Chicago Boxing Trainer, Marlon OrdonezBy Chicago Personal Trainer Marlon Ordonez

5) Boxing sharpens your mind.

Studies have proven over and over again that boxing is great for patients with Parkinson’s to help ease some of the symptoms. A 2016 study by the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease showed it improved the brain’s neurological patterns for coordination, agility, balance, posture and mobility, all of which are affected by PD. Non-contact boxing has grown in popularity due to the benefits gained from it. When you have a coach projecting numbers and visual aids in the forms of punching combinations, it may feel like playing sudoku with your hands thus improving your hand eye coordination and recall.

4) Punch Out Stress.

Stress management is important and often overlooked. Stress causes inflammation, depression, brain fog, and reduces the quality of sleep. Boxing is a great strategy to keep your mind and body in premium health. Many of my clients who are attorneys, CEO’s and full time moms love boxing because it makes them feel better. Punching a mitt or a heavy bag feels good! It releases a rush of endorphins due to the adrenaline that is released during boxing. Go hit a bag, or contact a coach and give yourself a dose of feel good thoughts.

3) Push your body to the limit safely.

Don’t get me wrong… I love box jumps, power cleans, kettlebells, sledgehammers and flipping tires – boxing is just a safer alternative that is just as effective and demanding. You can train anywhere with a pair of gloves, a bag, or a coach holding mitts which is not the case for many other fitness endeavors. You can’t push past your limits till you find them. Glove up my friend!

2) Boxing burns more calories than any other activity!

Research from brand supplement Forza found that boxing burns more calories than another sport! Rowing came in third, and Squash second. Boxing is the most effective strategy for weight loss. More than running, swimming, and doing various activities in a fitness class. Have you taken a boxing class? Time literally flies by! It’s full body with intense bursts of physical exertion – It’s like interval training on steroids!

1) FUN!

This is the number 1 reason you should box. It’s fun, empowering, and you are learning a new skill that will increase your confidence and ability for self defense. I’ve seen people quit gym memberships and exercise programs due to how much of a chore, and work it may feel to follow through till the end. If you enjoy yourself in whatever it is you are doing, the chances of you being successful grow exponentially. The best part about boxing is that you don’t have to be good at it to gain the benefits from it. Get a coach, find a gym, and sign up now before the holiday season gets you!


Marlon is a certified boxing trainer in Chicago, IL. Contact him today to schedule a complimentary introductory session.

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