Kickboxing

    Introduction to Paragon Kickboxing:

    Many individuals have preconceived notions of what kickboxing is like. From guys in Thailand kicking trees at full speed to deaden the nerves in their shins to ladies wearing brightly covered spandex and leg warmers and punching and kicking imaginary opponents in a "tae-bo" fashion. Although both may be considered as appropriate methods for various gyms; Paragon takes a fun, safe approach to training in Kickboxing using challenging exercises and sound techniques (and you can still wear the spandex). Kickboxing covers all aspects of your workout routine from strength training and flexibility to aerobic and anaerobic drills that help with your endurance and "explosiveness" in other areas of your fitness regimen, all while learning an effective self-defense that is becoming one of the fastest growing sports in the US today.

    What should I wear?
    Basically anything you would dress in for jogging, yoga or similar type of exercise.

    What kind of gear should I have for my first class?
    Aside from the comfortable clothing described above, not much else (heck, you won\'t even wear shoes). That being said, if you decide to participate any longer than one week, there are a few pieces of gear you should own:
    —Handwraps- Invest a few bucks in some quality wraps that have some elasticity which allows some "give" when your fists swell from all the punching. There are many small bones in your hand that gloves alone cannot protect. {FYI- take a few minutes at home to learn hand wrapping techniques from an internet site like "You Tube" or come in 15 minutes early and one of the instructors or senior students will be happy to help with your wraps}
    —Boxing or Kickboxing Gloves- Not only is having the right size glove important for a safe, comfortable workout , try wearing ones that have been worn previously throughout the day and you\'ll appreciate your own gear (if that\'s not enough reason to buy your own; take a strong whiff of your hands after using the community gloves).
    —Water- Because you will need to replace all the fluids from your workout.

    So what should I expect?

    The beauty of kickboxing is the simplicity of the sport. Basically, it can be described as a combination of western boxing and Asian style kicks (i.e. Karate, Taekwondo and Muay Thai). Generally, class will begin with light shadowboxing, skip rope, or some form of calisthenics to warm up prior to "hitting targets". If it\'s your first class, an instructor will give you an orientation to the basic kicks and punches as well as the equipment used. So you may be wondering what kind of strikes you can expect to learn in the "Beginner classes". How about the jab, cross, uppercut and hooks; from a single punch to combinations that combine multiple punches all while striking the focus mitts (the primary training equipment that boxers use to develop speed and technique in their punches).

    Example:
    Beginner Focus Mitt Combos:
    1-2: Jab, Cross
    1-4: Jab, Uppercut
    2-4: Cross, Uppercut

    So when do the kicks come in? Aside from mobility, our legs and feet are not utilized in the same fashion that our hands and arms are (when was the last time you turned off a light or grabbed a fork with toes?). That is the reason that kicks are generally more challenging to learn than punching, but when mastered, provide a powerful, long range weapon and adds a whole element to your workout routine. We emphasize basic, effective kicks executed with technique and power on the various pieces of training equipment utilized at Paragon.

    For Example the Kicking Shield:

    Kicking Shields allow you to develop power and conditioning with the previously mentioned styles of kicks. The kicker\'s shins will also become acclimated to striking a surface with speed and power. Almost all kicks can be performed on a kicking shield including:

    THRUSTING and ROUNDHOUSE KICKS (Low and mid section) as well as knee strikes.

    In conclusion, your training session will include but will not be limited to the combinations and utilization of training gear described previously. Thai pads, kicking targets, heavy bags and other traditional equipment will be used in your routines to assist with other facets of your "fight game" and will keep your training invigorating and exciting. So if you can answer yes to one or more of any of these questions:
    —I would like a healthy outlet for the daily stresses in my life
    —I would like to tone or strengthen my body
    —I\'m bored with my current workout routine
    —I want to lose a few pounds
    —I would like to learn a form of self-defense
    —I want to be part of a gym that is accepting of all members, regardless of skill level, age, gender or social status

    Then please allow me to share with you, kickboxing, at The Paragon Academy.

    Aaron Mendoza,
    Kickboxing Instructor