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.jpg) If you're interested in finding a new fav sport or exercise, but are just a little bit nervous about actually taking the plunge and want a few pointers first, our new section Active nzgirl, is perfect for you!
Julz Darroch (you might have seen her on Good Morning), our resident fitness guru, will try out a range of new and different fitness classes and bring you her very own verdict. It's a little like trying before you buy - without you having to ever step foot outside your home! This week she tries her hand at boxing...
.jpg) BackgroundBoxing style workouts have become popular in recent years with boxing inspired classes in gyms around the country- I blame Billy Blanks and Tae Bo! This week I’m in search of a more traditional boxing fitness class using gloves and bags, for a more authentic ‘rocky’ experience. Pre lesson Having watched both Girlfight and Million Dollar Baby on DVD I reckon I’m pretty well prepared. However, just in case I am wearing my extra special bra with a boxing logo on it, which guarantees I’m ready for anything.  After the lessonI rocked up for a Sunday afternoon boxing fitness session. The class was a mixture of boys and girls, with regulars and beginners (that’d be me!) and our instructor Jo. I knew it was going to be the real boxing deal when we had to warm up with skipping ropes. I learnt quickly that skipping is a whole lot harder than it was when I was five, and I had more coordination when I was five.
After we warmed up we got to put on boxing gloves (red ones to match my bra) and set ourselves up with a big ol’ boxing bag hung from the ceiling- much coolness! I chose a smaller black bag as it matched the rest of my outfit and looked less likely to cause concussion if it decided to fight back.
 The class involved bashing the bag from different angles as hard as we could (technical terms jab and hook) for an hour while our instructor gave us lots of good tips for causing as much damage to our ‘opponent’ as possible. But it wasn’t all tough work; Jo had her softer side too. If the bag swung too much and was about to knock me out she said to give it a ‘hug’ to stop it moving. My bag was very lucky that day; it got more hugs than slugs from me as I sent it off in undignified directions. The regulars seemed to be working much harder than me (and I was working pretty hard) which I reckon is because they didn’t have to stop every 30 seconds to give the bag a wee hug. So being less experienced on the bags meant I was able to pace myself. The verdict I like it! Even though it was an upper body focus it worked cardio and my abs got a workout from all the twisting. There is something cool about whacking a bag round for a bit, good for letting off some steam.  ProsStraightforward workout, no rhythm required. Low impact. Would be very cool to get together a few chums and head off for a team workout. Cons This is a workout that would be no fun whatsoever with long nails or a timid attitude! Now it’s your turn What you’ll need: You’ll be fine in usual gym gear, bra with boxing logo optional. Take a bottle of water and a towel too. Boxing gloves are provided. Jo looked after me at Gloves Boxing Gym in Hopper St, Wellington City. Email gloves@actrix.co.nz or call 803 3855. Boxing classes are available around the country; a quick internet search will turn up a venue near you (try typing in boxing fitness then your town).
The nzgirl team can also vouch for Ringside Boxing in Auckland (click here to see their four week trial went). They give great classes which provide a serious workout, and are super fun! |
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