Rolling With The Punches

Rupert Reid says you can’t beat boxing for a brilliant total body workout

It may sound like a contradiction in terms, but Rupert Reid swears it;s true. The Blue Heelers star insists that pulling on a pair of boxing gloves and beating into a punching bag not only offers an excellent all-over workout, but also helps him to find harmony in his body.

"In some ways, it’s like doing yoga," says Rupert taking a break halfway through a session. "It disciplines your mind and, in doing so, helps you find a kind of peace.

"It’s about understanding that the condition of your body represents your whole state of being. If your shoulders are tense and you’re stressed, that’s reflected on the inside of your body. So if you keep the outside in shape, your insides should be healthy, too.

And, let’s face it, who doesn’t enjoyin kicking the hell out of something every now and then - and with a punching bag, it’s quite safe!"

Rupert first became interested in boxing a few years ago when he was at his local gym and a trainer suggested he go a few rounds with the punching bag. He now boxes with his trained Michael Russell two or three times every week.

A session of boxing lasts for an hour and once the gloves are on, his workout includes using the punching bag, punching mitts, speed ball and kickboxing.

Rupert’s strapping, broad-shouldered physique is certainly testament to the physical benefits of the sport.

"It’s a whole body integration thing," Rupert says. "The swinging, twisting and ducking with each blow is particularly good for the chest and arms, while the constant weaving and shifting around on your feet is great for the lower half of your body. And apart from the great workout, boxing is also lots of fun."

But if you see Rupert at a gym, wearing boxing gloves, punching into a bag and mumbling under his breath, don’t be too concerned about what he’s saying. He often uses his training sessions to rehearse his lines.

"It does look a bit strange, but it’s a great time to run my lines," he laughs. "Sometimes I even do Shakespeare while I’m slugging it out. It seems to work, and it’s a great way to get the demons out of my system."