You guys remember SoulCycle? (Still a thing, apparently.) The stationary exercise bike group class led by an enthusiastic instructor. I guess Peloton and the pandemic have largely obviated that service. No one wants to go outside when the same thing can be done in the comfort of home. Especially when it’s a bunch of sweaty strangers.
Rumble Boxing is kind of like SoulCycle, but as the name suggest, the prime exercise is boxing. (It’s not so easy installing a punching bag at home compared to an exercise bike.) Led by an equally enthusiastic instructor, you go through a circuit of ten rounds within an hour. It’s a blend of cardio and strength training, though I would say it’s more the former than the latter.
I prefer to workout on my own, but when the friend group wants to give Rumble Boxing a go, how can I not oblige. Any opportunity to exercise is good enough for me. The problem is: the location is downtown, and who goes downtown these days? At least street parking is free after 6:00 PM (for now). Obviously we chose an evening class because we’re working adults. All of this needs paying for somehow!
While there’s locker room and shower facilities, you really should show up to Rumble Boxing dressed in workout gear already. That way you can simply use the lockers for storing your personal items (built-in locks, so no need to bring your own padlock). Rumble will sell you the mandatory hand wraps for $8, and rent you a set of gloves for $3. If you’re serious about the sport (and I am definitely not), you can bring your own. There’s plenty of complimentary towels, and water fountain to fill up your drinks bottle (you’ll need the water).
For about $35 for the one hour class, I had a great time. My cardio’s been lacking since I did the 10K run last autumn, so it’s good to train that part again. The free towels definitely came in handy: I was sweating buckets throughout.
Chess, not checkers.