My first foray into group fitness was in 2013. The place was called ilovekickboxing, and while their website left something to be desired, I loved the workout and community. From that day on I was hooked (pun always intended) on boxing and boxing-adjacent workouts. Anytime a new studio or app popped up that gave me the opportunity to unleash my inner fighter, I was the first one to glove up and try it. Then in 2017 an entirely new type of boxing studio was born – Rumble Boxing. I tried it back then, but as of late it’s become my go-to workout of choice. Here, more on why I love it so much, plus what to expect when you take a Rumble class.
What Is Rumble?
Rumble Boxing is a unique workout that combines boxing circuits, HIIT, and strength training set to curated playlists by in-house DJ’s coupled with colorful lights. All of this makes it as much of a totally immersive experience as it does a great way to exercise. The brand was founded in New York City but now has locations from coast–to-coast, and even a global presence with locations in Japan, Australia, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Kuwait, and more.
The signature class is a 45-minute, 10-round, cardio and strength workout crafted around specially-designed water-filled, teardrop-style boxing bags. These specialized bags were created to be easier on the joints as the water absorbs the kinetic energy expelled with every punch, something that traditional heavy bags (commonly filled with sand) just can’t do. The class is taught by a trainer who stands on a podium and also moves around, cueing the boxers and those that are weight training (what’s known as “floor”). Projections on either side of the room outline the boxing combinations and exercises for each round. Each three-minute round focuses on building stamina, endurance, speed, and strength in targeted areas. Classes always include boxing drills and skills, before finishing with a combination round and a high-energy “Rumble.”
What I Like About Rumble
While some workouts can leave you wondering if a minute is longer in this class or when you’re watching on a microwave, Rumble is anything but. It’s fast-paced even though the signature class is 10 rounds-five rounds on the boxing bags and five rounds in the weights section, switching twice in between.
The energetic instructors, hype workout music, and dynamic graphics also ensure you stay totally engrossed. One of my Rumble trainers, Kory Flores, is beloved for bouncing off the walls (in the best way, possible). She effortlessly cues both the boxing and strength exercises, while making sure everyone feels supported. As we near the peak of our boxing round with non-stop 1s and 2s (jabs and crosses) she quips into the mic, “On a scale of 1 to Fast and The Furious I need you to go Vin Diesel.” I smile and angle my head toward the bag and let it rip. The music surges and the lights flicker in different colors. I go full throttle and it feels like a perfectly-orchestrated fitness moment. Those moments are what I love about Rumble; it’s the perfect marriage of exercise and entertainment.
What’s Worth Noting About Rumble
First and foremost, it’s a boxing-inspired workout. This isn’t the place you go for self-defense or sparring, but it is a great place to learn the basics and get a great workout. And if you’re a total newbie, Rumble is a fun and non-intimidating way to learn how to box. (Avid boxers however, may be disappointed by the smaller-sized bag which doesn’t allow much range for body and headshots.)
Participating studios also offer free, introductory classes for those brand new to boxing. This class introduces the number system the trainers use to call out each punch. 1 is jab, 2 is cross, 3 is front hook, 4 is back hook, 5 is front uppercut, back uppercut. In addition to learning the fundamentals of boxing, you’ll also get acquainted with the weight training portion. This includes a fully-equipped strength bench with weights ranging from 5-20 lbs and weighted brass knuckles that are typically used in the abs portion as well as in the Rumble round..
For those who might have a sensitivity to lights and loud noises, keep in mind that this workout features a lot of both. The front desk does offer earplugs, however.
You’ll need to wear sneakers, workout attire, and bring boxing gloves and wraps. For your first class you can rent gloves for free, but you will need to pay for your own wraps (which you get to keep). You can then rent gloves every time or buy your own. Side note: As someone that’s taken hundreds of boxing classes, I’ve tried my fair share of gloves and prefer these from Tussel Gear, a female-founded company. They make it easy to grab your water for a sip in between rounds or towel off without undoing your gloves.
It’s also worth mentioning that each Rumble workout is geared towards a specific body part (upper, lower, abs, full body) based on the day of the week. This format helps ensure that participants are getting balanced workouts and giving their muscles a chance to rest.
Looking to separate your strength and cardio days? You’ll also want to check with your local Rumble studio to see what other classes they offer, such as 30-minute boxing-only classes and 30-minute strength-only classes.
Finally, while the first class is free, Rumble is a bit pricey. Prices vary by location, but unlimited memberships range from $179 to $299/month. A pack of five classes ranges from $159 to $190 (classes expire 45 days after purchase). You can find a full breakdown of class offerings here.
Keep in mind you’ll also need the gear, namely boxing gloves and wraps. The Wink boxing gloves sold at the studios will set you back up to $90, while easier-to-use quick wraps (they go on like fingerless padded gloves as opposed to traditional boxing wraps) will cost you up to $25. And let’s not forget to mention all the strikingly cute, Rumble-branded apparel, including beanies, tanks, claw clips, and more.
Who Is Rumble Good For?
According to Rumble trainer Stephanie Raphael, the workout is good for everyone: “If you are drawn to amazing music, an energetic atmosphere, and a strong supportive community, Rumble is the place for you.” Her (somewhat surprising) tip for first-timers? “Choose a spot in the front! As intimidating as it may seem, this will give you a clear view of your trainer and the projectors guiding you throughout the class,” she says.
In my opinion, the class is great for people who are interested in boxing with no experience or for anyone looking for a great workout that’s got both cardio and strength training. Rumble is also a top choice for those looking for a fun way to get in shape. Even more experienced boxers will find the classes fun and challenging, since the trainers will always provide ways you can level-up your workout.
The Bottom Line
For me, Rumble has always been a reliably great workout – and a fun one at that. I enjoy the mental challenge as much as the physical one. I build stamina, confidence, grit, and muscle. So much so that I’m about to take my 150th class. So what do you say, are you ready to Rumbleeeeee?
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Marietta Alessi is a wellness writer with nearly 10 years of experience. In addition to PS, her work has appeared in Shape, Bustle, and many other outlets.
