If You Hate Running, This Is The Cardio Workout You Should Be Doing Instead

Do you hate working out because it's boring? That's how I felt for a while, yet I still did it. I dreaded going to the gym, but would throw myself onto a treadmill or elliptical and wait for the hour to be up. Then maybe I'd go attempt to some sit ups and weights.

My intimidation and lack of knowledge pushed me away, and I found my work out to be satisfactory. I never pushed myself, but rather went just to stay somewhat in shape. I didn't have much of an excuse in college. The gym was free and walking distance from my apartment. Although I always went, I couldn't help but constantly be bored.

After graduating college and moving to Boston, working out was at the bottom of my priority list. I went a long time without working out. When my best friend suggested buying a Groupon for a couple of kickboxing classes, I figured I didn't have anything to lose.

It sounded exciting, even though I didn't think I had the skill set to kickbox. I fall up stairs and trip over myself on a regular basis. But why not? It was a three class deal, and I could see if kickboxing was as cool as it seemed.

I went to a gym called I Love Kickboxing (ILKB), and upon arrival of my first class, they took some time to get to know me and ask about my goals. I told them I wanted to be stronger, I wanted to enjoy working out and I wanted to improve my health and body. After our conversation, I walked onto the mat. I had no idea what to expect as my instructor kicked my ass in the first 15 minutes of class. It started out with crazy cardio that changed to something new every 30 to 60 seconds. There were burpees, Russian twists, high knees, mountain climbers, jumping jacks, high plank, low plank, sit ups, hollow holds, jump squats, low squat holds, scissor kicks, surrenders and SO MUCH MORE.

I didn't know what half of those meant, or how to even do them correctly. But the numerous instructors embraced my inexperience and pushed me through. The randomized cardio (which is different every class) was then followed by stretching. Then you get to kick and punch the shit out of a bag (the best part).

You do multiple rounds (which are different every class) that consist of randomized combinations. After going for almost a year, I can say you will never regret going to a class. You are truly pushed to give everything you've got and the release is indescribable.

Let's say a guy you go on one date with never wants to see you again? Go punch and kick the shit out of a bag. If you're stressed out and everything seems to be falling apart, go work it out. You'll feel better, and it is a healthy way to let out frustration and relieve stress. You'll definitely feel more energized, but most importantly, you will not feel bored. Once you meet your goals, you simply create new ones.

If you are looking for an active engagement that doesn't feel like your average repetitive outdated workout, try kickboxing.