The majority of people that go to boxing gyms don’t necessarily enjoy sparring with other people on the ring. Many do it to keep fit, and if you’re reading this, then you probably feel the same way.
After all, boxing burns many calories, and it’s a great way to keep your weight in check. It comes to surprise then that boxing has become increasingly popular over the years. Nowadays, people from all walks of life engage in boxing training sessions on a weekly or even daily basis.
What is a typical boxing training session like?
Like most exercise programs, a boxing training session typically begins with stretching and warm-up exercises. This is done to slowly increase blood flow to the muscles making them more resistant to injuries (pulled muscles).
Your boxing trainer will ask you to spend a few minutes doing aerobic exercises like skipping and running after which, it’s time to work the punching bags. Most of the workout will be spent on practising how to punch and pulling off combinations often seen in boxing. You’ll also spend a significant amount of time doing floor exercises like push-ups, planks and ab crunches.
A typical boxing training session lasts around an hour, and it’s open to people of all ages regardless of gender. Once you’ve mastered the basics and reached a level of physical fitness, you can spar with somebody inside the ring, although this is entirely optional.
Of course, if you do engage in a sparring match, then you must have your doctor’s permission. In some cases, your trainer will require a note stating that you’ve undergone a check-up and that you’re healthy enough to box inside the ring. Even then, the sparring session will be limited to light contact only with all the protective gear (mouthguard and headgear).
Typical questions in boxing training
What kind of gloves to wear?
You’ll need a pair of training gloves to join a boxing training program. These gloves are designed for boxing but slightly different from those used in competitive matches. Boxing training gloves are generally heavier and contain more padding for guarding against injuries.
Speaking of weight, boxing training gloves also vary in terms of weight (ounces). People with small hands can make do with a 10 oz training gloves. If you have big hands, then a pair of 14 oz training gloves will likely suffice. There are even some designed for children (6 to 8 oz).
What skipping rope to use?
Skipping exercises are an integral part of boxing training sessions, so it makes sense to buy your own. They are available in different sizes ( 8 to 10 feet), and the right choice generally depends on your height.
For example, 8-foot skipping ropes are ideal for people who are less than 5 feet and 6 inches in height.
Genuine or Fake Leather?
The answer depends on how much money you’re looking to spend on your boxing gloves. As a rule of thumb, leather ones tend to be more expensive, but tend to last longer than synthetic counterparts.
While some boxing gyms offer training gloves that you can use, it’s still best to buy your own for hygienic reasons.
