A gym in Gloucester County put a unique spin on exercise during the Valentine's Day weekend. Watch video
EAST GREENWICH -- A man stands in the center of a busy room, bouncing slightly on the balls of his feet as he listens to the thumping bass of the high energy music cranking out of the speaker behind him.
He takes a deep breath, readying himself for the challenge that still lies ahead. Raising his fists up, he takes up a defensive stance as he locks eyes with the familiar face in front of him. He's ready.
Just then, a timer goes off. The man pulls his elbow back then launches his fist straight toward his intended target - a picture, of all things. But not one of just anyone. It is a picture of himself.
"That's me 117 pounds ago," Kevin Dougherty said, explaining his choice to pummel his own image. "Some people might be shredding their ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend, but I wanted to shred the ex-me."
Dougherty, along with dozens of others spent their Saturday afternoon shredding only calories, but also various forms of exes at East Greenwich iLoveKickboxing.com fitness studio's "Shred Your Ex" event.
During Valentine's Day weekend, members of studios nationwide had the opportunity to bring in photos of someone or something they disliked in order to punch, kick, and otherwise shred up the images all in the name of love.
"Shred Your Ex's main focus is to give people a killer workout and to bring people together for Valentine's Day," said Katie Burns, manager and instructor of the East Greenwich franchise. "Since Valentine's Day is usually such a Hallmark holiday it's kind of cool to do something different."
In addition to rounds which included various kickboxing techniques, lightning rounds, and partner exercises, Shred Your Ex gave attendees the opportunity to win prizes, listen to some great music, and to take home a rose and Valentine's Day card at the end of the class.
Although the theme of the workout is unique, it is also relaxing for those who need to relieve extra stress during the holiday.
"Getting to punch and kick something or someone is therapeutic," said iLoveKickboxing instructor Shyra Dehner. "Shred Your Ex is a great event to come and better yourself not only physically but also mentally. You can relieve stress and also get fit."
While some chose to use pictures of ex-lovers, others brought along images that represented something they wished to cut out of their lives, including food items, disliked acquaintances, or, as in one case, a photograph of a particular presidential candidate.
"I wanted to bring an empty bag of chocolate today because it's definitely my downfall," said Anna Malone. "Physically removing something from your life and knowing you're going to remove this negativity by shredding it is just a huge stress relief."
According to Burns, the ability to "beat up" an ex is not the only draw for those attending the event. Others joined in on the event simply because they wanted something to do during a holiday that is typically focused on romantic relationships.
"We are bringing people who don't have something to do for Valentine's Day here to kick some serious butt," said Burns. "Anyone who doesn't have a valentine can come here and we are going to be their valentine - or at least their anti-valentine."
She added: "I don't think there's a holiday out there for people you don't like. It's awesome that people are coming out and putting up pictures and beating the crap out of them. It's so satisfying."
Though the event was focused on providing an alternative to the hearts and flowers of Valentine's Day, Shred Your Ex was not just a fun way to burn calories. For many, it was a way to relieve stress and gain a positive outlook on life.
"This is a great way for people to celebrate Valentine's Day in a different way," said Rebecca Bradshaw. "Not only do you get a workout but you relieve a lot of stress and you get to leave the studio feeling great about yourself."