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Health

05th Sep 2013

Fitness Fad: A Form of Self Defence with Toning Benefits, Give Kickboxing a Go

Popular among celebrities and fitness enthusiasts, it's time we found out what all the fuss was about...

Cathy Donohue

Kickboxing is a combat sport based on kicking and punching originating from Karate, Muay Thai and Western boxing.

Originally thought of as primarily a defence sport, it has evolved and is regularly taken as a fitness class. The high strikes and punches required mean that your muscles tone quicker than regular exercise.

It’s important to be able to defend yourself in any situation. Learning a few simple moves will ensure you feel confident and get you fit to boot. What’s not to like about that?!

As kickboxing is a total-body workout, you will also increase flexibility, burn calories, improve coordination and cardiovascular firness.

The sport has grown in popularity throughout Ireland with classes dotted all over the country. Qualified instructors are there to help, whether you want to try it out for the laugh or you’re serious about taking it up as regular exercise.

As life gets increasingly stressful, we need to find ways of dealing with it. Exercise has long been recommended as a stress reliever and kickboxing can be therapeutic, due to its aggressive nature.

 

Kickboxing is a form of self defence and you tone up quickly too

An energetic sport, it helps to relieve both physical and mental stress, as well as increasing mental strength and co-ordination. 

This year, Kickboxing Ireland’s official All-Ireland Championship took place in Moran’s Red Cow pavilion over two days, all levels participated showcasing different disciplines including full-contact and low-kick.

Although full contact sounds a little full on, beginners are given huge support and encouragement. It may not be for you but you’ll certainly have fun trying it out.

For a list of kickboxing classes around the country check out kickboxingireland.ie

Topics:

fitness