Boxing yoga could help release a lot of stress
Personal trainer, David Caldwell discusses the latest fitness trend Boxing Yoga tellins us what is is and the health benefits it has on our body.
‘It’s the eye of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the fight. Risin’ up to the challenge of our rivals….. Went the distance now I’m not gonna stop. Just a man and his will to survive…. Eye of the tiger.’
Rocky Balboa is one of the classic films of all time. Everybody’s had at least one fantasy of themselves running up the museum steps to the sound track ‘ Eye Of The Tiger’ at least once, right?!
Well for those of you fantasizing about getting fitter and becoming champion of the world #RockyStyle, I have just the thing: Boxing Yoga.
What Is Boxing Yoga?
Fusing traditional boxing technique and philosophy with Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, Boxing Yoga is a unique class that focuses on the core principles of boxing; posture, alignment and co-ordination to deliver a workout like no other.
Swapping a studio for the gym floor, the original concept behind Boxing Yoga was to help boxers overcome physical and mental barriers but also to help improve their coordination for a bout in the ring.
What Does It Involve?
Before you start thinking this is just for wannabe boxers. Think again. If you’re looking to get fit and tone up, this class is not for the faint-hearted but it really works your whole body.
Each class starts with a yoga-based warm-up to loosen the muscles and focus for the hour ahead. Don’t get too comfortable though. As the session gets underway, be prepared for a combination of lunges and poses, combined with rounds of slow and determined punches, plus abdominal crunches.
What Are The Benefits?
One of the main benefits of Boxing Yoga is that it will improve your core strength and muscle definition but WON’T bulk you up. So don’t worry, you won’t end up with muscles like The Hulk but what you will end up will are long, lean lines and a toned, defined and strong figure to be proud of.
Does It Work?
After persevering and working her body in ways she didn’t know possible during the hour-long class, the aching that followed wasn’t as bad as my tester, Danielle, was expecting. Instead, she said that, ‘It was a tough class but I really enjoyed it. The class consists of a combination of movements and relaxation techniques. I think that’s why I wasn’t achy the next day.’
When asked if she’s go again, Danielle said: ‘Definitely! The class left me feeling full of energy and I couldn’t wait for the next class. I’ve since started going regularly and I’m really starting to master the moves and to see big changes to my body. It really motivates me to keep going.’
Where Can I Do It?
Boxing Yoga classes are available at gyms nationwide. We tried the class at Total Boxer (www.totalboxer.com) but just Google ‘Boxing Yoga’ to find a class near you.
STAY MOTIVATED:
Life sometimes gets tough, everyday stresses can put us off exercising but what we really need is to release that tension and exercise the stress out of our bodies. exercise will make you feel better both mentally and physically so, if you’re looking for a new challenge and something to re-vitalise you, Boxing Yoga is definitely it!
Don't miss out on David's tips over on his Twitter @NDC_Fitness
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