BREAK OUT OF THE BOX AND INTO THE RING

Whether we look at fitness with excitement or dread, the reality for today’s modern man is that physical activity is more of a necessity than a recommendation. Working out certainly benefits the physique, and brings about confidence as you rock a toned or muscular shape. More over though, adding fitness into your daily rhythm gives you mental clarity and provides transferable skills – such as co-ordination, concentration, or endurance – that help you succeed in other arenas of your life.

In January, the American College of Sports Medicine released the top fitness trends for 2016, and researchers predict that wearable technology will be the reigning champion of the fitness world this year. Tech tools such as the popular FitBit and smart phone apps such as the 7-minute Work Out Challenge beat out the rest, allowing users to set and maintain their individual fitness goals and track their own progress. While these gadgets are sexy and futuristic (and likely beneficial), it’s important to remember that trends don’t always represent the highest quality choice or the most effective results. After all, classics are classics for a reason and most often they endure because they hit hard regardless of what’s trending.

Classics such as boxing, kickboxing, or any other version of combat training, are deemed as some of the most effective workouts – both physically and mentally. According the ESPN Degree of Difficulty Project, boxing came in number 1 in a 60-sport comparison study of required athletic skills. Boxing both requires and develops abilities such as strength, speed, agility, co-ordination, nerve, endurance and concentration – to name a few. And with the modern twists available on the classic sport, you don’t even have to throw a punch in the ring to reap the rewards. As a fitness activity, you learn the same skills and gain the same hard-hitting results as a contender in the arena.

Still need a push in the right direction? Check out Calgary local Martial Arts expert Philip Ndugga talk about his journey with combative training.

 Philip offers inspirational classes, challenging one-on-one training, and sparring sessions around Calgary. Clearly the benefits of these classic sports go beyond getting in killer shape, so get out there and find your determination, develop your nerve, and sweat out your worries and stress. Your body (and your mind) will thank us for the suggestion!