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BOXING GYMS

This workout has never been bigger. From super gritty to sleek and chic, here are the best places to punch, jab and dodge.

Shadowbox

NEW YORK CITY It feels like Spin class here—dark room, club music, charismatic instructor—but instead of pedaling, you’re boxing at one of 40 heavy bags. In off-the-bag intervals, you’ll do strength moves like planks and push-ups. After class, take a private lesson in the ring (above), or hydrate at

the juice and coffee bar. Reporting by Madeline Buxton

Aerospace HPC

NEW YORK CITY Don’t be surprised if you work out next to a Victoria’s Secret model at this modern, whitewashed studio. Classes with co-owner Michael Olajide Jr., a former boxing champ, focus on shadowboxing and bag work but may include drills with jump ropes, resistance bands and light

weights. Reporting by Elyse Roth

City of Angels

LOS ANGELES At this huge warehouse, heavy bags hang from steel beams like an art installation, bare brick walls display graffiti art and music pours out onto the street from the open doors. Classes include boxing basics, endurance drills on the bags, partner work and plyometrics.

Reporting by Rachel Marlowe

Gloveworx

SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA “Punch, breathe, repeat” is the motto at this It studio, owned by former boxer Leyon Azubuike. The Signature Session begins with strength and conditioning on the turf, then heads to the ring for mitt work and moves on to heavy bags. Next, it’s time for heart-rate revving on the bike, the rowers and, finally, the VersaClimbers. Reporting by

Rachel Marlowe

Gotham Gym

NEW YORK CITY This old-school, much-beloved gym is for those who’ve boxed before—there’s not much instruction. Classes take place in the center ring and include glove and mitt partner work, along with body-weight exercises like squats, lunges, jumping jacks and push-ups.

Reporting by Kristin Canning

HIT Fit SF

SAN FRANCISCO Unless your name is Laila Ali, you’ll start with mandatory beginner classes at this roomy, sunlit studio. Once you’re up to speed, you’ll gain access to the fast-paced Cardio Boxing class, where you’ll learn complicated punch sequences and footwork combos, plus intense conditioning drills. (Go pre- brunch: Delicious Mission District cafés are just outside the studio doors.)

Reporting by Devin Tomb