precision and power, you’ll strengthen your upper body and eventually see more muscle definition.
The kicks will strengthen your legs, especially the hamstrings (the muscles that run down the backs of your thighs). And the kneeing move (a strike in which you thrust your bent knee upward) will firm your abdominal muscles; in fact, all of the moves, when done correctly, will make your torso into a solid base that lets you do everyday tasks more easily – whether you’re hoisting a heavy box into your attic crawl space or shoving open a window that always sticks.
Your cardiovascular system will benefit, too, though how much depends on the class. Some teachers offer a truly aerobic workout — they keep you bobbing, weaving, and jumping amidst the punches and kicks, so that your heart rate stays elevated for most of the session.
Other teachers may not have you move around as much, focusing more on proper form. Either way, a good class will leave you drenched in sweat and energized.
What’s more, a lot of people find kickboxing a great way to release stress. Civilized as we’ve all been not to hit each other (which is, of course, a good thing), we’re still