Kicking, Punching, and Jabbing Allowed

Congratulations to all of you who didn't manage to pack on the pounds this holiday season. For the rest of us, this week's topic is going to speak to you about an excellent aerobic activity I am sure you all have heard about-- Tae-Bo.

Have you heard of Total Awareness Excellent Body Obedience? More commonly known as Tae-Bo, this motivating, yet aerobically exhausting program combines moves of Tae Kwon Do, karate, boxing, hip-hop dancing, and yes, ballet. Encompassing Hollywood's elite to exercise enthusiasts, it has remained the favorite workout since hitting the gyms over two years ago.

If you've heard the words "Tae-Bo" and "Billy Blanks" used synonymously, it's because Tae-Bo's founder is indeed Blanks, a seven-time world karate champion and black belt in martial arts. Formed in the late 1980's, Tae-Bo swiftly gained popularity nearly as fast as a speeding bullet with the release of Blank's video series in August of 1998.

The kicks are fierce and the punches land squarely alongside Blank's motivating personality. In particular, women eagerly simulate Van Damme-style moves. Tae-Bo has marked the entrance of a new realm of exercise appealing to women who tended to steer clear of martial art-related activities.

And the benefits? The muscles used while practicing Tae-Bo provide an effective workout. Repetition is key throughout the extension of jabs, punches, and kicks. Workouts can improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, as well as tone and define muscles. The regimen pumps up the heart rate, therefore providing cardiovascular benefits. An added bonus: Tae-Bo can be practiced by nearly anyone: the fit, the unfit, young and even older adults. Improvement comes with each workout.

How do I learn Tae-Bo? There are several options to get you started. You can head to your local store and purchase Billy Blank's videos. This allows you the option of working out at home whenever you want, and with family members. Through the growing popularity of Tae-Bo, local gyms have popped up offering classes from beginning to expert levels. Choose the class that best fits your level and don't worry that you won't be able to keep up. The beauty of this workout is that you go at your own pace.

Always remember to exercise safely. Tae-Bo is an invigorating and energetic activity, but don't let that interfere with your form. Keep in control of your movements and don't over-extend during jab time. If you can't keep up with the tempo, try doing half-tempo at your pace. This is where you can decide the intensity of your moves, but keep in mind, higher kicks and harder punches are not always better.

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