As part of my new fitness regime, which includes belly dancing (more of a workout than I thought), on Sunday I started my kick boxing class. I think I took out some of my aggression with that guy on my instructor and the boxing bag.
Man, talk about a tough class & an amazing workout. I thought it would be along the lines of a Tae Bo aerobics class.
Not!
It's boxing without the ring, baby.
We started off running around the room a few times (I thought I was going to die and yet I used to run 1/2 marathons not that long ago. sigh. I am so out of shape.)
Then we partnered up for some basic boxing moves: jabs, hooks, upper cuts, etc. I partnered with the instructor and at first I thought that was a drag, but later in class when we switched partners I realized I got a better work out with the instructor, despite his leaving me to practice solo part way through to watch the rest of the participants.
Next we did some conditioning work. It was as bad as it sounds: jumping rope, sit ups with the medicine ball, push ups, steps, boxing bag, wall sits, etc etc. All agonizing almost to the point of nausea.
We sparred with different partners, finished with stretches, and then high tailed it the hell out of there, sweat dripping off our exhausted bodies. I haven't worked out that hard since I don't know when. I'm glad I went home and took a bath with some epsom salts, as suggested by our instructor. I feel pretty good today, not too sore.
We didn't get into any real kicking moves that first class; I presume those will come after we learn the boxing basics.
I can't wait for next Sunday. I loved putting on the gloves and I really loved the feeling of assuming that pose - holding up the gloves to protect my face and then darting out with a quick jab. I'm not a violent person, but it felt REALLY good to act like a fighter. And what a stress reliever.
