Kickboxing for Cardio
Cardio or aerobic kickboxing combines martial arts kicking and punching techniques with an aerobic-style exercise routine. Those who engage in cardio kickboxing do not fight with other people. Instead, they throw kicks and punches in the air or on a heavy bag, staying in constant motion for about 30 minutes. Cardio kickboxing can be fun for the entire family and can benefit a person in many ways.
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Significance
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Cardio kicking routines can be highly rigorous. A person who is relative sedentary and does not work out should not just plunge into a full-fledged cardio kickboxing routine right away. They will likely need some time stretching and performing basic cardio exercises like using the exercise bike, treadmill or jogging. Beginners should go at their own pace and gradually build up their endurance, according to kidshealth.com.
Function
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People who engage in cardio kickboxing should wear loose clothing so they can freely punch, kick and move around the gym or home workout area. Cross-trainer shoes are usually required for the side-stepping and forward-and-backward thrusting maneuvers of kicking and punching. Sometimes, instructors will have students wear hand wraps or gloves for striking techniques on a heavy bag or speed bag. Balance is also an important part of cardio kickboxing.
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Types of Exercises
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A person can learn cardio kickboxing through a certified instructor at a gym or by watching videotapes at home. The objective is to perform one kicking movement for awhile, then move into other kicking or punching movements without pausing. After stretching out and warming up, one can start their routine by performing front, side and roundhouse kicks in succession. A front kick is performed by lifting one leg up and thrusting it out in front. Subsequently, side kicks require a sideways thrust of the leg and roundhouse kicks require a pivoting motion of the body while one strikes with the instep of the foot. Multiple kicks should be performed with each leg. Additional movements can be added as a person builds stamina. The key is to stay in constant motion.
Benefits
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Like other aerobic workouts, cardio kickboxing can increase the oxygen level and improve stamina, increase circulation, clear out arteries, strengthen the heart, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, improving overall health. Cardio kickboxing can also help prevent certain diseases and even increase lifespan.
Effects
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Cardio kickboxing can also help a person burn calories and lose fat and weight. Moreover, the various moves in cardio kickboxing can sharpen reflexes and enhance coordination. However, a person should never overextend her kicks or kick too hard as this can cause knee or groin injuries. Use smooth motions and not awkward herky-jerky maneuvers.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit kickboxing 5 image by Alfredo Panini from Fotolia.com
