Feeling bored with your regular exercise routine? Why not add some martial arts to the mix? Not only will you learn some self-defense, you also get to tone your body along the way. Here are some great martial arts workouts you can do in the gym.
Martial arts workout: Muay Thai
Muay Thai is one of the most popular martial arts for fitness in recent years. This is due to its greater accessibility since there is less focus on performance-based techniques. Instead, you work on actual combat techniques.
The biggest fitness benefit of doing Muay Thai is that you get a full-body workout every session. Since you will be moving your arms, hands, knees, and feet all the time, you exercise them more. Aside from toning your muscles, you also increase your flexibility.
The martial art also works well as an aerobic workout. With its fast-paced movements, you increase your heart rate and enhance blood flow. You also burn 1000 calories in a single session, making it great for weight loss.
Doing a Muay Thai workout
As mentioned earlier, Muay Thai is very accessible. There are a lot of gyms around Metro Manila offering classes, including:
- Gerry Penalosa Boxing Gym: Established by former world boxing champion Gerry Penalosa, the gym has experienced combat instructors who will teach the different techniques.
- FIST Gym: This gym in Timog is affiliated with the Fabrico International Team of Brazilian fighter Fabricio Martina and also offers classes in MMA, boxing, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
- KMA Fitness and Martial Arts: KMA accepts students of different experiences, which is great if you are still exploring the sport. It has multiple locations in Makati and Mandaluyong.
- Fight Factory: For those living or working in the BGC area, Fight Factory is one of the few gyms that offer comprehensive Muay Thai training.
Each gym structures their Muay Thai classes differently, so you should check them first to see which arrangements suit you. Also note that some gyms offer classes that are strictly for fitness purposes instead of a full-fledged training course.
Martial arts workout: Boxing
With champions like Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire, boxing is a martial art very close to Filipinos. As such, it is one of the most common fitness programs they would want to jump into. The gyms listed above even has it as one of their main offerings.
Training is even simpler than Muay That since you will be focusing only on throwing punches. The punching bag is your most common training equipment and you can choose between a speed bag and a heavy bag. The speed bag is great for improving your stamina and reflexes, while the heavy bag is suited for doing an intensive cardiovascular workout.
Joining the right boxing classes
There are different types of classes you can participate in when getting into the martial art for fitness. Some of these classes are:
- Shadowboxing: You throw your punches into the air while picturing an imaginary opponent. This class is a good option for those who might have joint problems.
- On-the-bag boxing: You get the option of using weighted gloves, which helps in building your muscles.
- Cardio and HIIT: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) boxing classes are built around intense calorie burn and incorporate other exercises like dumbbells.
- One-one-one sessions. These will have you training with an instructor who will personalize your workout program for better results.
You can take these classes individually or sign up for several ones. Alternately, you can go for the entire boxing training process that cover every aspect of the sport. When deciding which class to go, make sure to take your current proficiency and fitness goal into account.
Martial arts workout: Tai chi
If you want a martial art for fitness that doesn’t involve physical contact, tai chi is the one for you. Rather than strikes, this Chinese martial art focuses on the different forms. As such, you will be able to develop your flexibility and balance when performing the moves.
Despite its subtler movements, this martial arts is also great for building muscle strength The unsupported arm exercises will give you a thorough upper body workout. On the other hand, you can train your lower body by maintaining the different stances.
Besides the physical benefits, tai chi also has mental benefits. The meditative aspects of the art make it good for relieving stress. You also improve your concentration. Lastly, you gain an improved sense of wellness.
Joining a tai chi class
Finding a tai chi class to join in is surprisingly easy. If you are in Quezon City, there are free classes offered at the UP Diliman campus on Sundays. You can also get in touch with organizations like the White Space Mind and Body Wellness Studio for more in-depth training.
When joining these classes, don’t be intimidated by the terminology and movements. Observe first to get a feel for the art. It is also important that you consult with your doctor first to determine your fitness for it.
Learn martial arts for fitness and boost your health
The different martial arts listed above are just some of the programs you can try out for a different fitness routine. Check out other programs and you will be able to find the right one for you. Enjoy these moves to get that toned body you always wanted.