Is aqua boxing the new HIIT?

Over the years, we've witnessed the onslaught of many fitness trends — from practising yoga mid-air through a hoop, to busting a move while cycling on a stationary bicycle. But hey, we're not complaining. Any workout that dares to be remotely different takes us away from the reality that we're actually exercising. And if we're burning the same amount of calories, we might as well have some fun while we're at it.  

The entry of aqua boxing first swept up to our shores last year, where we discovered the concept of throwing punches at aqua ballooned bags at swanky gyms like STILL and Ground Zero. As compared to using sand bags, aqua bags are supposedly better for your form as it cuts back on the impact you get with every punch thrown. But that isn't just it. The workout incorporates a number of dynamic HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) exercises, coupled with a series of boxing techniques, neon strobe lights and blood-pumping tunes.

The contemporary combination is undoubtedly engaging, fresh and one that's easy to catch on (catering predominantly to novice boxers). With the addition of more boutique gyms specialising in the newfangled workout, it seems to have even taken over the standing of HIIT classes that we were used to before.

So, when boOm Singapore opened recently, we were excited. The cosy basement gym down at Cecil Street currently only offers one class called boOm Box — conceptualised by owners Bryan Tay and Victoria Martin-Tay.

The 45-minute session is divided into 10 rounds of boxing, alternated with strength training exercises with the help of weights as well as a step board. Led and well-supervised by two instructors, the intensive class centres mainly on six basic punches — namely jab, cross, front hook, back hook, front uppercut and back uppercut, and a series of squats, lunges, steps, and planks. The idea is all about making you work your whole frame, instead of only using your upper body. 

Apart from its boxing studio that allows a class for 24 people, boOm also has a separate area for smaller groups and personal training lessons, as well as a community zone for visitors to rest and mingle in addition to full shower and changing facilities. 

While boOm doesn't fit every single need of a fitness junkie, they focuses on their area of specialisation to offer a high-energy, blood-pumping class. Love HIIT? Try aqua boxing out. Also, if you're looking to let off some steam after a manic Monday, there's no better place to be.

To book a class with boOm Singapore, click here.