Punch your way to good health

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Luther Mitchell Jr.
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  "A boxing workout is the heaviest thing, but it's the best. The worst part is that boxing gyms are the smelliest things in the universe. You have to lie down on the floor, where everyone has been sweating and spitting, and do 1,000 sit-ups and push-ups." - Gael Garcia Bernal

At the Luke Air Force Base Bryant Fitness Center, Airmen don't have to worry about the spit covered floors, but they can find all the equipment and tools they need to get involved in a sport that provides one of the best workouts for getting in shape.

"We have everything that deals with boxing," said Pernell Stoney, 56th Force Support Squadron Bryant Fitness Center director. "We have boxing gloves, chest and groin protectors. We just don't have boxing instructors, but we do have the equipment for people to box."

There is a heavy bag and speed bag by the basketball courts. A heavy bag is used for practicing powerful body punches and developing power. The speed bag helps fighters learn to keep their hands up, improves hand-eye coordination and develops strength and endurance.

A 150-pound person who spends an hour hitting the heavy bag can burn up to 500 calories, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services. In addition to cutting weight and toning the body, boxing is also a terrific exercise for relieving stress.

"Boxing is one of the greatest training regiments you can go through if you want to get in shape," Stoney said. "It's a great conditioner. You are doing cardio 90 percent of the time and cardio keeps the metabolism high, so it keeps you in good physical condition."

From 2010 to 2012, the fitness center held boxing tournaments and trained boxers, and Stoney is trying to get it back.

Stoney is a U.S.A. Boxing certified official and is qualified to keep score and judge competitions.

For more information, call fitness center at 623-856-6241.