Science Corner
Be a Brawler. It Feels Great.
Here’s another great reason for pounding a heavy bag. Research shows non-contact boxing’s unique combination of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and mindfulness create an effective recipe for soothing some psychological disorders.
Turns out smacking a speed bag releases anger and stress, which stimulates metabolic burn and increases self-esteem, mood, concentration, strength and concentration.
This scientific review of 16 documents published in Sage Journals used non-contact boxing as an intervention method to improve mental health issues.
The aggregate results showed non-contact boxing provided a “significant reduction in symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and negative symptoms of schizophrenia.”
The secret may be in how the sport is organized. Boxing workouts routinely follow a three-minute clock, emphasizing breath work as a means of recovery between intense training. This body-mind combination may be the link between boxing and better mental health. Caution though — so far there is no evidence a bout of boxing replaces doctor-prescribed medicines for psychological disorders. However, promoting the connection between landing a punching and personal happiness might make a great social media post… Check out the link below for the full story.