New BoxSlim classes hit Hamilton

A new partner-based exercise class, started three years ago in a garage in West Auckland, has opened in Hamilton.

A new partner-based exercise class, which started three years ago in a garage in West Auckland, has opened in Hamilton.

Instructor and part owner of BoxSlim, Steven Punter, 31, who started the classes with partner Daina, may have begun small but they now run classes throughout Auckland, as well as in Wellington and Hamilton.

The pair hope to expand further in New Zealand, as well as in  Australia before taking the concept worldwide.

Steven travels to Hamilton from Auckland on  Monday and Wednesday nights to run classes.

The Monday night class is held at Te Rapa Primary and the Wednesday night class is held at Bankwood Primary.

BoxSlim has now been in Hamilton for two weeks and Steven says although the classes are not yet as big as in Auckland the people in his Hamilton classes are what makes the trip worthwhile.

“I was called a ‘Jafa’ at class yesterday, made me laugh.  Haven’t heard that one in a while.”

Steven and Daina both have backgrounds in personal training and have developed around 60 different routines for BoxSlim.

Steven says their method generates results.

“We provide the routines and the motivation, you provide the focus and energy.  When all this comes together you will leave exhausted but happy.”

Hamilton resident, Anika Grandiek, 21, has now been to two Hamilton classes.

“I enjoy BoxSlim because I always get a good work out and I can definitely feel the effects on my body the next day.  I also really enjoy the trainer, he knows when to push you, but also makes it fun and enjoyable.”

Steven says unlike other group fitness boxing classes that have people  punching thin air, BoxSlim is partner based, using boxing gloves and focus pads set to pumping music.