Virgin Active is set to box you into shape for 2009, with the introduction of its latest original class offering, Punch.

Punch is a simple, fun and effective format which aims to educate people who wouldn’t normally go to a boxing class. By creating a boxing session within a class format, Punch turns boxing into a group exercise program whilst teaching the correct technique and highlighting the physicality of boxing.

Renowned for being one of the best all round workouts boxing has become a favourite with celebs including Hilary Swank, Russell Crowe and Kristen Bell who all recognise the physical benefits that boxing brings, including a lean and toned body and increased strength.

How does Punch work?

As a high intensity, full body workout, Punch focuses on body conditioning, calorie burn and great 
cardiovascular benefits. Those not wanting to bulk up need not worry either, Punch includes a series of high repetition combinations so will result in muscle tone rather than muscle bulk.

The class uses the idea of the boxing round format by including twelve 3 minute rounds of sparring and pad work in a one hour class. These include combinations of the three main moves employed in boxing; hooks ("side" punches), jabs (straight forward punches) and upper-cuts (punches going upwards).

Punch essentially combines technique, fitness and fun. Because of the physical nature and empowerment of boxing, Punch encourages the participant to release any pent up frustrations or aggression whilst also concentrating on the increasing co-ordination, movement and exercise.

The benefits of Punch

Punch is THE perfect workout for weight loss, increased agility and coordination, muscle tone and a greater all round cardiovascular fitness. In addition to being a cardiovascular work out for the whole body and toning the upper body, Punch works your bottom and quadricep muscles making it the ideal option for women wanting to lose their ‘muffin tops’ and ‘junk in the trunks’ as part of an all over calorie burning programme. Punch offers the potential to burn between 600-900 calories per session.

Carl McCartney, National Group Exercise Manager comments ‘Boxing is often perceived as being all about testosterone and can sometimes be seen as an intimidating activity to participate in. Punch is the perfect class to combat that mentality as it gives every type of member a fun, stimulating and energising work-out.’

Created by the fitness team at Virgin Active, Punch is entirely unique and suitable for all age groups, genders and fitness levels. Punch will be rolling out at Virgin Active Health clubs nationwide from January 2009.

For further press information contact Laura Hind or Laura Wood at Golden Goose PR. 02073760070 or laura.hind@goldengoosepr.com / laura@goldengoosepr.com