Fitness: Get in the best shape of your life

Want a workout that will work your entire body, blast fat and give you a great challenge? Kickboxing could be the sport you’re looking for. Recently added to the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games, women’s boxing has sparked a new interest in female kickboxing and mixed martial arts (MMA).

A lot of women are turning to kickboxing as a more active workout that’s going to challenge them in a different way than typical group fitness classes, says Sammie Kennedy, CEO and creator of Femme Fitale, Ontario’s newest women’s only kickboxing  and mixed martial arts program.

Here’s what to expect at a typical one-hour Femme Fitale class:

A warm up will consist of about 10 minutes of jump rope, combined with a bit of other cardio. Next you’ll move onto partner kickboxing pad work and conditioning drills, and karate belt bands are used for some resistance training. Finally, the workout will always end with core work and a good stretch.

Before your first class:

‘ Come well hydrated says Kennedy, especially since classes are held outdoors in the summer. Aim to drink one to two litres before class and bring a water bottle with you.

‘ Eat an hour to an hour and a half beforehand. You’ll need enough energy to get through the class, but you don’t want to load up on something heavy.

‘ Wear clothes that are loose-fitting and breathable. "Something that you’ll feel comfortable in."

Related:
‘ 5 amazing benefits of kickboxing for women
‘ 7 workouts that work
‘ 8 fun ways to stay in shape

Photo courtesy of Femme Fitale