Kicking my way in 2010

Late last year after a hiatus from my Pilates training, I rediscovered my love for kicking butt, literally. I signed up for my first class though I will still in the process of recovering from a long haul trip but it got me going.

Why Kickboxing? Aside from getting me to deal with some anger issues (LOL), it gives a great body workout and boost your confidence.

I saw some definition in my waist and found more definition and confidence to go sleeveless. You see I am blessed to get what we call in our family the Barrios arms. While my sister has those wonderful toned arms since birth, I on the other hand had fat magically moving towards one direction - arms. So I just work around it by always covering them up.

You hit two things at the same time so great for working moms like me - cardiovascular and strength training. And definitely your core is always contracting.

If you are familiar Tae Bo training videos, you will know that boxing and kickboxing exercises are made popular by it.

The movement in aerobic exercises share a lot of similarities with boxing training. In cardio boxing classes you will immediately realize that the clever variations of aerobic movements is evident in their sparring jabs, power punches, defenses, leg works and overall body positioning.

To step up towards a more demanding workout you will need to learn the proper techniques of the punch and kick combinations. With knowledge of the right techniques, you will build up your confidence and thus your strength will develop faster.

We use the heavy bag, and pads for working out. If I commit to an hour of working out, I know that I burn 350 to 500 calories. Isnt that great!

Another thing to take note is that your heart rate can achieve 75 to 85 percent of regular heart beat and this is in the zone of recommended range during training any exercise period.


Another benefit I see is self defense. The feeling you get from executing a proper punch and kick is priceless. It is my relaxation and my happy place.

Stress can be greatly reduced from your everyday life and you will feel a sense of relief. With stress minimized, you will be able to eliminate any feeling of anger that is within you.

And did I mention that it is one-on-one training? Ayus!

And you dont have to be dressed up in all the latest outfits to train. You spend so much in working out, then you have to buy outfits as well. Ayayay!