6 Health Benefits of Boxing

in the ring. Each round is three minutes with a oneminute rest.
The drills in fitness boxing provide a similar level of conditioning that translates to better stamina Dr. Edwards explains.
3. Provides fullbody strength
Throwing a punch works your entire body from your arms and shoulders all the way to your core and legs Dr. Edwards says.
The conditioning exercises in fitness boxing classes also use a wholebody approach. Youll tone muscles you never knew you had!
4. Helps with weight management
The calories you burn during boxing can help you maintain or achieve a healthy weight.
One study compared boxing training versus moderateintensity walking in people with a body mass index BMI of greater than 25 which is considered having overweightobesity. The researchers noted reductions in BMI waist circumference and body fat percentage in the boxing group while the walking group showed no changes.
5. Improves balance
Exercise is key to good balance especially as you age.
Boxing can give you better agility and handeye coordination Dr. Edwards notes. It also helps build a strong core which is essential for maintaining your equilibrium.
Boxing training may be an effective therapy to improve balance and reduce falls in people with brain disorders. One early study found that twiceweekly virtual boxing training reduced falls in people with Parkinsons disease while another study showed that boxing training improved balance in people who had a stroke.
6. Enhances mental health
Boxing drills can be a form of moving meditation.
Punching requires intense focus Dr. Edwards states and the constant movement and HIIT exercises during class leave little time for deep thought.
Individually meditation and HIIT offer a range of mental health benefits. Together they deliver a double punch of rewards. According to a review of 16 studies the mental health benefits of boxing include
A healthy outlet for anger and aggression Improved selfesteem and quality of life Less stress Reduced symptoms of conditions like anxiety and depression.
How to prevent boxing injuries
The saying An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure holds true for all sports including boxing Taking preventive steps can help you avoid injuries.
Dr. Edwards shares tips for staying injuryfree
Ease into it You may be tempted to push beyond your limits at first especially if your classmates are more advanced but take it slow. Over time your endurance and strength will increase Dr. Edwards encourages Wear the right gear Wrapping your hands and wrists and donning the right gloves and mitts will help keep you