What do you need for kickboxing?
What you need to bring to kickboxing depends on where you are working out and what your goals are. For a gym or fitness club’s cardio-based group kickboxing class that does not use punching bags, you generally need only appropriate workout gear and enough water. For kickboxers who are training in a martial arts studio, working one-on-one with a trainer toward a specific goal or sparring with competitors, you will need your own boxing gloves (12- to 16-ounce gloves provide more protection for beginners) and hand wraps (to protect and support your hands under the gloves, as well as keep them dry). If your lessons are in a martial arts studio, you may not be permitted to wear shoes, so bring clean socks if you don’t like to go barefoot. If your training includes sparring, you may be required to wear a mouthguard and/or protective headgear. Whether you’re in a group fitness class or hardcore training session, bring a sweat towel for your comfort and the comfort of people around you.
What should you wear to kickboxing?
What you wear to kickboxing can vary based on the setting. For kickboxing group fitness classes that are part of a gym’s cardio class schedule, standard fitness attire is appropriate. Athletic sneakers, pants or shorts that you can comfortably kick in without getting tangled or flashing anyone, and a top that allows for easy movement when punching and jabbing are all good choices. You won’t need protective gear or gloves, as most cardio-based kickboxing classes do not use punching bags.
Kickboxing training that takes place at a martial arts studio typically requires protective gear. You may need boxing gloves (beginners may want 12-ounce or heavier gloves for more cushioning) and hand wraps that protect and support your hands under the gloves while you punch the bag. If your kickboxing training includes sparring with opponents, you’ll need a mouthguard and any protective head and body gear your studio requires. Always be sure to bring plenty of water, too.