Top Training Tips for Boxers

Boxing is a world-renowned sport that has captivated athletes and spectators since it began. It’s a great way to build your strength and coordination, as well as give your heart a good workout. If you’re interested in taking up boxing, or are looking to develop your skills in the ring, below are a few useful training tips that you can work on in your sessions at the gym.

Stay Hydrated

This is important no matter what the workout. Dehydration can be dangerous, and if you begin to feel dizzy or faint it's time to take a break and rehydrate. Try drinking water at regular intervals in your training and between each fight – ideally, you should be doing this at least once an hour. It will help you to focus and keep your energy levels up during your sessions.

Track Your Fitness

If you want to perform at your best you need to be thinking about your health and fitness when you’re outside the gym, too. Try to introduce more protein into your diet, eat more white meats and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Your body also needs fats to balance your health, but avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and salt, swapping them out for things like avocados, eggs, cheese, fish, and nuts. You can track your fitness through apps if you find this method easier, or look at purchasing a health tracking smart watch so you can get a more accurate idea of how your progress is going.

Focus on Your Form

The strength of your punches is a part of boxing, but the most important thing you should be focusing on is your form and technique. If this isn’t right it can throw off your game and you won’t be performing at your best. To practice your form better in the gym, try to hit the bag more lightly and learn to control your movements better. There are also breathing techniques to be aware of when you are throwing your punches, and don’t forget to spend time working on your defensive moves. 

Take Breaks

Pushing yourself is a good thing in terms of fitness, but pushing yourself too hard isn’t going to benefit you. If you can feel yourself getting tired take a break and gather your strength before returning to another round of training. Stretch yourself out, catch your breath, eat a snack that’s going to help you recover and boost your energy. Each training session, see if you can push yourself a little harder, but you should never train until you can’t physically move anymore, that’s just counterproductive.

Get a Trainer

If you’re new to boxing or have been experimenting a little bit with it at the gym, try to find a professional trainer to work with you. You will see much better results and they will be able to give you great advice on how to improve as well as giving you tips on what you can be doing at home. At the very least, find other boxing enthusiasts at your gym and ask if they’d be willing to train with you so you can give each other feedback and enhance your performance. 

Boxing is a great sport and an excellent way to increase your strength and stay fit. If you’re interested in pursuing this activity, use the tips above to help you get started.