Cardio kickboxing classes are high-energy, music-driven group workouts focused on burning calories and improving cardiovascular fitness through choreographed, non-contact movements. They’re more similar to Zumba classes than martial arts classes.
In contrast, traditional kickboxing classes are martial arts classes where you learn proper martial arts techniques and self-defence skills through structured drills and contact training with gloves and pads, and sometimes bags and shinguards.
It’s important to understand the key difference between cardio kickboxing and traditional kickboxing, so that you know what you’re getting yourself into. Let’s explore both to help you decide which class suits your goals best.
What is Cardio Kickboxing?
Cardio kickboxing is a group fitness class, similar to Zumba, that combines elements of traditional kickboxing with cardio exercises. It was popularized in the 1990s by fitness pioneer Patricia Moreno and organizations like the YMCA, aiming to create a fun, engaging way to burn calories and improve heart health without physical contact.
Unlike traditional kickboxing, this version focuses less on fighting techniques and more on fitness through choreographed movements like a high knee march arm cross swing a squat front kick.
In a typical cardio kickboxing class, there’s typically upbeat music to exercise to, and it can be fun for couples or friends to go to these classes together.
Is Cardio Kickboxing Good for Learning Self-defence?
Cardio Kickboxing Class: Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Full-body workout that combines strength, cardio, and abdominal work
- Boosts heart rate and supports heart health
- Fun, accessible environment similar to Zumba, spin classes, or HIIT fitness classes
❌ Cons:
- Many are led to believe they can lose weight; however, weight loss is still dependent on calories in and calories out
- May lack the challenge some fitness enthusiasts seek, as the workout structure is designed with every participant in mind
- Improper instruction of kickboxing techniques, combined with high-intensity fitness workouts, could lead to injuries.
Who Cardio Kickboxing Classes Are Great For:
Cardio kickboxing classes are perfect for those of us who want a cardio workout without the pressure of competition. They’re designed for anyone looking to enjoy group fitness in a motivating, music-driven environment. If you’re someone who enjoys Zumba, HIIT-level intensity, or wants to get a full-body workout once in a while, this format is for you. It’s also perfect for those who want to improve cardiovascular conditioning and have fun or simply move more without diving into full martial arts training.
Traditional Kickboxing Class: Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Focus is on learning real martial arts techniques and developing practical self-defence skills
- Practice on focus mitts and pads, with a partner or a coach
- Often a great place to make new friends, as there’s direct engagement with other students
❌ Cons:
- Many kickboxing gyms can be intimidating for beginners without a martial arts background
- Kickboxing training requires commitment to get better at the martial art
- Some kickboxing gyms encourage sparring, which can be very unsafe
Who Traditional Kickboxing Classes Are Great For:
Traditional kickboxing classes are ideal for those interested in learning the martial art of kickboxing from the ground up. They’re also great for anyone looking to develop practical self-defence skills and become part of a community. Many students of kickboxing classes join to make new friends and grow in a supportive environment.
Traditional Kickboxing Classes in Metro Vancouver
At Art of Kickboxing in Richmond, British Columbia, we provide authentic kickboxing classes for all ages 6+— kids, teens, and adults — including women-only kickboxing classes. Our classes begin with the basics, starting with proper fighting stance, footwork, and gradually moving into more advanced dynamic combinations useful in a self-defence street fight scenario. We believe in teaching select martial art forms with attention to detail and care.
Each class incorporates a structured warm-up, skill-building, combination drills, and ends with a cool-down that often includes dynamic stretching. Our qualified kickboxing instructors teach professional kickboxing lessons in a patient, step-by-step manner suitable for beginners in martial arts.
Try a Free Trial Kickboxing Class in Metro Vancouver today!
