Boxing gyms they are a-changin’

The Associated Press on Wednesday highlighted a circuit gym chain that is gaining membership throughout the world. The Blitz, which describes itself as “a cross-training exercise program that combines strength training, boxing and martial arts into a 20 minute circuit called ‘The Blitz Ring’,� has more than 75 locations in the U.S., Canada, and Ireland.

The workout breakdown is quick, but simple. A bell rings and the exerciser begins punching a heavy bag. The bell rings again in 30 seconds and the workout shifts to arm curls at another station. By doing this for 20 minutes, the exerciser has completed a series of cardiovascular and strength trainings in a short period of time.

The AP reports that 85 percent of Americans do not belong to a gym, one of the main reasons being lack of time. As a result, circuit gyms like The Blitz and Curves for Women are becoming more prevalent. Of the country’s estimated 30,000 health clubs, almost a third of them are circuit gyms.