Checking out the effects of a structured kickboxing class
Big Hit’s Fort York location is a beauty. We were greeted by the delightful Zara before our 6am start who was super welcoming and guided us through the workout options available with our 7-day trial (in our opinion every gym needs a Zara). I was also pleasantly surprised by the gloves that they give you on your first day, you get your pick of red, black or white gloves and wraps.
Dummies called “bobs” lined the studio at Big Hit, but you can call them whatever you need to to get through it. I was super ready to punch some bobs in the face. Personally, I liked this much better than the standard punching bag… the faces made things more real. So join Jenan and I as we take you through the VIBE at Big Hit Kickboxing Studio in Fort York.
The Prep
Change Rooms + Amenities
There was one shower at Big Hit which made it a bit difficult not to worry about the queue that would likely form after class. So you might need to account for the time it takes to get to the office post workout. Otherwise, there were fresh ice cold towels waiting for us at the end of the class, what a delight. The bathroom was clean and had a few basic toiletries.
The Workout
Instructor(s)
The instructor Josh was incredible, he was trained in martial arts and kickboxing and he breezed through the moves with flawless technique. He was supportive and took the time to show me how to improve my kick.
The Intensity, Quality + Difficulty
The workout was a mix of kickboxing and abs, killer abs if I say so myself. I totally cheated, but the instructor was on the ball. Kickboxing is much harder than it looks, and the instructor was able to take some time to work on a few peoples’ form individually.
The workout consisted of a few punch combinations, the trainer would yell out a combination and the room would respond with the correct punches. It was empowering to know the combinations and be able to perform them on command – this was the first time I’d heard about them, but by the end of the class I was zeroed into the kickboxing lingo. By the end of the combo’s I could barely hold my arms up, let alone punch the bag. Near the end of the class, the instructor walked us through a bunch of ab work outs designed to destroy you… okay I’m a bit dramatic, but I promise you, you’ll feel it.
The workout was demanding and any sleepiness I was feeling before the class was knocked right out of me. Every muscle was activated and ready for the confrontation that lied ahead, it was just me and bob in that studio.
The VIBE
The vibe at Big Hit was great – the people there seemed to all be very familiar with the moves and the exercises. I was impressed by how clean the space was, Zara also came in right after the class to do a quick polish. With skilled and friendly staff, I couldn’t have asked for a better pre-work workout. You’re definitely going to feel it in your hips, especially if you have never done kickboxing before. Although very uncomfortable the first couple of times, I found it really activates a lot of new muscles we don’t normally use. And the ab workout – you’re definitely going to feel that the next day!
Location: 165 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON
Contact: 647. 748.2448, Website
Neighbourhood: Fort York
Type of Workout: Kickboxing
Booking: Website
Have you been? Let us know what you think and tag us in your photos, use #TorontoVIBE or send us a DM on Instagram.
Review Scorecard
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Atmosphere (Space, Lighting, Temperature, Smell)
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Cleanliness
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Amenities
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Service
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Workout (Variety, Difficulty, Quality)
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Instructor
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Crowd
Overall VIBE
This was my first time trying kickboxing and although a bit uncomfortable in the beginning, turns out to be an incredible workout that activates muscles never before used. It’s not for everyone, but for the people who can stick it out, you will feel amazing – stronger, tighter body and energized from a kickboxing workout. Impeccable facility and service!
