Free local options for blowing off holiday steam

Title Boxing Club offers a complimentary class to first time visitors.

The in-laws are coming. You’re supposed to be cooking. And all of the holiday office treats and parties have you feeling like you’ve eaten enough for three.

For me, at least, there are always a few days around Thanksgiving and Christmas when I feel like I really need to blow off some nervous energy — and some of those extra calories as well. Which is why November and December can be a good time to take advantage of free options offered by local fitness centers.

One good option is the complimentary boxing, kickboxing or MMA (mixed martial arts) class offered at Title Boxing Club, 76th Street and State Line Road. Owned by Prairie Village residents Brian Younger and Kim Nofsinger, Title Boxing opened in April and now offers 33 classes a week.

Nofsinger said during a typical class, people can burn up to 1,000 calories an hour.

“It’s about the best total body workout there is,” she said.

She recommends people who want to take advantage of the complimentary class call ahead to schedule an appointment (913-385-2582).

Another great free option to think about is the Paul Henson YMCA, 4200 W. 79th Street. If you show up and take a tour of the facility, you can get a 14-day trial membership that allows you to do everything a full member could do. This is a particularly good deal if you have little ones you need to think about, since the facility offers child care while you work out.