Checking out Drop Boxing, a different approach to training
During my hunt for the best gyms in Toronto, boxing was definitely a priority for me. Not only does it give you a killer workout and burn, I find it to be quite therapeutic. Nothing like getting out your day’s aggression on a helpless punching bag, right? The Spadina studio takes up the bottom floor and doesn’t look like much from the outside, but once inside the space is pretty big. They have a small studio in the front where they do one-on-one training and the main group training studio in the back. Joining me on this workout was Jenan Nasser as we take you through the VIBE of Drop Boxing & Athletic Wellness on King West.
The Prep
Change Rooms + Amenities
When you walk in, you realize the studio spans out all the way to the back of the building with a ton of space to get settled, prepped and ready for training. I suggest arriving about 15 min before your session starts. Leanne was at the front and she was very warm and welcoming. She gave us the spiel and tour of the place while we prepped our boxing gloves. The change rooms are new, modern and very clean. Towel service is available and alkaline water fountain on hand. They offer glove rentals and wraps with the class and you can also purchase gloves directly from them.
All toiletries are available and the showers were very clean and spacious. Boxing swag is also available for purchase along with light snacks and protein bars. There a ton of spots within Drop Boxing studio to take photos and selfies, but make sure to keep it for before and after class.
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The Workout
Instructor(s)
The trainers are all experienced in boxing and great at pushing you to your limits. They also offer technique training here once a week to train at a slower pace and really focus on proper boxing technique. I happened to try this and I do recommend it as it really gives you a chance to get your form right before those high intensity classes. It’s generally a smaller class so lots of one-on-one time with the trainers to ask questions and practice your punches. I wouldn’t wait though and best to sometimes jump into the deep end before knowing everything.
The Intensity, Quality & Difficulty
Boxing is always such a high intensity workout and I will continue to recommend it to anyone who is able (without injuries, etc..). Not only does it push your endurance to new heights, but your mental is also very much tested here. Drop Boxing is intense, but any level of experience can get started. The trainers do a good job of pushing you to your limits without worrying about what others are doing. You alternate between the bags and floor exercises for a full, intense body workout.
I would say this is a medium difficulty workout, but no matter where you are in your experience level, you can get started here. What I like most about Drop Boxing versus other boxing studios is the punching bags. They are the rounded ones, filled with water which make it easier to do proper uppercuts and the water helps absorb the punches. This is great especially for someone just starting out with boxing.
The VIBE
The class wasn’t too busy when we went, so there was lots of room and space to maneuver. And, trust me, you don’t want to be anywhere near me during a boxing workout as the puddle of sweat around my bag will attest to. The community is strong and supportive and I found it to be more of a female dominant studio – there are some badass women here so watch yourself, fellas. It’s a focused environment where you feel the support and good vibes throughout.
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The Aftermath
A good, intense workout overall with a spacious floor to work with. You’ll feel stronger with your whole body feeling soar the next day. No matter what your normal workout routine is, I highly suggest incorporating boxing at least 3-4x per month. You could, however, get away with coming to Drop Boxing’s classes 4-5 times per week and get all you need from a workout routine.
Location: 161 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON
Contact: 416.901.3767, Website
Neighbourhood: Entertainment District
Type of Workout: Boxing
Booking: Website
Have you been? Let us know what you think below and tag us in your photos, using #TorontoVIBE. Or shoot me a DM on Instagram anytime.
Credits:
Contributing VIBE Reviewer: Jenan Nasser
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Review Scorecard
- Atmosphere (Space, Lighting, Temperature, Smell)
- Cleanliness
- Amenities
- Service
- Workout (Variety, Difficulty, Quality)
- Instructor
- Crowd
Overall VIBE
What I like most about Drop Boxing versus other boxing studios is the punching bags. They are the rounded ones, filled with water which make it easier to do proper uppercuts and the water helps absorb the punches. This is great especially for someone just starting out with boxing. It’s a solid overall workout in a comfortable environment with good amenities.
