Packing a Punch

By: Karen Dybis | January 20, 2020
Boxing in Metro Detroit

Photo Courtesy of Max Box.

For some, exercise is a mix of getting those good endorphins while also working out aggression. Perhaps that is why boxing and boxing gyms have become so popular as a fitness trend around Metro Detroit and the nation.

But boxing as an exercise isn’t all about pretending the punching bag is your nosy neighbor or annoying boss. Rather, it is about footwork, precision punches, pushing yourself to learn new skills and gaining muscle as well as cardiovascular impact during the routine. Instructors look to build you up as well as work you out. 

At Retro Fitness in St. Clair Shores, the exercise facility recently added an Introduction to Boxing class, which incorporates conditioning, mitt work and drills as well as boxing techniques, said manager Ryan Savine. Trainer LaVon Shields, who runs these classes, is well-versed in boxing and several other martial arts, Savien added.

“We also have more specialized boxing, cardio and conditioning small-group training and a few other formats pertaining to boxing,” Savine said. 

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If you’re looking to gain muscle, possibly lose some weight and go a few rounds with your personal fitness, here are some boxing options around Metro Detroit. 

Max Box 

Prepare yourself for some fancy footwork at this Grosse Pointe Woods site. You’ll be put to the test when instructor Mac Gallagher calls you out for not working hard or messing up your footwork. But the results speak for themselves – men and women as well as pre-teens and teens are all taking these classes because they work and they feel better about their bodies as a result.

Motor City Boxing 

This Detroit-based gym describes itself as offering a “fight system,” which combines your ability to work out, your fitness level and how great you’ll look in fashion because you’ll be in the best shape of your life with its help. People from all walks of life work out at this spot, including training boxers as well as MMA fighters. Its classes offer boxing training, strength and endurance conditioning as well as striking techniques. 

Jabs Gym 

Eastern Market not only offers all sorts of great eats and treats, but it is home to one of the two locations for Jabs Gym. It offers boxing, kickboxing, high intensity interval training and cross training. You can take a free class to get started, but most of the people who sign up tend to stay because they like the environment, the trainers’ support and the enthusiasm of the community there. They also have a location in Birmingham.

9Round 

If you’ve only got about 30 minutes to get a workout into your busy schedule, then this Eastpointe gym is for you. It promises you can get stronger and look as well as feel better with its 30-minute kickbox fitness classes. The goal is body transformation, using fun and proven workouts that mix interval, cardiovascular and circuit training regimens. There will be a boxing component to these classes, which were developed by a World Champion kickboxer, blending challenging workout stations with a timed fitness routine. 

The Boxing Rink 

If you really want to sweat, check out this elite training facility in Troy. Whether you’re a mom looking to get fit while the kids are in school or you are a serious athlete, there is a class for every fitness level here. Its fusion-based classes blend cardio boxing with strength training and restorative yoga to help your body and mind. There also are programs that focus on seniors, people with special needs and a program for boxers with Parkinson’s Disease. Whether you want to reduce stress or build muscle, you can find something to do.

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