KICKBOXING BLENDS fitness with self-defense

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Searching for a full body workout? Look no farther than your nearest kickboxing class. The intensive workout provides benefits for the whole body, including improved power, fitness, and agility; muscle toning and strength building; caloric deficits; improved cardiovascular health; and mental benefits.

“One single session can work the entire body in a functional and healthy way that burns calories and improves overall fitness,” says Coach Ash Singh, who teaches at VALOR Fitness (with locations in Stockton and Elk Grove)

“The endorphin release from the workout alone is beneficial for mental fitness. However, an even more integral advantage is the mental strength that comes from overcoming adversity, crushing goals, and knowing that you can defend yourself and your loved ones if the situation ever arises.”

While many use kickboxing as strictly part of their fitness routine, enjoying the physical benefits (inside and out) that come with the workout, at VALOR there is also a focus on selfdefense. “The core curriculum at VALOR is designed to teach the basics of striking, with the idea that a person should be able to defend themselves effectively after three months of training at only two times a week,” Ash says.

You don’t have to hop into a gym to introduce yourself to kickboxing. There are plenty of workouts on at-home platforms that cater to individuals that like a home workout. At the bare minimum, you don’t need a lot of equipment, however, some kickboxers prefer the use of a bag or at least weighted gloves.

There are three main styles of kickboxing: kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Savate. While “kicking” implies to many that the focus is on the feet, that’s just the beginning. Classes incorporate knees, elbows, arms, and hands, as well. And while some classes at VALOR focus on simply fitness, others are more about the art of the sport.

In a typical class, students will learn “the ability to throw quick and accurate punches, power kicks, devastating knee strikes, and wicked elbows, all in combination,” Ash says. “We also teach our students elusive head movement, evasive footwork, and rock solid defense to ensure they are just as well protected when defending themselves.”

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What To See And Do In San Joaquin County This Month

BY NORA HESTON TARTE

APRIL 1

Lodi Wine Festival

Have you ever wanted to taste wines from 40 Lodi labels all in one place? The Lodi Wine Festival, held in the Ole Mettler Grape Pavilion at the Lodi Grape Festival grounds, is your chance to sip from a collection of 200+ wines, plus live music and shopping opportunities. Become a VIP and enjoy access to specialty wine and food tastings, plus early entrance.

413 E. Lockeford St., Lodi

APRIL 14-16

San Joaquin Asparagus Festival

Asparagus takes center stage at this annual event, celebrating its 37th year as the Biggest Asparagus Festival in the West! For three days you can dine on asparagus-centric dishes, enjoy carnival rides and games, listen to live music, and partake in family friendly activities including monster truck rides and a petting zoo, held at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds.

1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton

APRIL 23

2023 Stockton Earth Day Festival

Come one, come all, and celebrate Earth at this annual event that recognizes sustainable living and ongoing advocacy. This free offering includes educational opportunities for those who want to learn to care for our planet, as well as food vendors.

1001 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton

The Micke Grove Easter Egg Hunt

APRIL 1, 10 AM-2 PM

Kids can battle it out for filled Easter eggs as well as partake in crafts, games, and more in this free community event. 11793 N. Micke Grove Rd., Lodi

STOCKTON SYMPHONY UNSILENCED VOICED: RESILIENCE & HOPE AT ATHERTON AUDITORIUM

APRIL 1, 7-8:30 PM;

APRIL 2, 2:30-4 PM

The Stockton Symphony will perform at San Joaquin Delta College's Atherton Auditorium with Peter Jaffe at the helm. The concert focuses on music by composers who were previously banned. 5151 Pacific Ave., Stockton

The Fox On The Fairway

APRIL 6-23

Stockton Civic Theatre brings this Marx Brothers tale to life, taking place at a coveted golf tournament. Rated PG. 2312

Rosemarie Ln., Stockton

Ube Fest Stockton

APRIL 8, 11 AM-7 PM

Come learn what ube is and enjoy the food in a variety of preparations while listening to a line-up of talented musicians. 525 N. Center St., Stockton

CHAMPAGNE & ENGLISH TEA

APRIL 22

Support the Hospice of San Joaquin with an afternoon tea party featuring both English teas set on beautiful china and celebratory champagne. 6715 Leesburg Pl., Stockton

Races At The Stockton 99 Speedway

APRIL 23

If you have the need for speed, you’ll enjoy a night at the races. Head to Stockton 99 Speedway for the 74th season opener. 4105 N. Wilson Way, Stockton