My decision to try out boxing was somewhat spontaneous. I played field hockey, basketball, lacrosse, and softball in high school, so I always considered myself in shape. When I went to college two years ago, I just started going to the gym a couple days a week instead. I had no idea how out of shape I was until I attended my first hour long boxing class at the beginning of the summer. 

I entered my first class somewhat uncertain of what to expect. I came in, and my instructor wrapped my hands in wraps and showed me a few basic punches, and then it began. Here is how it works: 15 minutes of warm up, 30 minutes of punching, 15 minutes of ab work and stretching. The warm up ranges from basic quad stretches all the way to burpees and army crawls. The actual boxing was where I really started to have fun. There are 8 three minute rounds, with a minute 'break' in between. In those 8 rounds, you work different combinations, and really use your entire body. Last but not least was the ab work and stretching. Ab work includes things like Russian twists and planks, and stretching was again just the basic quad and arm stretches. Needless to say, I was exhausted after that first class. But I felt great, and immediately signed up for a membership. 

I went home and fell asleep almost immediately after showering, I was so tired. The next day, I was unbelievably sore. To make things worse, I was driving 7 hours to go to the beach, so my legs were not only sore, but cramped in my car. I honestly wasn't sure if I could go back to another class after how sore I was for days after that first class. But I signed up for a membership, so there was no giving up on myself now. It certainly would have been easier to just give up and go back to my same old gym routine, but I pushed through and I am so glad that I did. 

It has now been nearly three months since I joined my boxing club, and I absolutely love it. With each class burning at least 1,000 calories, I have lost weight, gained muscle, and gained a new sense of confidence. It is a completely unique feeling, knowing that you can push your body to its limits and leave the gym stronger and healthier because of it. The classes are tough, but so much fun. The trainers are upbeat and positive, and make sure each class is different and challenging. I always leave class happier and less stressed than when I walked in. If you are looking to change up your workout routine, I would recommend that everyone at least try one boxing class. It has not only changed my body, but really my life as well.