Healthy Hollywood: Get Movin’ Monday – Be A Knockout in 2012!

Charlize Theron, Salma Hayek, and Sofia Vergara were just a few of the ladies who not only flaunted fabulous style – but how about their rockin’ bodies? Yup! If you’ve been short on inspiration to fire up your workout routine for the New Year – look no further than the parade of well-toned celebs at last night’s Golden Globe Awards. Talk about motivation!

So, why not jump into the winner’s circle and give your workout a one-two punch? If you’re ready to lose weight and get toned head-to-toe – boxing could be your go-to workout. I know it sounds so macho, but an increasing number of women are getting into it. Even the 2012 Olympics in London will have women boxers compete for the first time ever!

A boxing-inspired routine is a combo of cardio and high impact training, which can burn up to 1000 calories an hour. Not bad, eh? “There can be a misconception that boxing is mostly upper body, yet with boxing and conditioning, you’re using your whole body because every punch comes from your hips and core,” reveals former Golden Gloves competitor Ben Hart, who gives private boxing lessons at Equinox in New York City.

While most of Hart’s clients won’t be stepping into an actual ring, he says people of all ages and physical condition can benefit from a few rounds. “Just like training for a competition, we train to memorize certain punching combinations and there’s lots of fast-paced footwork to make it a mental challenge as well.” Hart also adds, “Boxing creates awareness and perception, as well as good timing and this really does help with your reaction time.”

Start to get buff and tough with these 3 moves.

1. Shadowboxing:
Keep feet nice and wide, while you move around and throw a few different punches. Try a simple combo of a jab, followed by a straight right hand power punch. Start by punching your left hand straight out in front of you at eye level (jab). Then, throw your right hand to the same spot as the jab. Be sure to twist your hips and core across first, and pivot your back right foot to get all of the power.

2. Heavy Bag Punches:
Try punches (or kicks) into a stuffed bag. Start off with some straight punches with a wide leg stance. Be sure to rotate your hips and core into every punch and keep wrists turned over straight every time. As you advance, begin to move around the bag. This is also a good stress reducer.

3. Jump Rope:
Build up cardio conditioning and coordination by jumping rope. Stay on your toes the whole time.

For more information on boxing training, head over to www.equinox.com.