Consider Kickboxing

But take steps to protect your joints

April 20, 2012 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- Kickboxing is a fun way to burn calories and tone muscles. But experts say participants, especially beginners, should take precautions to avoid injury.

The American Council on Exercise offers these suggestions for people who are just starting to kickbox:

Don't wear weights or hold dumbbells when you punch. Either can injure your joints.
When kicking or punching, don't lock your joints.
Don't overextend when you kick.
Don't give in to your peers and continue exercising when you are tired.

[Read: 10 Excuses for Not Exercising, and Why They Won't Fly.]