This quarter, in an effort to accumulate enough credits to graduate in the spring, I decided to take a kickboxing class through my school. This was a good fit because it was only one credit, and only for 50 minutes two times a week. I figured it would be a good way to earn an extra credit toward graduating while also getting active for a couple hours a week. However, the more I've learned about the class and kickboxing in general, the more I'm enjoying it for the sport itself and the benefits it provides. After my experience with this class, I think this should be something that all students take and experience.

One of the major benefits of taking a kickboxing class is, obviously, the physical activity it provides. While you may not think that kicking and punching will wear you out, I can tell you now that it definitely does. I leave every class with my heart pumping, having had a tough work out. Some of the benefits of remaining active: better overall health, it helps you sleep better, leads to the release of endorphins, and it helps your mind focus. There are many other health benefits but these are a few of the ones that are most appealing to me as a student.

Speaking of being a student, I find it harder and harder to find time to work out, especially as my undergraduate career is coming to a close. There are so many positive benefits of getting regular physical activity, especially as a student; it was frustrating and disheartening before to be so busy that I didn't have enough time to dedicate an hour or two to working out. By signing up for a class, it forced to me make the time in my week to ensure that I get time in to work out and it has held me accountable for attending the classes.

Another reason why I've come to really enjoy this kickboxing class and think all students should experience a class like this is the self-defense it teaches. Already I've become better at defending myself through punches, kicks, and jabs and I've only been taking this class for three weeks. It's no secret that students, often female students, are seen as targets for violence of all kinds. Spending two hours a week learning about different ways to fight back and to defend myself has helped me feel more confident in my ability to protect myself and has made me more aware of myself and my surroundings, especially as I walk across campus.

While I hope that I never have to use these self-defense skills I'm learning, it's reassuring to know that if anything ever does happen to me, I'll be better equipped to handle myself against a potential attacker than I would have been before taking this class.

This kickboxing class has had so many benefits for me since I started taking it. I find myself feeling healthier and more energetic after attending the class and am more confident in my ability to protect myself against dangerous situations that may arise. As I student, I believe all students should seriously consider taking a kickboxing class for the benefits I listed, and for the many other benefits.