 |
 |
 |
Tai-bo
Tai-bo is a hybrid of martial arts moves, boxing, aerobics and dance. It is a high-energy aerobic exercise class set to music.
What is Tai Bo?What is Tai-Bo good for?
Before you go
Precautions
What to expect from Tai-bo
Hot tip!
Afterwards
What is Tai Bo?
Tai-bo is an aerobic, non-combat exercise that combines moves from dance, kickboxing and other martial arts and is a great workout for the whole body. Tai-bo was developed in the United States by seven-times martial-arts world champion, Billy Blanks and has been very popular in Hollywood with celebs and fitness-fanatics. It's a step further on the road that Jane Fonda and Cindy Crawford were bounding along.
It's supposed to be hard work and it is. But it should also be friendly and fun. Spelled in about six different ways, including "Thaibo" and "Tae-bo", the word is not short for Thai Boxing although it does incorporate elements of Muay Thai.
What is Tai-Bo good for?
Tai-bo is a whole-body workout:
* It's a great calorie-burner: anything from 350 to 800 calories per hour depending on your age, body-shape, level of fitness and the content of the class
* It will get your heart pumping, boosting your circulation, and stimulating your immune system
* It will tone you up and strengthen the muscles across your whole body
* It will help you sweat out the toxins in your skin
* It will raise your serotonin levels so you'll feel energised and happy.
Before you go
There are a few things you should bear in mind when you're doing Tae-bo. It is supposed to be hard work, so don't be discouraged if you struggle a bit, especially at first. There are quite a lot of different moves to learn, and many of them will ask questions of your body that they don't know the answers to... go in with an open and adventurous mind and enjoy it. A good Tai-bo class is a really positive and enjoyable workout.
What to wear?
Something you can sweat in; shorts and t-shirt, leotard or two-piece lycra is probably best
How long?
A typical class lasts for an hour
Precautions
You should not do Tai-bo if you have:
* recently had a baby
* recently had surgery of any kind
* muscular or joint injuries or weakness
* heart problems
You should avoid Tai-bo if you are, or think you might be, pregnant.
If you have any other medical conditions - from a cold to epilepsy - make sure you let the instructor know beforehand. You should also speak to them - or if appropriate, your GP - in advance to be sure that you are okay to take the class.
Some people have said that they found it too hard as they were overweight and the pace was too much, so make sure you get some information in advance about your suitability. It may be you should work up to Tai-bo via another exercise class while you get a bit fitter.
What to expect from Tai-bo
Tai-bo is a tough class. It requires a lot of energy and will make demands on every part of your body. The class will vary between high-energy cardiovascular workouts incorporating martial-arts, boxing and dance manoeuvres. Your flexibility will be tested, and you will also be asked to do more intense muscular exercises such as sit-ups and prolonged stretching. It also includes some graceful movements, elements of Tai Chi and Tae Kwon Do.
As with so much in life, the thing to watch out for is pain! Remember: as with any exercise, if you feel uncomfortably out of breath, or your body is saying, "Please don't put me in that position", then don't do it! The emphasis should be on fun. The music should be pumping and a good instructor will keep encouraging and motivating you throughout the class.
Hot tip!
Anyone you don't much like in the office? Invite them along! Fulfil your fantasies and get fit at the same time!
(We're not entirely serious.)
Afterwards
You are likely to feel exhausted but energised. You may find that you might be very stiff or sore a few days later. Don't worry about this, it's just that you have probably worked muscles you didn't know about. You shouldn't be in pain.
A sauna or steam room, or a gentle swim if you prefer, can help to soothe your muscles and help you relax.
See also:
|
|
|