For Christmas I received a Groupon for three classes at the CKO Kickboxing – Hoboken Madison. My sister remembered how I mentioned I’ve always wanted to try it, and gave it to me as an extra gift. Turns out, that Groupon was one of the gifts I’ve ever received.

Before I start raving about my love affair with CKO, let me tell you a little bit about it.

CKO Kickboxing was originally formed in Hoboken, NJ as “Take It To The Max” in November, 1997 by Joseph Andreula. Joseph designed and created the intense workout, which was the first of its kind. CKO became so popular in Hoboken, that by 2004, nine additional locations opened throughout NJ and NY. In the summer of 2005, CKO opened the doors to its second Hoboken gym and today has over 40 locations!

Their website claims that you could burn up to 1,200 per class. Really? I so didn’t believe that in a single class you’ll burn almost the daily amount of calories recommended. How could that even possible? Well, I am here to tell you it is possible, and it feels SO good!

At this point I’ve been a member for two solid months and I attend classes three to four times a week. My knuckles are proof that I am a dedicated member.

People are even noticing the change in my shape. I don’t see it. I have no idea what they are talking about, but every day I get the same thing, “OH MY GOD DEE! You are looking so good.” But I’ll let you be the judge of that.

The picture on the left, I took right before I started CKO. And the picture on the right, I took this past Sunday while I was lifting. I personally think I look the same. But again, you’ll be the judge.

What I can tell you is that my upper body strength has never been better, and I’ve never felt healthier. I feel very good about myself, and my endurance has sky rocketed. Running is still my number one nemesis, but I am trying as much as I can. I loathe running.

Still not sure what CKO Kickboxing is? Well like the name states, it’s Kickboxing. But it’s so much more. Class varies depending on the instructor. And it is important that you take different instructors because you learn so much from each of them, and they are all fantastic.

Class usually starts with a few laps around the gym to warm up. Then some drills. Followed by a series of stretches. Another lap, water, get your gloves on, and that’s when the good stuff starts; working the bag. After about 50 minutes of a drenching sweat work out, class ends with an ab work out, and a cool down.

To better show you, here’s a video of radio personality, Carolina Bermudez, with head CKO trainer Michael Andreula. They give you a quick demo and explanation of a CKO class.

I take Saturday and Sunday morning classes with Mike and he’s amazing.

Want to try out CKO? They always have a Groupon that includes gloves. OR they do offer a free trial class. Visit their website to find a class near you.

If you’re an existing member, or visiting, please make sure you check in on Facebook and donate to Sweat Angels. I’m not sure if all locations take part on this but the Hoboken Madison does. And for the month of March, for every check in you help save an animal from a Kill Shelter.

Also on March 21st, every CKO location, is hosting a Punch-A-Thon for Catch A Lift. Even if you’re not a member, please stop by and donate.

Have you tried CKO? What do you think? Sound off below. If you’re in social media, share your pre and after CKO workout selfies using the hashtag #CKO.