Last Updated on March 26, 2025 by Arun Leer
This is a guest post from Andy Wake – Founder of Boxercise
Boxercise sessions are a fantastic way to combine fitness, fun, and stress relief into an engaging workout.
The thing is, keeping participants excited and motivated requires careful planning and execution.
If you’re wondering how to teach a Boxercise class that energises attendees and keeps them coming back, follow this guide on structuring your sessions for maximum impact.
A well-structured Boxercise class should flow smoothly from start to finish. The key elements include:
- Dynamic Warm-Up (5-10 minutes): Prepare participants’ bodies for intense movement by incorporating light cardio (jumping jacks, jogging in place), dynamic stretches, and mobility exercises that target the shoulders, wrists, and hips.
- Main Workout (30-40 minutes): This should include a balanced mix of shadowboxing, pad work, heavy bag drills, and bodyweight exercises. Adjust intensity based on the fitness level of participants, ensuring beginners and advanced members are equally challenged.
- Cool-Down and Stretching (5-10 minutes): Help participants recover by leading them through static stretches and controlled breathing exercises to promote relaxation and muscle recovery.
Pacing and Energy Levels
To maintain an engaging atmosphere, pacing is crucial. Here’s how to keep the energy levels high:
- Vary the Intensity: Alternate between high-intensity drills (such as speed punches or burpees) and controlled, technique-focused exercises to prevent fatigue while maintaining momentum. Remember though, fatigue is the enemy of good technique.
- Use Motivational Cues: Encourage participants with enthusiastic coaching, call-and-response drills, and positive reinforcement to keep them engaged.
- Incorporate Fun Challenges: Partner drills, circuit-style workouts, or a friendly end-of-class competition can add excitement and camaraderie.
Creating an Engaging Environment
Participants are more likely to return if they enjoy the class atmosphere. Here’s how to enhance engagement:
- Curate a High-Energy Playlist: Music sets the tone, so choose upbeat tracks with strong beats to keep participants moving.
- Foster a Supportive Community: Encourage interaction, learn participants’ names, and celebrate their progress to make them feel valued.
- Keep Classes Fresh: Avoid repetition by regularly changing drills, introducing new combos, and integrating different boxing techniques.
Essential Coaching Tips
Effective coaching makes a significant difference in retention rates. Keep these pointers in mind:
- Demonstrate Proper Form: Always show the correct technique before participants attempt new moves to prevent injury.
- Provide Modifications: Offer alternatives for beginners and progressions for advanced participants to accommodate all fitness levels.
- Be Energetic and Approachable: Your enthusiasm will reflect in the participants’ energy levels, making the class more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
By mastering class structure, pacing, and engagement techniques, you can teach a Boxercise class that leaves participants sweaty, satisfied, and eager to return.
Keep refining your approach, stay dynamic, and most importantly, have fun!
If you’re passionate about fitness and looking to grow your boxercise community, implementing these strategies will set you on the path to success.
Now, wrap your hands, turn up the music, and get ready to deliver a knockout workout!
EMD UK provides funding opportunities to train as a Boxercise instructor. Want to find out more? Click the link to the left!