Cardio Kickboxing: How Tough Is This High-Energy Workout?
If you’re a busy adult in Morris County looking for a workout that actually works, something that burns fat, builds strength, and doesn’t bore you to death, cardio kickboxing is probably on your radar. But here’s the hesitation we hear all the time: Is it too hard? Am I going to run out of gas in five minutes? Is this only for super-fit people or fighters? Many people want strong results but worry the workout will be overwhelming, unsafe, or impossible to keep up with.
That’s exactly where Morris County Wrestling & Martial Arts comes in. Our cardio kickboxing classes in Randolph are designed to be challenging without being intimidating: structured, coached, and adaptable so real people with real schedules can train hard, get results, and stick with it.
So, How Hard Is Cardio Kickboxing, Really?
Cardio kickboxing is a high-intensity workout. There’s no sugarcoating that. But “hard” doesn’t mean reckless or impossible. Most classes operate similarly to other HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts. They include:
- Short bursts of fast punches, kicks, knees, and footwork.
- Brief recovery windows.
- Then right back into movement.
Your heart rate typically climbs into 80–90% of your max, which is why people feel like they’ve done way more than just “cardio” when class ends.
The Big Difference?
You’re not just running or biking in place. You’re using:
- Legs for kicks and movement.
- Arms and shoulders for strikes.
- Core for balance, rotation, and power.
That full-body demand is what makes cardio kickboxing feel intense and effective.
How Many Calories Does Cardio Kickboxing Burn?
The calorie burn from a single kickboxing session is often a surprise to most people. A single one-hour session can burn anywhere from 350 to 800+ calories, depending on:
- Your effort level.
- Body weight.
- Class structure.
Unlike steady-state cardio, kickboxing delivers the afterburn effect (EPOC), keeping your metabolism elevated after class. Translation? You keep burning calories even when you’re back home, showered, and eating dinner. That’s why many people find cardio kickboxing more efficient than jogging or the elliptical.
What Makes Cardio Kickboxing Feel So Challenging?
1. Muscular Endurance Fatigue
Your shoulders and legs will feel it, especially early on. Holding your hands up, throwing combinations, and staying light on your feet adds up fast.
2. Coordination & Core Engagement
You’re constantly coordinating upper- and lower-body movements. That takes focus, balance, and core strength.
3. Mental Intensity
You’re thinking, reacting, and pushing through discomfort. It’s physical and mental, which is why people walk out exhausted but energized. And honestly? That mental engagement is why many members say the class flies by.
Is Cardio Kickboxing Beginner-Friendly?
Yes, it is manageable for beginners if it’s coached correctly. At Morris County Wrestling & Martial Arts, beginners are encouraged to:
- Work at 50–60% power initially
- Focus on technique and breathing
- Take breaks when needed
No one expects you to come in throwing perfect combinations on day one. Soreness is normal in the first few sessions; it’s your body adapting, not failing. Here’s the thing: intensity is adjustable. You control how hard you go.
Are There Any Downsides or Risks?
Like any high-intensity workout, there are considerations:
- It can be high-impact if done incorrectly.
- Knees, hips, and ankles need proper warm-ups.
- Poor technique increases strain.
That’s why structured classes matter. Good coaching makes all the difference, especially if you’ve had previous injuries or long gaps in training.
Does Cardio Kickboxing Make You “Skinny” or “Bulky”?
This is a common concern for beginners. Cardio kickboxing will not make you bulky. It builds lean muscle, improves tone, and burns fat.
What most people notice instead:
- Increased definition in arms and legs.
- Stronger core.
- Better posture.
- Improved stamina.
If your goal is weight loss, conditioning, or athletic fitness, this checks all the boxes.
How Often Should You Train?
For most adults:
- 2–3 classes per week is ideal to start.
- Allows recovery while still driving results.
- Consistency matters more than max effort.
Many members in Randolph, Morristown, Dover, and Rockaway fit classes in before or after work, and actually stick with it because it’s engaging.
Why Train at Morris County Wrestling & Martial Arts?
Here’s what sets MCWMA apart from generic fitness kickboxing studios:
- Real martial arts foundation, not just choreographed moves.
- Coaching from experienced instructors, not random trainers.
- A supportive environment where beginners don’t feel out of place.
- Classes that push you without breaking you.
Founded by father-son team Mike and Vic Amada, the gym has built a reputation across Morris County for serious training that still feels welcoming. If cardio kickboxing feels intimidating on paper, seeing it done right changes everything.
Final Thoughts: Is Cardio Kickboxing Hard?
Yes, it’s challenging, but it’s also one of the most effective, adaptable, and rewarding workouts you can do. You don’t need to be in shape to start. You just need a place that knows how to coach you through it.
Ready to Try It for Yourself?
If you’re curious about cardio kickboxing and want to see what your body can do with the right guidance, reach out to Morris County Wrestling & Martial Arts. For more information, call: (973) 713-3556 or email: mcwandma@gmail.com
Train hard. Train smart. And finally enjoy your workouts again.
