Try Boxing in London

Those who know me well will be aware that exercise doesn't feature highly on my agenda. I have a young family and that keeps me busy enough and the gym simply doesn't stand a chance with my schedule.

But when I was invited to try a boxing session I wanted to do it. Yes, that goes against everything I've just said but I made Paul, the trainer, aware of my fitness level and time constraints and we planned a daytime meeting. I brought my friend Sophie along too for moral support/to take photos/to try something new too, etc.

Paul has a few central London studio locations he regularly uses as well as outdoor training in London parks. We chose a studio, and once changed Paul got us on the treadmills to warm up while he explained what would happen in the session and we could ask questions to calm our nerves.

Paul is a Personal Trainer and boxing is his speciality but he can offer fitness training for all levels and all age groups. He told us of a 7 year old who is using boxing to help him with his left and right, plus other clients preparing for sports events such as marathons.

Paul offers 1-to-1 training or group training so he can make this work for everyone. As a lot of my readers are visitors to London I wanted to be sure he could cater for one-off sessions to help those traveling stay on top of their fitness program, and as he often works out of hotel studios, this would be no problem.

We booked a one hour trial and Paul was able to teach us a few basic boxing moves in this time. After the warm up, Paul wrapped our hands which is standard practice to prevent hand injuries. We then worked on our posture and stance and some basic moves. It is better to learn the jabs and hooks without gloves on as then your trainer can check your fist is clenched to protect your fingers and that you are turning your arm correctly and using the right muscles.

When the gloves go on they don't feel heavy, just bulky. Paul then got us taking turns to try our jabs and hooks out on him. Well, on a padded mitt that he was holding but you get the idea. All the time he watches how you throw the punch to ensure safety and a good workout. As we got better - again, 'better' is relative here - we certainly warmed up and had fun. I can see how this would be an enjoyable way to keep fit and the fact Paul can be so flexible with hours he should be able to accommodate most clients.

Did I ache the next day? Yes, but I think I'd made it clear exercise and me don't often meet. But did I enjoy it and would I want to to it again? A resounding yes again! Paul is a great trainer: calm, friendly, and dedicated to ensuring his clients achieve their goals.

Whether you're a Londoner looking for a new fitness challenge or if you're visiting London on holiday or for business and want to try something new or maintain a fitness program then I'm sure Paul can help you. Find out more: www.boxingtrainerlondon.com.

Images: © Laura Porter | London Travel Blog | Join me on Facebook | Follow me on Twitter