The art of self-defence, or pugilism, as it used to be known, is a combat sport (and a martial art) where two people wearing protective gloves attempt to punch each other according to a strict set of rules. Unlike some martial arts, you can only use your fists to strike the opponent and this sport has been around for centuries, in one form or another.
Amateur Boxing
Many young people start boxing training and like it enough to wish to compete at an amateur level; three 3-minute rounds with a referee who is also the judge. Boxers are graded according to weight, with many different weight classes from featherweight to super-heavyweight and everything in between. You would only compete against boxers in your weight class, and, of course, ability and experience ate also taken into account. A raw novice would never get into the ring with an experienced fighter, at least not in a serious manner; the instructor would ‘spar’ with their students and other students of similar weight and ability would also be paired up. If you are looking to take up boxing in Reading, there is a great gym on your doorstep, and you can pay them a visit and watch how the training happens.
Training
Boxing is the art of not getting hit, so footwork is crucial; indeed, skipping is part of boxing training for that very reason; one has to be nimble and agile, being able to shift your weight from one foot to the other, while using the hips and shoulders to generate power when punching. Initially, you would focus on strength and conditioning, hitting a bag to practice striking. Many enthusiasts face challenges in finding adequate space for practice, especially when considering the logistics of using a heavy bag in an apartment, but with the right guidance, it’s entirely possible.
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3-Minute Stints
All boxing training is based on 3-minute stints, as this is the duration of a single round, with 1-minute rests between rounds. This is only a short time for the body to recover and your trainer does what he can in such a short time; he would have you breathing deeply and he would give you instructions based on what he sees.
Sparring
Only when your trainer thinks you are ready would you be allowed to spar with another boxer and you would both wear headguards and gum protectors. Sparring is as close as you can get to the real thing; boxers of all ages and levels spar regularly, to put into practice the techniques they have learned.
Fitness & Self-Defence
Most of those who train, do so for the high fitness level that boxing requires, plus the self-defence capabilities, which could save your life one day! Here in the UK, combat sports are growing in popularity, as parents encourage their kids to learn how to take care of themselves; sadly, we live in a violent world and knowing how to defend against attack is something we all need.
Wherever you happen to live, you’re never far away from a boxing gym and the benefits are many for those who can handle the gruelling training.
