Boxing is a combat sport in which two participants (generally) of similar weight fight each other with their fists. Aero boxing is different. It is a combination of shadowboxing and aerobics. It incorporates self-defense moves with a cardiovascular workout.

M. Jagannathan, a national-level boxer and coach has introduced his new aero boxing technique at FitnessOne, in Chennai. According to Jagannathan, Aero-boxing was his dream project. �Generally people relate boxing to its gruesome punches. I wanted to change this notion and worked for over 4 years to combine the sport with exercise and introduce the new technique of Aero-boxing�.

He says that it is a shortcut to quick results like increased stamina, change in muscle tone and above all, mind relaxation.

�Aero-boxing will tone up all your muscles, including arms, shoulders, chest, back, stomach, hips and legs and it helps in losing weight, increasing the strength, stamina, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, coordination, speed, agility and quickness�, says, Ameeta Agnihotri, Director-Communication, FitnessOne.

�Unlike aerobics or other form of exercises, non-stop work out is involved in Aero-boxing, which consists of dynamic stretching, dynamic power abs, random working and sports activities. As a result, it enhances weight loss, muscle toning and stamina build up�, says Jagannathan. Aero-boxing is open to all, irrespective of gender and age.

The classes were introduced a month ago and currently there are 27 trainees, both men and women. According to Karthik, a trainee, �After practicing Aero-boxing for one month, I have lost 4 kilos and this new form of exercise greatly helps in muscle toning. It is a combination of age old boxing and new exercise forms at varied intensity levels�.

The classes are conducted by Jagannathan at FitnessOne, Kilpauk, thrice a week-Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Currently there are two batches, 8 am to 9 am and 6 pm to 7 pm. Jagannathan says that three classes per week relaxes a person and keep him or her fresh for the rest of the week. The Aero-boxing classes are charged at Rs 1000 (exclusive of taxes) per month.

With increasing stress, people throng yoga and fitness centres for mind relaxation. Chennai�s first Aero-boxing programme at FitnessOne is sure to witness more trainees for muscle toning and body build-up.

U. Bakialakshmi