Kickboxing and boxing have always been something on my bucket list. I never got around to it for…read moreseveral reasons, time, school, work, etc. but after having gone through something quite harrowing and challenging , I though it was the perfect time to jump on the boxing bandwagon. Times are changing and people are becoming more unhinged and you have to be your own advocate as nobody else will. That being said...
On my hunt for self-defense classes in Miami, I had come across a few options but weren't really what I was looking for.
This Tapout location has been by my house for a few years now and I never thought to try it out until recently. I realized how crucial it is for women to be able to learn how to stand their ground and defend themselves especially if they encounter a threatening situation. Now, the classes aren't necessarily geared towards that but you will learn how to jab, cross, hook, and roundhouse which is sufficient for me. That being said, I took a free class to see if I would like it and I did! It was a Tapout Fusion class. They have different types of classes each with a different dynamic. So far I have taken Tapout Sweat, Tapout Fusion, Power Pilates, and Tapout Strong. Each class is set up differently. You don't spar with anyone. It's you against you and a large punching bag as well as pads set up along a wall. They also have other workout items like kettlebells, dumbbells, TRX bands, and Airdyne bikes. I have yet to try the bikes out but they look pretty cool. I have taken classes with two instructors, Kellie and Calvin and they are amazing. They don't make you feel out of place or intimidated in any way. They support you, guide you, and coach you through each set or movement. Also, they really know their stuff. I particularly enjoy Kellie's class because it's empowering to try a sport that's very male dominated...(yes women box too and they do UFC fighting and WWE)but it's not often you come across a female fighter. The only one I know or have heard of is Ronda Rousey so being taught and led by a female teacher knowledgeable in those techniques makes me feel like it's possible for me to be strong and hit just as hard as a man would. It's like the best kind of motivation. I'm all about women empowerment and am proud that I've taken steps to make myself and my body stronger.
The gym itself is very clean. There is ample space to workout. They also sanitize everything after. You can rent boxing gloves if you need to though I recommend bringing your own. There are also lockers in the back as well as changing rooms. They are pretty diligent about getting you to come back after that first free class which is understandable. I worked at a gym and did sales myself briefly so the membership component and acquiring members is at the forefront and a goal of any operation that's built off of memberships. I was contacted several times via phone but I was a good lead lol because I genuinely planned on signing up. It was just a matter of time, work, and scheduling. I didn't want to sign up for something I would not have time for. What attracted me to signing up was the cost, the location, and my urge to learn self-defense and keep the momentum going that I acquired while taking classes at the other facility I went to for a bit.
They have classes all day and each class is set up differently so it's not repetitive or boring. It's a new workout regimen every time so you can tell they plan out the classes well. Most Importantly, they make you feel welcomed. There are people of all shapes and sizes and levels. Me being a beginner I didn't know what to expect though after having an introduction to boxing at FDT, I kind of had an idea of what I was in for. There is something so satisfying about hitting a punching bag. I'm not a violent or aggressive person, but it just feels so empowering and is a big confidence booster and stress reliever. I highly encourage you to try it out for yourself. And it's nice they mix up the workouts with strength training and interval training...that it's not all about boxing. I'm still trying to get comfortable on the TRX bands because they can be tricky but I know they will benefit me in the long run. The trainers come up with cool, innovative ways to use them and they will guide you on how to use them effectively. All in all, signing up and working out at Tapout was a good move for me. I have met some really nice people, not their for an ego boost but actually just workout for the sake to workout out and better themselves and I've gotten stronger along the way so thank you Tapout. I'm glad I finally decided to stop by:)