Boxing, like many other sports, can seem very much an 'adult' activity. It's aggressive, combative, and calls to mind images of broken teeth, black eyes and bleeding faces. In reality, boxing is actually an incredibly fun sport and fitness regimen that actually doesn't require you to feel battered and broken. Boxing workouts are actually great for people of all ages, as it builds cardiovascular fitness and strength through bodyweight exercises. While you may want to do your own risk assessment before you start fighting, you should feel confident knowing that there is a place in boxing for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Not only is boxing a great workout, it is an excellent way to manage stress. What could be more stress-relieving than releasing your aggression through punching and fighting? As you hone your fighting skills and build strength, you will also find that you can take your confidence and assertiveness to the next level. You'll also meet new people, be part of a new fitness community, and have a new hobby you can explore for years to come.
This article explores how and why you can get started in boxing at any age: how to get started, and what the best ways are to learn this incredibly popular sport.
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How do I Learn Boxing?
It may surprise you to learn that boxing is easy to get started in - though getting into the ring for a match will take lots of preparation to do it safely! Start by thinking about your own personal profile as an athlete: do you have any injuries? Underlying health conditions? Do you already have a regular fitness regimen? What are your long term goals: to fight, increase fitness or lose weight?
Should your ultimate goal be to fight at an amateur or professional level, your best place to start is a local boxing gym. Boxing gyms are unique in that they specialize in the sport, and are often affiliated with provincial boxing associations. To fight at an amateur level, you will need to demonstrate that you have trained for a specific amount of time at a recognized facility. Boxing gyms will also give you access to the best equipment for the sport, and will be filled with athletes who can give you insights to the kinds of exercises you should be doing to train. You should also be able to connect with a trainer, and even gain access to live matches you can watch at they gym. This is an excellent way to see if fighting is right for you.
If you are unsure of whether or not to sign up for a boxing gym, you can start with your own self-directed learning. The internet is an excellent resource to start your learning, and you will find no shortage of videos and social media posts dedicated to introducing you to the world of boxing and fighting.
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Is a Boxing Workout for Beginners Class Worth It?
Beginner boxing workout classes are a great place to introduce yourself to the sport without getting into the ring. These classes are also excellent if you want to simply get a good workout, learn the basic punches, and meet others who may be on the same journey as you. So what can you expect from a beginners boxing class? That will very much depend on the instructor and the gym you go to, but you can likely expect:
- a warm-up routine to get your muscles moving
- an introduction to different types of punches, such as upper cut, hook, cross, and jab
- opportunities for repeated practice with a partner or a punching bag
- an introduction to practice defensive moves, such as ducking
- use of a strike shield to safely practice partner exercises
Beginner boxing classes can be a lot of fun, and an effective instructor will keep you motivated and interested in the sport. These classes are generally open to adults of all ages, but you should be able to do modified versions of the movement if you have any specific physical needs.
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What is the Best Age for Kickboxing Training?
Kickboxing is a style of boxing that derived from Muay Thai and Karate, combining both kicking and punching. It is a popular professional sport, and specialty martial arts gyms and studios will offer classes.
The sport is not recommended for small children, but can be started as young as six years old. Smaller kids might benefit from more classic martial arts instruction to build a strong foundation for kickboxing. However, depending on your child's interest and energy levels, you may want to get them started early?
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Is Boxing for Kids Appropriate?
Youth boxing lessons are offered by some boxing gyms where there is enough interest to fill a class. If you have a child that seems like a good fit for the sport, give them an opportunity to try a class or a workout video to see if it resonates with them. Like any sport, boxing can be a great way to build confidence, make friends, and stay healthy and strong.
Can You Learn Boxing at Home?
Boxing enthusiasts that have a hard time making it to the gym for boxing training may find learning from home a much more feasible option. Let's take a quick look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of learning boxing at home.
Advantages
Probably the biggest advantage of learning boxing from home is that you are not tied to any class schedule or commute. If you are already working from home, you can literally walkover to your designated workout area and perform your own exercises or follow along with a video. If you have access to outdoor space, you can enjoy a workout in the fresh air - which is excellent for your mental health and wellness. Many trainers can stream a workout or lesson to you if you want something more personalized, or may even be able to meet you at your home to work in your space.
Working out from home is perfect for busy parents who may not be able to find childcare easily. You can even work out with your kids, and make boxing a fun family event!
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Disadvantages
While working out from home can be convenient, there are some disadvantages that are worth considering that may make you opt for a gym environment. Learning to box at a gym can provide you with opportunities to try equipment you simply do not have at home, and bring you into contact with other athletes that can help you with your form. At-home workouts require a lot of personal motivation - it can be easy to tone down your workout when you aren't exercising alongside other people or have a coach encouraging you to do more. You may also miss the opportunity to spar with a partner.
Take an Online Kickboxing Class
Are you confident that working out from home is right for you? Mix up your fitness regimen with a kickboxing class to ensure you get a full body workout. For the greatest experience, you may want to install a punching bag in your basement or in an area of your home where you have lots of space. If you set up your home exercise space with lots of beautiful new equipment, you may find very little reason to leave your home!
Hire a Private Boxing Coach
Learning to box at home is easy when you hire a private boxing coach. While it may sound expensive, a private boxing trainer can be one of the best investments you make into your fitness. Many people report that they work out much harder in a one-to-one environment, which a private boxing coach can facilitate. A private coach can tailor a workout just for you, and may be able to offer additional services like nutritional consultation and additional strength training. You can even include your partner, children, or friends to make the most of having a coach around - just let them know what your needs and desires are so they can plan accordingly. Boxing coaches can work with you virtually or in-person at your home or a gym, or meet you in their own private studio.
Finding the perfect private boxing coach couldn't be easier thanks to Superprof Canada. Use the site to find the perfect boxing coach for your needs, whether you are just starting to box or are looking to enhance your existing skills. Simply use the search function to find a coach near you, and message them directly through the site to see if they have availability and rates that work for your schedule and your budget. Some coaches may offer a trial class, or be able to share their own method of training.
Hire a private boxing coach on Superprof today!
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