Milton Keynes, a large town located in the county of Buckinghamshire, just 50 miles from London, is home to a number of kickboxing clubs. The sport brings together the techniques of various martial arts and offers an excellent workout, with this combination having helped boost its popularity here and in the rest of England over recent years. All of the clubs welcome beginners, though some are more focused on developing competitive fighters rather than helping members in their pursuit of general fitness. The focus on technique rather than merely power makes it a popular choice with children, women and men of all ages and levels of experience.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing offers cardiovascular exercise through the use of martial arts movements. Among the most common moves used in the discipline are front and side kicks as well as standard boxing-style punches.
Though focused on self-defense, many people take up kickboxing as a means to get into shape and maintain fitness. Among the main benefits are weight loss, improved flexibility, better coordination and even stress relief and improved self-confidence.
Unlike other martial arts, such as karate or judo, kickboxing operates in a relatively relaxed atmosphere. In particular, traditional dojo etiquette such as bowing is often not incorporated into the classes. However, all students are required to be respectful and punctual and maintain good levels of personal hygiene.
Classes
Total Dojo offers a range of classes, including children's classes, every day except Sunday both in Milton Keynes and in nearby Bletchley and Bisham Abbey. Classes are available throughout the late afternoon and evening and the instructors welcome complete beginners as well as seasoned fighters.
Classes offered by the SSJ Studio focus on lifestyle benefits such as getting fit and also quitting smoking and attaining more self-confidence.
Competitive Clubs
For kickboxing on a more competitive basis, the Bletchley Dragons has been training fighters up to and beyond Black Belt-level since the mid-1980s. This family-friendly club also helps students develop their fitness and confidence along with technique.
The Woburn Sands Kickboxing Club offers full-contact training, with an emphasis on developing self-defense skills and competing at local and national level.
Considerations
Though most clubs provide the basic equipment, some require students to provide their own mouth guards, groin guards and shin pads, and health insurance may also be required.
Cost
ISA Fitness offers one-hour classes at Milton Keynes College for about $6, and most other clubs cost about the same if lessons are booked in blocks. Prospective students can take advantage of the free trial classes offered by almost all clubs in Milton Keynes to see what style and level of discipline suit them best.
Posted in: Kickboxing