There’s never an excuse for not exercising regularly in Abu Dhabi. Which is mainly a good thing (except for those Saturdays when we feel like staying in bed all day). There’s always some fancy new gym studio opening, a new fitness class to try out or a sports team to join.
We’re big fans of venting our daily frustrations in a boxing class. After all, there’s nothing like a few jabs and uppercuts for clearing the mind.
So when we saw that a new boutique boxing studio had opened in the capital, we couldn’t wait to go and check it out. Then, when we realised that each class is accompanied by loud, adrenaline-pumping tunes and cool lighting, we were basically sold already.
PUNCH is a 45-minute, boxing-inspired exercise class that is available in two different formats. PUNCHIIT mixes boxing techniques with a series of high intensity interval training (HIIT) exercises. This involves moving quickly from doing punching routines to short bursts of bodyweight moves such as burpees, push-ups and mountain climbers. This means your heart rate will soar, and you’ll also burn fat at the same time.
But as each set is accompanied by infectious tunes and dim disco-like lighting, you’ll barely notice how hard you’re working. It’s the opposite experience to slogging away on a treadmill, when 20 minutes seems to last forever and the seconds drag by.
Meanwhile, the PUNCHARD workouts are more focused on the water-filled punching bags. As well as working on improving your fitness levels, these classes also cover how to box correctly and effectively. Each session will tone and strengthen your entire body; it’s a seriously addictive way of exercising and you’ll be feeling like a professional boxer in no time.
The studio works on the mantra that it’s “less about the fight, more about the fun”.
It’s certainly surprising how quickly 45 minutes can pass when you’re jabbing away in time to the mix of motivational beats.
The PUNCHIIT workouts are also available as mixed and ladies-only classes, and the cost is worked out on a simple pay-as-you-go basis. Each class costs Dhs100, but first timers can take advantage of a two-for-one offer.
Other packages include five classes for Dhs475, 10 for Dhs900 and 20 for Dhs1,500 (which can also be split between you and a friend, should you want to share the cost).
The classes are held between 5pm and 7.30pm every weekday; perfect for when you want to unwind and de-stress after a long day. You can view the full schedule at www.punchclub.ae.
We’ll see you in the ring!
WHAT IS IT…
A new fitness studio that’ll get you in shape the puglistic way
WHY GO…
For the soundtrack and to get those muscles really pumping
From Dhs100. Sun-Thu, class times vary. International Tennis Complex, Zayed Sports City (050 754 8474).
