Knockout North End, a boxing and fitness studio located in the heart of Boston’s North End, is expected to open in early May 2018. Offering group exercise, personal training options, and KO jump, which is an intense jump rope based circuit, and enhanced by the enthusiasm and expertise of some of the city’s best trainers and instructors, Knockout North End is a dynamic addition to Boston’s boutique fitness scene.
Knockout North End is the second North End fitness venture from owner and instructor Melina DiPaola, who opened indoor cycling studio Ride North End in July 2015. DiPaola was inspired at a young age to pursue a career in fitness after being diagnosed with a tumor on the brain stem at age five, which caused balance and coordination issues. DiPaola began going to the gym with her father at age 11 so she could work on strength and balance – and by age 25, her goal of opening her own fitness studio one day was born with the launch of Ride North End. Now she is certified in spin, Megaformer, rowing and boxing.
“Fitness is not only a passion of mine, but of so many Bostonians, and it’s been especially exciting to be a key part of the wellness revolution in my home neighborhood of the North End,†said DiPaola. “We have so much to offer here from spin to yoga to running, and boxing is the perfect complement to round out that exercise mix.â€
To celebrate the opening, DiPaola will offer one week of classes for donations of any amount to Boston Children’s Hospital, where she was treated for her brain stem tumor.
 Boasting an industrial yet also aesthetic vibe, Knockout North End features custom-made steel beams from which the boxing bags hang, beautiful lighting in colors like red and blue that are customized to each class type, and high ceilings. The space, which is approximately 2,000 square feet, will also host a 12×12 foot boxing ring, strength training equipment and boot camp gear. Storage cubbies will be available for every client, in addition to two private bathrooms that will also serve as changing rooms.
 The classes, which vary in 45 to 60 minutes, will be taught by DiPaola and other leading instructors in the area, as well as some amateur and pro boxers. While each class – Knockout, KO bootcamp and KO jump – will provide participants with a high-powered, quality workout, those of all levels are encouraged to take classes (although some jump rope experience is recommended for KO jump!)
 Knockout is a 45-minute group class combining intense heavy bag intervals with bodyweight and strength exercises – set to an environment of dim lighting and pumping music, allowing participants to work hard, sweat and tune everything else out. KO bootcamp is 45 minutes of combination calisthenics, kettle bells, strength bands and other equipment to create an intense and full-body workout. Lastly, KO jump is jump rope intervals combined with strength exercises to get everyone’s hearts racing.
Class attendees are welcome to bring their own boxing gloves for Knockout and gloves will also be available to rent for a minimal fee. Private instruction will also be available by appointment – appointments can be made online or by emailing Melina DiPaola at [email protected], and pricing will vary based on the instructor. Classes will be available to reserve online up to seven days in advance, and up to just minutes prior to the class. Walk-ins are also welcome.
 Knockout North End is located at 89 Salem Street. The studio will be open seven days a week and the full schedule will soon be available at www.konorthend.com; the “Founding Member†offer is available for purchase now. Visit the site today to sign up for newsletter updates and follow Knockout North End on Instagram at @knockoutnorthend.