The Boxing world can be intimidating to those who’ve never peaked inside.
Everything from the clanging of metal chains to the slapping of leather on leather as glove assaults bag can give the certain impression of a machoistic culture
But look a little deeper and you find the comradery, discipline and most importantly the fitness you can get from boxing is in huge supply.
Pretty much any sort of martial arts, a field in which we’re including boxing, are one of the most effective ways to get in tip-top shape. Whether you’re looking to spar, fight or simply to get fighting fit – boxing, MMA and fight style classes such as boxercise are fantastic ways to lose the pounds and develop functional muscle.
The high intensity interval style training sessions revolve around big muscle groups alongside speed and endurance training – and what’s more, classes are fun!
Footwork
Before you start trying to take out the frustrations born of existing in 2017 on a frozen cow torso a la Rocky, you first need to create a solid base on which to stand.
A basic boxing stance is achieved by taking a small step with your lead (non-dominant) leg. Rotate both feet outwards by about 45˚ stand forward slightly on the front foot. The right footwork will stop you from being grounded, falling over your own feet and will ensure you have the balance you need to get optimum power from your punches.
The following video is a great resource to working your ideal boxing stance.
Combinations
Hefty right hands may knock people out but combinations score points – and points, as well know, make prizes. Though many different attacking combinations exist in stand-up sports, the first combinations that you are likely learn will no doubt be the jab, cross and various hooks.
These techniques are best learned separately from each other and worked slowly into combinations with each punch leading or following another based on the movement required at the time. For example, a jab may be the least effective punch in terms of damage but when applied as a set up for a cross it can be devastating.
Shadow boxing around a mirror is a great way to work on the mechanics of each movement and practice fluid, slick punches.
Remember that what goes out, must come back in immediately as throwing a punch opens up the guard to the possibility of attack leaving the body open to exploitation.
Minimise the possibility of this and maximise your output by performing a learned combination.
Check out the resources available here for tips on how to create the best combination attacks.
Defence
It may not be exactly glamorous but then ask Floyd Mayweather how glamorous he feels, we’re pretty sure we know what he’ll say.
A solid defence is one of the most important aspects of boxing and beds its roots in both footwork and a solid guard. A traditional strong guard is close to the chin with the elbows tucked in towards the stomach for easy defence of the abdomen.
By manipulating the position of the body and the hands the boxer can either block, parry, evade or intercept a punch or combination. Blocking may be the most common way to avert disaster and evading may look the slickest but parrying and intercepting attacks are by far the most effective in terms of returning blows.
Interception requires a great level of insight as to the opponents fighting style and can be horrifically effective as the oppositions energy and momentum is met by yours. Parrying a shot is also a sure-fire way to get inside your opponent as it uses their own momentum to knock them off balance and open up areas of the body usually closed off via the guard. Want to know more about the guard?
Check out this website for more information.
Boxing Kit for Beginners
Hand wraps: The first point of contact in boxing, the hands, take an enormous amount of impact due to the energy transfer from your body to a bag – or the head of your opponent. Hand wraps offer protection to the wrist and knuckles during impact which reduces the chance of injury to these areas.
Gloves: Generally speaking, the heavier the glove – the harder your workout. This is due to the constant static motion the hands up during the guard and the added weight whilst throwing punches. For those simply looking to hit the bag around and occasionally work some HIIT training into their routine a lighter glove will be more than sufficient but for those wanting to spar, fight or even just burn more calories a heavier glove is a great way to improve your upper body strength and arm power quickly. Remember it’s about protection for the hands, not style!
The Physical Company Pro-Like Leather Sparring Gloves could be just what you’re looking for, as they’re ideal for beginners and for use as a boxer-cise or sparring glove.
Mouthguard: If you do get in to some sparring, you’re always better off safe than sorry, you don’t want to break any teeth trying to perfect your technique and timing.
That’s why a mouthguard, or gumshield if you will, is an absolutely vital piece of kit when you get in to training.
The Opro mouthguard is the official gumshield of the UFC and is absolutely perfect for combat sports as well as spots like Rugby.
Bag: Though most boxing gyms are incredibly receiving of new starters, the idea of dingy gyms and shared sweat doesn’t sit well with everyone. For those just wanting to stay in shape and workout on their own a punch bag is a fantastic way to get some HIIT training into your routine and a strong upper body and core. Just like with the gloves, the heavier the bag – the harder the workout.
If you’re looking for a bag, try the Exigo Punch Bags which are made from an extremely strong and durable nylon backed polyurethane material and are deal for home use.