What Are the Benefits of Kickboxing?
Kickboxing is a sport that adds kicks to boxing. It is a martial art, a contact sport and a fitness system that is often referred to as cardio kickboxing. All three versions have health benefits.
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Cardiovascular Health
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The American Council on Exercise conducted the first study on the benefits of kickboxing and found that by "burning 350-450 calories, an hour-long cardio kickboxing session is roughly equivalent to an hour of brisk walking or light jogging."
Stress Reduction
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While all exercise reduces stress, kickboxing is especially effective. Kickboxers can picture the situation that causes them stress, then punch and kick their stress away throughout their session.
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Self Defense
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Those who are involved with kickboxing as a martial art or contact sport quickly improve their self-defense skills. People who take cardio kickboxing classes for the fitness benefits also develop skills and strength that can be used for self defense.
Additional Benefits
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Punching and kicking with great force while remaining standing leads to increased balance and coordination. Kickboxers also increase their flexibility.
Warning
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As with any exercise program or sport, check with your doctor before beginning. Learn the necessary safety requirements and start slowly.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of claudiogennari
