Do the upper cut: Create a strong fighting stance by bending knees slightly and tightening core. Punch forward in a circular motion (the upper cut), rotating shoulders and punching with each arm. Rest for 10 seconds between three, 30-second sets.

Bend and box with Piloxing

Integrating core elements of boxing and pilates, “piloxing” is the latest trend in new exercise techniques.

While pilates sculpts the body and improves posture and balance, boxing focuses on agility, strengthening the upper body and burning calories.

With ex-boxer Joseph Pilates in mind, Viveca Jensen decided to combine the techniques, as both work from the body’s core and stabilize. Piloxing is “not feminine, but empowering,” stresses Jensen.

The challenge here is finding your balance and holding positions as you combine moves from each discipline. “You are switching your body from power movements to core stability ones,” says Jensen, “even though the overall choreography remains a fluid sequence of movements.

“If you fit exercise into your daily routine, you will soon find that sooner or later, your body will be longing for it,” says Jensen.  “That’s how people feel about Piloxing.”

Piloxing exercises

Knee cross over to kick

Kneel with knees aligned under hips, left elbow on ground under left shoulder and right hand on ground under right shoulder. Lift right leg, keeping knee bent and toe pointed, and cross it behind left knee. Shift weight to your left side as you straighten right arm slightly and lift right leg up to shoulder height then kick out with control, keeping toe pointed. Repeat for one minute, then switch sides.

Modified hundreds

Sit tall with knees bent 90 degrees and toes on the ground (heels lifted). Extend arms forward at chest level, palms facing down, and lean back about 45 degrees to engage the abs. Pulse straight arms up and down (raise and lower an inch or less) for one minute or until you reach 100 pulses. Halfway through, lift your feet off the ground. Keep your core tight and chest lifted so you don’t sink down.

Standing side plank

Stand on left foot and raise arms out to shoulder level, palms facing ground. Bend over from hips and raise right leg out to the side as high as you can, toe pointed. Keeping arms and torso still, lower toes to the ground. Raise leg again and repeat for 90 seconds, then switch sides.