Burn.It.Mel.
The Bare Naked Critic will show you how to put on the pounds, but Melissa reports on the best ways around Washington to take them off.
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Difficulty: Easy, Tough, Killer (dripping sweat, wanting to collapse)
Where: LA Boxing in Old Town (528 N. Henry Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.
Note: Find the closest LA Boxing to you here
What: Hardcore one-hour boxing class using wraps, boxing gloves and boxing bags
Melissa’s Burn: I attended a boxing class with my gal pals Jeren and Ana. Each student had their own boxing bag and the class started with high intensity cardio in the form of jumping jacks, jogging in place, high knees and such. The music was loud and high energy but the instructor was difficult to hear and to see when he demonstrated the punching sequences. He did roam around the class to offer comments and coaching on technique. If someone doesn’t have boxing or kickboxing experience, it would have been tough to follow but that said as long as you’re moving and punching hard, you’ll get a solid workout.
We wore the boxing gloves for most of the workout doing jab/cross/hook combinations and the like. The lower body was incorporated with high-low punching moves and by keeping the entire body moving throughout the workout. We also did a series of squats, lunges, pushups and sit-ups. It was an intense experience from start to finish! My one complaint was there was no attempt made at a class cool down or stretching session. I don’t have a big problem with that but if you do, allocate additional time after the class ends to do this on your own. I was told that each instructor has his or her own style of teaching and that workouts are constantly changing so if you’re into muscle confusion then this is the place for you.
Who was there?: 30+ people at the class I attended; A fairly even mix of women and men.
Why do it?:
- Intense cardio workout
- Strengthening of muscles
- Learn how to punch hard
- Stress reduction
When: Classes are offered seven days a week at multiple times a day. Check out LABoxing.com to find a studio near you and the class schedule for each location is posted online.
Cost: The first class is free with the caveat that if you don’t have wraps for your hands and wrists they must be purchased for around $11. Membership costs entail an enrollment fee (waived on the fee document they gave me at the Old Town location) and if paid in full are $999 for the year or $89/month for a one-year membership or $79/month for a two-year membership. Since I was part of a party of three, they said they’d cut us a deal if we all joined which makes me think fees are negotiable.
Who is Melissa Murphy?
I am an active DC professional seeking to be my fittest self. I run marathons, bicycle and weight train. Juggling a career, a relationship and a hectic social life like many Washingtonians, exercise can sometimes be put on the backburner. Luckily, I’m here to help you find an exercise regimen that works for you.
Want to burn it with Mel? Email melissamurphy99@yahoo.com