3 Fitness Exercises to Fight Your Way to a Great Body
Getting in shape and staying that way can seem like a chore. Running miles and miles, joining a typical aerobics class, or jumping on a machine just may not seem that appealing. As a result, many tend to start a good routine, but then fall off the wagon as interest wanes. What if, however, there were a much more interesting way to get in shape? In today’s fitness world, there are classes galore to choose from. For those that want to get in shape, be productive, and keep your attention and focus high, check out these 3 exercise classes that will work you in fighting shape.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing is available almost everywhere. Most local gyms carry some form of the class. Kickboxing involves a lot of punching, kicking, and full contact hits. Most classes also incorporate an aerobic element so that you will stay moving and really work your cardio. You can sort of think of kickboxing as a higher paced, more contact form of karate. Granted, you won’t be hitting other people in your exercise class, but some gyms do offer a punching bag for parts of the class.
Jiu Jitsu
This is pretty much a straight up mixed martial arts class, but it is really growing in popularity as of late. More and more cities are opening up classes available to the general public. This form of exercise hails from Brazil. It is known for being the kind of fighting for the “smaller man” and therefore teaches the fighter to take the fight to the ground. In essence, a class will consists of learning balance, hold techniques, and very few strikes. During your first class, you may find yourself thinking that it seems a lot like wrestling, though jiu jitsu provides a bit more instruction and different techniques for winning the fight. Overall, it is a fun, different, and challenging method to getting in great shape.
Karate
This is obviously the most well known form of martial arts. Karate classes will teach you punches, kicks, other types of strikes, and of course balance and movement techniques. It has a natural progression (belts) so that you can see your own progress. If you’ve never taken karate, there are beginner adult classes available in many area. Karate is a great way to learn some self defense and get in great shape at the same time.
All of these types of classes certainly have some merit. The key is to find which one fits with your personality. No matter which you choose though, you really can’t go wrong. They will all make you stronger, leaner, and more prepared to protect yourself in the future.
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Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Allan Ajifo