5 Reasons You Should Take Up Boxing
There was a point in time where boxing was the most popular sport in North America. It produced celebrities like Mohamed Ali, Jack Dempsey, and Mike Tyson. And though it went through a bit of a decline in the 1990s, it’s back in a big, and accessible way. The gloves and punching bags are no longer reserved for dingy basements and Boston sports movies. Boxing is more accessible than ever. Studios like Big Hit and Studio KO are popping up in cities across the country, and their audience expands far beyond the Marc Wahlberg-type. People of all backgrounds are using boxing to stay in shape, just like bootcamps or spin class. And for good reason – boxing is one of the best ways to get fit.
Here are 5 reasons why you should take up boxing:
Reduce Stress
Any type of exercise will help reduce stress. When you perform physical activity, your body releases mood-boosting endorphins to elevate your sense of wellbeing and eliminate stress. These endorphins are what’s responsible for that sought-after post-workout glow. But boxing’s stress relieving powers go well beyond those of normal exercise, probably due to the fact that it involves actually hitting something (or someone). What better way to get rid of tension than by unloading on an actual punching bag?
Build Strength
Have you ever seen a professional boxer? Those guys aren’t weak. When you throw a proper punch, you engage muscles in your arms, back, chest, shoulders, legs, and core. Considering that most professional heavy punching bags weigh about 100 lbs, it’s no wonder boxing helps develop incredible full-body strength.
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Better Cardio
Boxing isn’t just about brute force. It’s a tactical game that requires, agility, footwork, and hand-eye coordination. It’s a sport of bouncing and pouncing, and there’s not much time for rest. During sanctioned matches, boxers barely have enough time between rounds to catch their breath and wipe away their sweat. It’s a great way to get your lungs engaged and heart-rate pumping. An hour in the boxing ring can burn close to 700 calories.
Develop Self-Defence
Lifting weights is great and all, but its usefulness in day-to-day life may be hard to see. Boxing, on the other hand, can provide valuable skills for real-life self-defence situations. Like martial arts, boxing provides you with the tactical skills you'd require if you ever found yourself in a life-threatening situation. But, it also arms you with the self-confidence to remain calm and walk away.
It’s a Lot of Fun
It’s called a fitness routine for a reason; it can get tiresome. To ensure you’re getting the most of out of your exercise, it’s important that you regularly switch up your routine to challenge and keep your body guessing. Unlike those 45 mind-numbing minutes on the treadmill, boxing is a great way to get social and competitive with your fitness.
If you’re interested in checking out boxing, look for a studio near you – they’re popping up everywhere. And hey, if you really want to step into the ring, consider joining a local club. We’re super proud to support the Laurier Boxing Club, who use the sport to help fight the stigma associated with mental health.
