Boxing is a sport which has a massive fan following worldwide. Though it might seem like an uncomplicated sport initially, there is more to it than just throwing punches. People interested in boxing must train their body and mind rigorously to achieve the best results in competitions. If you are looking to improve your boxing training, defense, and punching to participate in tournaments, there are some important factors to keep in mind.

Tips for beginners

Buy the appropriate gear

• Punching bag (heavy bag)- This bag is ideal for beginners and experienced individuals who wish to achieve their daily practice and training goals. Punching bags are available as hanging or free-standing bags. The first option is suitable for footwork and is preferred by experienced boxers. However, the latter is easier to move around and cheaper than a hanging bag.
• Boxing gloves – There is a range of boxing glove options, which means you must keep certain factors in mind to determine the right type for you. Boxing gloves should fit snugly, and your fingers should touch the top of the gloves. Furthermore, the gloves should allow you to make a fist without feeling uncomfortable.

Other essential equipment

Besides these vital elements above, you will also need other equipment.

• A skipping rope could help perfect your foot movements and assist with endurance, general fitness, and coordination.
• A mouthguard protects the teeth and prevents one from swallowing any teeth that may get knocked loose after a punch. You need to boil the guard in water to make it pliable and then bite down on it until it fits around your teeth.
• Hand wraps are worn under boxing gloves and help provide additional support and protect the tiny bones in your hands, which are at risk of breaking from the impact of a punch. Hand wraps also help soak up sweat and prevent the build-up of bacteria and odor in the boxing gloves.

Stay properly hydrated

One of the first things that you need to keep in mind is to stay hydrated at all times. Boxing is a physically taxing sport that could take a toll on your body if you do not drink enough water. So if your hydration levels are low, you could hit a heavy bag, spar, or work on footwork, and you would be burning energy and calories. And while you might not feel tired, worn down, or thirsty, the effects of dehydration may occur suddenly, which might keep you from returning to the sport for a couple of days.

Sign up for boxing tutorials

There’s a lot to learn from boxing, but you can’t teach it all to yourself. Therefore, it is advisable to sign up for offline or online tutorials that impart knowledge about the basics of boxing. Several professionals offer online and offline tutorials to teach basic aspects, including how to throw a jab, a cross, or the proper stance. But if you have cleared the basics and want to learn more about how to ace the sport, consider signing up for classes offered by experts. Attending classes and working with an experienced boxing coach could help improve your skill and physique. It is pertinent to note that trying out a boxing routine without proper guidance may lead to injuries. Therefore, having a coach to guide you could help avoid injuries, and maximize safety, especially if you are new to the sport.

Procuring a boxing license

Many aspiring boxers seek a license to participate in amateur or professional boxing matches. If you wish to pursue a career in boxing, you should know that there are a couple of requirements that may vary from one state to the next.

• You must pass a standard physical examination, such as filling up documentation, including the USA Boxing’s form.
• An application must also be submitted to the respective organization. Furthermore, a fee may also be applicable, which could range from $20 to $100 and differ from one state to another. You should remember that a license secured in one state may or may not be valid in another state based on their current regulations.
• Most licensing organizations and major sanctioned events require candidates to pass a mandatory health test at amateur and professional levels.

Becoming a trainer

You will need a different certification to work in jobs that involve coaching other individuals.

• A prospective coach must be at least 18 years old and receive certification for Level 1 through Level 3 coaching. The certification must come through a local center or USA Boxing offices.
• To become a level 4 coach, one has to be certified by the National USA Boxing Office.
• An individual’s certification also depends on their current level of coaching. A higher level features rigorous and thorough training.
• Certifications are valid for 24 months and must be renewed accordingly.