About Tae Bo
Tae Bo is a exercise regimen that combines aspects of tae kwon do, boxing and aerobics for a full-body, sweat-producing workout.
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Billy Blanks
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The Tae Bo workout was developed by Billy Blanks, who holds a black belt in tae kwon do and other martial-art styles. He served as captain of the the U.S. Karate Team and earned 36 gold medals in world-class competition. He has provided fitness training to the American Armed Forces and has received acclaim for his writing, motivational speaking and philanthropy.
Tae Kwon Do Techniques
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The Tae Bo workout includes kicks that are used in the Korean martial art of tae kwon do. Kicks include front kicks, which are thrown straight out in front of the body; back kicks, which are thrust backward behind the body; roundhouse kicks, which are thrown by lifting the shin parallel to the floor and snapping the knee; and side kicks, which are thrown by pumping the entire leg straight sideways.
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Boxing Techniques
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Punches in the Tae Bo workout are derived from traditional boxing regimens. These include jabs with the front hand, crossing punches with the back hand and uppercuts delivered from the waist up toward the chin. Tae Bo also includes "speed bag" moves that emulate the exercises boxers do on small punching bags designed to develop speed and hand/eye coordination.
Aerobic Aspects
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Tae Bo is different from traditional martial arts in that it is designed to increase the heart rate, work up a sweat and burn calories. Thus, the martial-art and boxing techniques are performed in consistent rhythms. Transition times between techniques are filled with in-place marching to keep the body moving. Music is played to keep the workout moving at a specific pace.
Cool Down
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A Tae Bo workout concludes with a cool-down session that allows the warmed muscles to relax before going completely cold. This includes stretches for the arms, legs and neck, as well as deep-breathing exercises.
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