FORT WORTH, Texas -- Paulie Ayala retired from the professional boxing ring one year ago this month after a 12-year career. Now, he runs a gym in Texas where his clients learn to get fit by throwing punches.

His clients get a workout from hitting the speed bag, working on toning up their bodies through exercises, and going a round or two with Ayala during a simulated boxing match at the gym in Fort Worth. They also get to work out tensions and frustrations during the process, reported KXAS-TV in Dallas.

"You're hitting those mitts, and it's fun, just fun," Andrea Rotman said. "I love it."

An environment in which genuine boxers train might seem intimidating to the average person. Clients like Rotman, however, can get in a zone and work their bodies to a new state of fitness.

"It's really leaned my upper body," Rotman said. "It's great cardiovascular."

Ayala said he doesn't particularly enjoy taking a punch. Periodically, though, he'll step into the ring and give his clients a chance to work on their mental states in addition to their bodies.

"You get to hit some stuff, and every once in a while, I'll put on a vest," Ayala said. "I still don't like getting hit, but I'll let them hit the vest and get some frustration out."

Ayala preaches consistency and dedication to his clients. Without those traits, even the best fitness program could fall short.

"If you're not consistent with anything -- conditioning, boxing -- it will remain at the same level," he said.

Students such as Rotman have learned to go the entire 12 rounds.

"It's wonderful," she said. "So invigorating."