MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- Staff Sgt. Nicole C. Baxter turned a dislike of running and a love of aerobics into an aerobic kickboxing class that is the newest way for Depot personnel and their families to get in shape.
"I'm not a big fan of running, but I needed a way to keep up with cardiovascular endurance," said Baxter, a 4th Recruit Training Bn. drill instructor who is currently on quota with the Instructional Training Company at the Combat Training Pool. "The class' benefits include cardiovascular training as well as increased strength and agility. It's a whole body workout. We do about 30 minutes of cardio and then move on to squats, arms and abs."
The class, which is held Monday and Wednesday at 5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m., carries an intimidating name, but Baxter hopes people won't shy away from the class until they give it a chance.
"The kickboxing class I teach can be taken by anyone," said Baxter, a Mission Viejo, Calif., native who has been in the Marine Corps for eight years. "From beginner to advanced, the class can be modified to fit each individual's needs."
One of those modifications has been keeping it simple.
"I don't do a lot of confusing combinations and the personnel that have been attending regularly have been seeing positive results in cardiovascular endurance, strength training and weight loss," added Baxter.
Attendance has varied from one person to 12 people, but Baxter promises that no matter how many people want to take the class she will accommodate.
Baxter will only be able to teach the class until October when she returns to November Co., but she believes the class will continue to thrive even after she can no longer teach.
"As long as there are certified instructors willing to teach, it will continue," said Baxter.
For more information on the kickboxing class, call 228-1562.