I’ve spent decades in the ring and cages, competing myself and training fighters who have gone on to become world champions. I currently have students competing in the UFC and have had the privilege of certifying over 1,600 personal trainers in South East Asia and Europe. Today, I want to share some hard-earned wisdom with you about why kickboxing should be the cornerstone of your cardio training programs.

First, let’s talk numbers. A typical kickboxing session can burn upwards of 800 calories per hour. That’s superior to running, swimming, or cycling. Kickboxing engages multiple muscle groups and elevates your heart rate to a level where you’re not just burning calories during the session, but also for hours afterward.

Kickboxing isn’t just about high kicks and swift punches; it’s a total body workout. You engage your legs in powerful kicks, your core in stabilizing those kicks, and your upper body in executing precise punches. Your clients will be getting a full-body workout that also enhances flexibility, balance, and coordination.

Let’s be honest, knowing how to throw a good punch or kick isn’t just for show. It has real-world applications that can empower individuals in self-defense scenarios. And that’s something your clients will appreciate: functional fitness.

Cardio is not just about physical endurance; it’s also a mental game. The rigorous training and discipline required in kickboxing will spill over into other areas of life. It cultivates a mental resilience that’s indispensable in today’s fast-paced world.

Kickboxing drills and exercises are easily integrated into any existing fitness program. Whether you’re running a boutique fitness chain in Europe or a mega gym in South East Asia, the sport’s versatility makes it easy to adopt.

If you’re looking to level up your fitness game and provide unparalleled value to your clients, kickboxing offers an unbeatable combination of cardio, strength, and real-world functionality. I’ve seen the transformation in countless students and personal trainers. Make the move, and you won’t regret it.

Kick high, punch hard, and keep training.

Osu!

Martijn