Kickboxing is powerful, dynamic, and exciting. It is a combat sport based on kicking and punching. On top of that, it’s a great workout. You can burn a massive number of calories and get a full-body strength workout in just one session. You can kickbox on your own, but to learn the basics and proper form, it is recommended to take classes.
Kickboxing classes cost between $10 to $25 per session. Many kickboxing gyms offer monthly memberships, which includes a set number of classes per month or unlimited classes. These usually range from $70 to $110 per month, depending on the level of your membership choice. You can also take online kickboxing classes at home such LesMills OnDemand, which are less expensive.
In this article, we will cover the benefits of kickboxing and a breakdown of pricing to help you decide which workout option is right for you!
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Is Learning Kickboxing Worth It?
Incorporating kickboxing into your workout routine has a number of benefits.
- You can expect a great cardiovascular workout
- You will build strength in muscles such as your core, glutes, quads, and hamstrings
- Kickboxing has positive effects on balance, coordination, and stronger joints
- With all these benefits, you might get a boost of confidence too!
It’s important to note that you should be ready for an intense workout when walking into a kickboxing class. However, this intense, full-body workout will absolutely be worth it.
If you are nervous about your level of ability, take a beginner’s class. Additionally, you can consult your doctor about what level of participation is best for you.
How Much Is Kickboxing?
If you are interested in taking up kickboxing classes, it is important to do your research. Different gyms will vary in pricing, class style and amenities.
In Studio Kickboxing
Kickboxing memberships range from about $70 to $150 per month and require an initiation or processing fee. Committing to a 12-month membership will be the best value option. Additionally, these gyms may offer different classes. Some have simply traditional kickboxing, while others include strength training, Brazilian jiu-jitsu and private training.
In order to help you decide which option is best for you, we’ve compiled some helpful information into the charts below.
Here is a chart breaking down in-person kickboxing classes. We’ve included categories such as amenities, drop-in pricing and monthly membership pricing.
| Gym | Amenities | Drop-In Pricing | Monthly Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9Round Boxing | Semi-Private Circuit Training, OnDemand Classes | $10 | $79/month for 12-month commitment, with a $99 initiation fee |
| CKO Kickboxing | Group Classes | $19 | $69/month for 12-month commitment, with a $49 initiation fee |
| iLoveKickboxing (ILKB) | Signature Class (60), Signature Class (45) and Signature Express | $20 | $149/month, with a $125 initiation fee |
| Title Boxing Club | Group Classes, OnDemand Classes, Personal Training | $20 | $139/month, with a $99 initiation fee |
| Rumble Boxing | Rumble Boxing and Rumble Training | $29 | Bulk Class Purchase Pricing - ranges from $145 - $870 depending on number of classes purchased |
| UFC Gym | MMA Training, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Group Fitness, Virtual Classes | None - One Free Pass | $79/month with a $39 processing fee |
Online Kickboxing
As mentioned previously, kickboxing classes are also available online. This can be a great option for a few different reasons.
- Online classes allow you to work out from the comfort of your home.
- This can be beneficial for the individual who doesn’t have time to make it to a gym.
- It’s also a great option for someone who doesn’t yet feel comfortable showing their skill level in front of others.
- Online classes are much more budget friendly than an in-person kickboxing membership.
Below is the same breakdown of class, amenity and pricing for online kickboxing classes.
| Online Class | Amenities | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Fightcamp | Boxing classes, core, and conditioning | Free classes, $439 for Punch Tracker |
| FitOn | Classes all under 25 minutes - Variety of classes such as yoga, barre, kickboxing, Pilates, etc. | Free classes, $20/month for upgraded subscription |
| Fitness Blender | Classes that range from 5-60 minutes | Free classes, $12/month subscription |
| Daily Burn | 6-week kickboxing program | Free 30-day trial, $20/month subscription |
| LesMills OnDemand | Classes that range from 15-55 minutes. Additional classes include yoga, strength, cycling and barre | Free 14-day trial, $15/month |
| Title Boxing Club | Classes that range from 5-45 minutes | Free 7-day trial, $20/month |
| Rumble | Live classes | $15/class |
| Variis | Classes from Equinox, Soul Cycle and Pure Yoga | $40/month |
How Often Should You Go to Kickboxing Class?
Kickboxing is an intense and demanding workout. Participating in this kind of activity can have great results on your mind and body. So how often should you go to kickboxing to reap all these benefits?
This will depend on your physical condition and fitness goals. If you are just beginning, it is best to pace yourself. Participating in an activity that exceeds your abilities can result to over-exhaustion which could lead to an injury.
You can build your abilities up by going to a kickboxing class just once or twice per week to start out. Working out gradually is key to successful weight loss or muscle gains. Once you have built up your level of physical fitness, you can participate in kickboxing classes 3 to 4 times per week.
Is Kickboxing 3 Times a Week Enough?
Experts say that three times per week is the sweet spot to seeing great results when it comes to kickboxing training. If your goal is simply overall fitness, this is a great goal number to stick with. Kickboxing will provide a workout to your arms, core and lower body. Additionally, your flexibility, balance and coordination will improve.
If you are trying to train to compete, you’ll want to kickbox 5 to 6 times per week. Professionals practice about 6 times per week, with additional cardio and strength sessions to better their kickboxing abilities. Competing requires peak physical fitness. This means conditioning and discipline is a must. Mastering the art of boxing can take years.
How Many Calories Do You Burn in a CKO Kickboxing Class?
The number of calories burned during an activity depends on a few different factors. This will differ for everyone. Age, gender, and intensity of the workout all go into the equation of calories burned.
According to the CKO Website, you can burn up to 1,200 calories per class. As we know, this is just an estimate. The average person will burn about 700 calories in one hour of kickboxing.
Because of the high number of calories burned during kickboxing, this is a stellar way to promote weight loss. Losing weight can be simplified to caloric intake vs. output. We want to have less coming in than we are using. It takes 3,500 calories to shed one pound.
Benefits of Kickboxing
Kickboxing has a number of benefits. Your body and mind will thank you for this kind of exercise! Here’s a list of the top advantages of incorporating kickboxing into your routine:
1. Promotes Weight Loss
With the number of calories burned, you are sure to see weight loss results. After continuous kickboxing classes, your metabolism will be boosted.
2. Strength Training
Kickboxing trains almost all muscle groups. Your upper body, core and lower body will be worked to the max. Your arms are twisting and punching, while your legs power each kick.
3. Better Posture and Balance
Posture and balance come from strength in your core. By working this muscle group, you’ll see better posture and improved balance. Sitting hunched over at a desk all day can wreak havoc on our posture. Kickboxing works those muscles that are weakened by inactivity.
4. Energy Boost
Intense exercise allows us to sweat out toxins and pumps happy chemicals through our brain and bloodstream. This gives us a boost of energy ready to take on the day!
5. Reduced Feelings of Stress and Anxiety
Participating in physical exercise is proven to reduce the feelings of stress and anxiety. Kickboxing allows us to put the pressures of everyday life on the back burner as we focus on deflecting and executing kicks and punches. People who frequent kickboxing classes say they feel empowered following a session.
6. Gain Self-Confidence
Mastering the moves of kickboxing may take years. As you build your skill, endurance level and learn new movements you will feel a sense of accomplishment. Taking on these challenges and exceeding your goals improves self-confidence.
Disadvantages of Kickboxing
Although kickboxing is advantageous to our health, it does come with disadvantages as well. Here’s a list of the cons for kickboxing:
1. Excessive Speed or Intensity
The movement in a kickboxing class can be rapid. Your instructor will be calling out instructions with force and demand. You’ll be expected to perform on demand. In some cases, the speed demanded will be too difficult.
2. Improper Form Can Lead to Injury
As with any workout, improper form can be dangerous. Straining your muscles in a way they are not supposed to move can put pressure on your body leading to injuries. Learning the correct form for each of the movements performed in kickboxing is pertinent to your success.
If you participate in a beginner’s class, your instructor should demonstrate proper form.
3. Possible Over-Exertion
As we have mentioned, kickboxing is intense. With this kind of explosive workout, it is easy to over-do it. Be sure to pace yourself through classes. Gradually building up your abilities will allow you to participate in more activity.
What Equipment Do I Need for Kickboxing?
Participating in kickboxing classes require a few key pieces of equipment. Where you decide to take classes and the intensity of your workouts will also determine which equipment is needed. In most cases, you will need your typical athletic wear and sneakers, wraps, and gloves.
1. Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Kickboxing Punching Bag Gloves
This will be the top piece of equipment needed. Whether you decide to take group classes, personal training, or online classes. Your best bet is to start with some good gloves. These gloves from amazon have over 19,000 good reviews!
2. Sanabul Elastic Professional 180 inch Handwraps for Boxing Kickboxing
Under your gloves, you will need wraps. These provide cushion and stability to your wrist as you throw punches.
3. Valleycomfy Boxing Curved Focus Punching Mitts
If you decide to practice kickboxing with a partner, they will wear these as a focus point for your kicks and punches.
4. FITVEN Freestanding Punching Bag
A punching bag can be necessary if you decide to practice kickboxing alone or using online classes. When you go to an in-person kickboxing class, these will be at the studio for you.
5. RDX Boxing Headgear
If you intend to train for competition, it is best to prepare yourself. Using headgear can protect your head and face from intense kicks and punches that will come from your opponent.
Kickboxing Tips
So, after all this, you’re probably excited to start on the journey of joining kickboxing classes. Understandably, you might be a little nervous.
Here are a few tips to be successful during your first kickboxing class:
- Stay Hydrated – Proper hydration is key to an effective workout! Prepare your body for the amount of sweat and water you’ll lose during class.
- Wear the Right Gear – If you are going to an in-person class, you can usually find an FAQ page on their website with a list of appropriate attire you will need for class.
- Arrive Early – Most gyms request that you come 15-20 minutes prior to class time. This allows you to introduce yourself to the instructors, take a tour of the facility and get an explanation of the class structure.
- Take a Class that Matches Your Abilities – If you are a true beginner, do not try and participate in an intermediate or advanced class. In an intense workout such as kickboxing, it is important to pace yourself.
- Have Fun – Ultimately, participating in a workout class should be to promote health and happiness. Enjoy yourself and don’t let the stress of performing perfectly get you down.