Billy Blanks Tae Bo Workout: is It Effective?

You may have seen the fast paced kicks and punches delivered by Billy Blanks and his disciples on the infomercials advertising his Tae Bo workout videos. Tae Bo as a form of exercise, and the videos developed by Blanks have grown in popularity as people search for new ways to vary their daily workouts. There’s no doubt that these videos have made their mark, but is the Billy Blanks Tae Bo workout really effective?

What Are Billy Blanks Tae Bo Workouts?

The Billy Blanks Tae Bo workouts combine karate, boxing, and ballet moves into a fast-paced routine that gets the body moving and the heart pumping. It’s a unique combination of cardiovascular and strength training exercises that offers continuous variety. It’s said that a Blanks Tae Bo workout not only delivers an effective cardiovascular workout, but also develops balance, strength, and flexibility. In addition, it offers mental benefits by promoting self-awareness and focus, with Blanks continuously reminding participants that “the body moves by the spirit”. Blanks frequently illustrates on the videos how these movements can be used in self defense. It’s a complete workout for mind, body, and spirit.

What Are the Benefits of a Blanks Tae Bo Workout?

Although the Blanks Tae Bo workouts provide variety and a multitude of benefits, they’re not for the first time exerciser or those who want a lower key routine. The kicks and punches, particularly the kicks, are intense and can result in significant muscle strain if done too aggressively early on, particularly if incorrect technique is used. The workouts are high impact which is more stressful on muscles and joints than a low impact routine, although they burn significantly more calories than traditional aerobics. The high impact movements may also help to build stronger bones.

How Should You Do a Blanks Tae Bo Workout?

The Blanks Tae Bo workouts are best approached slowly starting with the basic workout DVD’s to learn how to kick and punch correctly before moving to the more advanced workouts. Emphasis should be on learning the correct form to prevent injury, stopping the tape periodically to do the moves slowly while watching form closely in a mirror. This can help to prevent future injury when the workouts become more advanced. Once your muscles adjust and you can perform the movements fluidly, slowly proceed to the more advanced workouts.

The Bottom Line?

Once you become comfortable with the moves involved in the Blanks Tae Bo workouts, the benefits can be significant. A Tae Bo workout can burn about forty percent more calories than a traditional aerobics routine and provide the additional benefits of building strength, flexibility, balance, and mental focus. Even though it’s not for the beginner, it’s an excellent way to build a stronger heart as well as a better body.