Mixing up your workout routine will help you stay committed to your physical fitness. Instead of limiting yourself to a single sport or exercise, break out of your comfort zone and try boxing. The sport is more than just a chance to throw a few punches—it offers numerous other benefits too.

Why You Should Try Boxing

1. Relieve Stress

Exercising stimulates your body to release endorphins, or the “feel-good” chemicals that activate the receptors in your brain responsible for producing feelings of happiness. A 2014 study found that boxing may decrease emotions like anger, dejection, depression, anxiety, and hostility as well as enhance mood and relaxation. Because it’s such a fast-moving sport that commands your attention, it forces you to redirect all of your focus and energy to the task at hand.

2. Work Your Muscles

Boxers experience full-body workouts that engage many muscles, which will help improve your overall physical fitness, burn fat, and increase your stamina and metabolism. You aren’t just punching and swinging; you’re on your toes the entire time, moving in every direction. You don’t need to participate in a boxing match to reap this benefit. Punching the bag and sparring with a partner will elevate your heart rate and challenge your body.

3. Increase Your Confidence

Just as exercising regularly may boost your spirits, it can also have a positive effect on your self-esteem. Because the sport requires you to think strategically and make spur-of-the-moment choices, your focus and concentration are put to the test. You learn to trust your reflexes and decisions. You’ll feel like you can move mountains as you meet your goals. These feelings can translate into other areas of your life and make you feel more confident outside of the ring.

Try out boxing with a reliable coach like Tessa Moon at TM Productions in Honolulu, HI. She’s an all-around athlete who possesses a combination of impressive strength and extensive experience. She’s trained since 2008, first with former California bantamweight champion Paris Alexander, now with Joel Kim at Palolo Gym. Visit her online to learn more about her history, or call (808) 291-7817 to inquire about becoming a student.