BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — February is Heart Health Month and a local cardiologist is inspiring people to get in shape through a particular fitness activity. Doctors say boxing can improve your overall heart health.

Baton Rouge cardiologist Lance LaMotte is the owner of Title Boxing Club and he says heart disease is the number one killer in the United States.

Lisa Horzelski has been a part of the Title Boxing Club for nearly two years.

“I had been doing all different kinds of exercises, you know, strength training, different cardio activities, but nothing seems to just feel right,” said Horzelski.

According to LaMotte, high-intensity interval training like boxing can decrease your risk for cardiovascular illnesses. 

“It gives you a sense of empowerment and it’s just a great overall activity and it’s great for those who don’t like running too,” said LaMotte.

In addition to lowering your blood pressure, cholesterol, and maintaining a healthy weight, boxing can be a stress reliever. In fact, the motto at Title is “Leave it on the bag.”

“The heavy bag can be anything. It can be life’s stress, financial difficulties, or anything that an individual is dealing with. That bag can be an outlet for that,” said LaMotte.

LaMotte also states boxing is more than just using your hands. It’s a total body workout.

“There’s footwork so that can help with balance and coordination. Some of the defensive moves, the ducks, the slips, can help engage the core. And I tell you there’s nothing else that I’ve ever done that helps me trim the midsection like boxing has been able to do,” said LaMotte.

The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of regular aerobic activity each week or 75 minutes of intense training.

“I actually look forward to getting up in the morning. I’m part of a 5 a.m. crew and you actually want to be here,” said Horzelski.

Title Boxing Club has professionally trained coaches who encourage participants to go at their own pace and have fun.

Title Boxing Club offers classes seven days a week starting as early as 5 a.m. and your first class free. If you have any medical conditions you should consult with your doctor prior to taking a class. To learn more, visit their website or social media pages @titleboxingbatonrouge.