GET A KICK OUT OF LIFE!
KICKBOXING started in the US during the 1970's when American karate practitioners became frustrated with strict controls on martial arts competitions that didn't allow full contact kicks and punches.
As this is a relatively new sport, there are no long-term traditions. The sport has undergone changes such as the introduction of protective gear to avoid injury, during the last two decades.
Competitors use sparring, kicks, punches, kick blocks, shadow boxing and wood breaking that is learned and applied under professional instruction.
RESULTS
There are many benefits to be reaped from this high-energy sport. You can burn fat, lose weight, build muscle or increase your flexibility no matter what your age or fitness level.
PRECAUTIONS
Always warm up for a safe workout. Warm-ups stretch the muscles and connective tissues, making the operative joints more flexible and allowing you to safely perform more intensive exercises through a full range of motion.
Warm-up exercises and stretches are usually of similar movements and ranges of motion that would be performed during a class.
Choosing not to warm up will increase a person's chance of injury.
So if you are bored with the usual sports on offer in your community, then why not try out the very enjoyable and beneficial sport of kickboxing!
- Annemarie Failla