, kettle bells, weights for an efficient workout and to cut through weight loss plateaus. Cardio Kickboxing yields great results – it tones, shapes, defines, and builds strength and a killer core. Be prepared to push yourself though. Always keep moving. If you can’t do something, don’t force it, ask your instructor for a variation. Remember your flexibility and range of motion will increase with practice. Intervals must be kept short and your breathing should never get out of hand. Pulse check if necessary. Stay hydrated with small sips of water during breaks. If you have a medical condition or are above 40, please get a clearance from your physician. Always train with a certified trainer. Results are dependent on the frequency, intensity and duration of your workout. It is advised to train 3-4 times a week. In the first week, you will notice an increase in your energy levels, the second week will already find a change in the way your clothes fit and by the third week you are sure to see a change in weight, yet, results will vary depending on the individual. Stay focused. It’s an incredibly efficient workout and when you go through a program that really challenges you, it gives you a strong sense of accomplishment.

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Sandesh Palungwa Limbu, Certified professional fitness instructor, founder of RAGE Fitness, and specialises in mixed martial arts.