Becoming immersed in the competitive world of kickboxing is the journey for many fighters. However, there are plenty of people who enjoy fitness kickboxing simply as a good cardio workout as well. 

Wherever the road takes you, several kickboxing benefits will contribute to your physical and mental health. In this blog, we’ll explore some of these key advantages, as well as what to wear to stay protected as you train.

1. Boosts Heart Health

It’s important to incorporate moderate cardio exercise into your day several times a week to get the heart pumping. 

One of the main kickboxing benefits is its effectiveness in improving cardiovascular endurance and can help reduce the risk of heart disease. The exercises follow a similar high-intensity interval training (HIIT) format, defined by short bursts of intense, repetitive movements for two or three consecutive minutes. 

Research shows HIIT workouts can deliver the same gains for heart and lung health as 45 minutes of less-intense exercise. Plus, it’s a quick way to burn calories, which helps to further optimize your workouts.

2. Improves Balance and Coordination

Since kickboxing workouts involve a combination of punches and kicks, it requires a strong core so you’re not thrown off balance. Because of the positioning and quick movements involved in this type of cardio exercise, it gradually improves balance and hand-eye coordination.

3. Strengthens Muscles

Fitness kickboxing works all muscles in various ways to keep you limber and strong. Punches, kicks, and other HIIT cardio activities like jumping jacks, push-ups, and high knee runs all work together to strengthen the muscles and bones.

4. Alleviate Stress

Kickboxing workouts are also effective in reducing stress. They increase endorphins in the body and decrease feelings of tension and anxiety. 

Due to the need for complete focus on the physical movements, kickboxing exercise helps to clear the mind, shift stagnant energy stored in the body, and carry long-lasting positive effects well after the workout is over. 

5. Enhances Mental Focus

Slipping on boxing gloves already provides a sense of empowerment. Then, as you build strength and agility with every workout, health and confidence levels rise, providing the ultimate form of self-care. 

Use kickboxing as a way to test your resiliency and monitor your improvement over time. Those new to combat sports may wonder is kickboxing a good workout for beginners? 

The answer is yes. Because you’re able to adjust the intensity, you can tackle kickboxing training at your own pace, making it effective for every level.

What to Wear for a Kickboxing Workout

Cardio kickboxing can be done with or without boxing gloves. However, when working with a kickboxing bag, you’ll want to keep your hands, knuckles, and wrists protected.

The go-to gear you’ll need for this type of workout are kickboxing gloves and hand wraps. These keep your hands and wrists in alignment and provide padded cushion for the knuckles as you punch. 

Also, keep your workout apparel comfortable and non-restrictive without being too loose or distracting. Boxing shorts and compression tees are the perfect combination for any type of kickboxing workout.

Proper Gear for Fitness Kickboxing vs. Boxing

When it comes to kickboxing, wearing shin guards keeps the legs safe from repetitive kicks.

Also, when sparring with an opponent, men also commonly wear groin protectors for extra coverage as well. 

With the close contact involved in kickboxing and other combat sports, it’s best to ensure the body has all the necessary protection and padding to prevent injury.

Kickboxing Your Way to Cardio Fitness

The health benefits of kickboxing are endless. As a workout for beginners, start at your own speed and learn the movements and techniques. 

Then, ramp up intensity as you get comfortable with each skill and advance to the next level.

The point is to keep moving and have fun punching, kicking, and getting the heart rate up. 

For champion-level kickboxing gloves, shin guards, and other gear to support your workouts, the Hayabusa Kickboxing Collection has everything you need.