This four-part article series provides a comprehensive FAQ guide to kickboxing and why it is that this martial art form has become so immensely popular across the United States.
Welcome to the final installment of this four-part FAQ guide on kickboxing as a popular form of martial arts in Chicago. Let’s look at the answers to some final FAQ before wrapping up this series…
FAQ: What do I need to buy before starting kickboxing?
Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “Pack as though you’re going for a workout at the gym! You’ll need comfortable, loose-fitting pants and a T-shirt, as well as a towel and water. Check with the kickboxing studio you’re signed up at as to whether or not they expect you to bring your own gloves. Many do for hygienic reasons, which is perfectly understandable. If they don’t supply gloves for students to use, they’ll certainly sell them.”
FAQ: Where should I purchase my kickboxing gear?
Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “As it was explained, you should be able to buy gear from most kickboxing studios in Chicago. If your particular gym doesn’t, your instructor will certainly be able to point you in the right direction in terms of where you can get the best quality and priced gear.”
FAQ: Should I wear shoes to kickboxing classes?
Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “The only time you will be expected to participate in kickboxing without shoes is when you’re going up against an opponent. The risk of injury would be too high. Otherwise, you should wear comfortable training shoes during practice as these will protect your feet and prevent the spread of germs.”
FAQ: What does a standard kickboxing class consist of?
Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “You’ll begin with some light stretching and warm-up exercises, which vary depending on where you go. Skipping, running, jumping jacks are the more typical modes of warming the muscles for your impending martial arts workout. You’ll then start running through your offensive and defensive techniques, which include kicking, punching, quick maneuvers and blocking. You’ll also perform a suite of resistance and weight training exercises that are designed to increase muscle power, such as abdominal crunches and push-ups. Finally, you’ll conclude your kickboxing workout with thorough stretching and perhaps 5 to 10 minutes of light cardio to cool down.”
FAQ: I’m a girl and I’d like to take up kickboxing, but I’m worried about developing a more masculine physique. Is this often a problem for female kickboxers?
Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “Kickboxing offers Chicago residents a whole body workout using your own body weight rather than heavy weight lifting, which can build excessive muscle mass. As such, this is really not a problem. And in any case, women do not naturally have enough testosterone in their bodies to build muscle like men do, so you don’t have to worry about looking like Arnold Schwarzenegger after a few months of kickboxing classes.”
FAQ: How long will it take me to become really good at kickboxing?
Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “If you train hard, come in for private classes three to four times per week and work on your general fitness and strength outside of these classes, it won’t take you long to become good at kickboxing. Most people notice a distinct improvement in the tone and conditioning of their bodies after only three months and you should certainly be able to defend yourself effectively after just as long. On average, it takes dedicated students four years to achieve black belt.”
first book before you can participate. Most studios or gyms are more than happy to have interested people come in and take a look before they decide to join or not, so don't hesitate to stop by!
into an aerobic routine, which is performed to music. You don't actually strike anything and you aren't learning how to defend yourself effectively. What you are doing is burning off a lot more calories than you would by simply jogging on the treadmill! Cardio kickboxing offers Atlanta residents a killer workout that is incredibly effective for weight loss and toning.
situation, you don't have to do anything you don't want to. Many students of kickboxing only wish to improve their fitness, so they come to learn the skills and techniques and to run through the rigorous training without ever actually fighting.
so don't let it hold you back. If you are able to be physical and if your doctor has given you the green light on rigorous exercise, there is no reason for you to limit yourself and not take up kickboxing. In fact, the kind of training offered by this form of martial arts might actually see you on a shorter road to rehabilitation and recovery! Make sure you explain your injury to your instructor and pace yourself; work around it."
self-defense techniques as an adult, or you can learn kickboxing to stay fit and healthy post-retirement. It's all in the mind: if you eliminate those mental boundaries, you can do it!"
started with martial arts. You get fit through regular classes and you will find yourself hungering for greater physical activity once you have started. You don't need to be fit at all to join a beginner's class and, in any case, you'll find yourself getting fit quick. Please note that this is not to say that beginner classes are easy. Expect to sweat, grunt, pull and strain!"
