Are Boxing Gyms Good For Beginners?
Are you looking for a fun way to get fit? Or perhaps you’re keen for a competitive edge and are looking to train in a combat sport? Whatever the reason may be, you will find boxing has many benefits such as cardio training, self-discipline, and building confidence. If you’re wondering how to get started in boxing, this guide will breakdown the basic information you need to know to ease those first class jitters.
The benefits of going to a boxing gym
The rise in popularity of boxing gyms has been a significant trend in the fitness world over the last few years and for good reason.
The truth is that the explosion in the popularity of boxing classes is only just beginning. It’s not just your family, friends, or colleagues that have suddenly transformed into boxing enthusiasts. We’re seeing the trend catch on among celebrities, models, and social media influencers who also turn to this excellent and effective workout strategy.
Boxing classes certainly teach you how to box, but it’s not all about getting into the ring and facing off against an opponent.
Done properly and with the proper guidance of a trainer, boxing classes provide a complete full body workout. In addition to working the back, shoulders, arms, legs and core, it’s also a great way to fit in cardiovascular training as well.
Many people who have chosen to start training in boxing have also noticed multiple mental health benefits. Boxing has been known to relieve stress due to the mood-enhancing endorphins that are released with every workout. Many boxers report that it has also improved their mental self-discipline, concentration, and self-confidence.
Are boxing classes suitable for beginners
The short answer: yes! Many boxing gyms welcome members of all ages, experience and skill levels.
Boxing classes are taken by highly trained and experienced fighters who know how to pitch a training session and teach boxing techniques suitable for everyone, regardless of your level of fitness or martial arts background.
Every experienced fighter you see has been through the same steps you’ve been through. Your trainer understands what it’s like to walk into a boxing gym for the first time and feel nothing but nerves. Trainers don’t expect you to turn up on your first day with the perfect punch or existing knowledge of boxing, that’s what they’re here for.
Choosing your boxing gym
Often when people first start their boxing journey, they encounter the stress of trying to find a boxing gym for beginners. A good boxing gym will have professional trainers who have the knowledge and experience to train people of all abilities. You won’t be a beginner forever so ideally you want a gym with trainers that can effectively explain techniques to someone who has never thrown a punch before, to being able to provide guidance and corrections to more seasoned boxers.
A good start for choosing your boxing gym is to decide what it is you want to get out of your training. There are some boxing gyms that are focused on creating competitive fighters while other gyms are purely for fitness or self-defense, then there are some that provide a happy balance. Knowing what kind of training you’re after will help you find a suitable gym.
If you’re looking for the best place to learn boxing, Corporate Box Gym has programs for all skill levels. Everyone gets days where they feel lazy or want to skip training because the classes are clashing with other commitments in their day. Corporate Box Gym has 24/7 access and a flexible schedule so you can train at a time that is suitable for you.
If you’re wondering how to find a boxing gym don’t be scared to ask around! Boxing is increasingly becoming a popular fitness sport and you’re bound to know someone who might be able to provide a recommendation. Good gyms for beginners will often offer a free class or will have a few introductory sessions to help you familiarise yourself with the basics of boxing.
What do I need to bring to my first class
Feeling prepared for your first class can help ease your nerves, but this doesn’t mean that you need to go out and buy the most expensive boxing outfit or top of the range gloves. Before you book in for your trial or first class, ask the trainer what you will need.
You might also be wondering ‘are boxing shoes necessary’, before going out and buying any make sure to ask the trainer as different gyms have different gym etiquette when it comes to footwear. Some gyms recommend boxing shoes while other gyms want all fighters to be barefoot when on the mats.
As far as what to wear to boxing class, comfort is key. Well fitting shorts and a t-shirt are often ideal as they let you breathe and move freely. Avoid wearing anything that has straps as this can become a hazard to yourself and any potential training partners.
While most boxing gyms will have water facilities it is highly recommended that you bring your own water bottle. Boxing is a sport that involves bursts of intense exercise so you will get hot and sweaty. You will find that having your own water bottle will be very convenient.
The only thing that is recommended you purchase before your first class is a pair of hand wraps and a mouth guard. Hand wraps help to keep your wrists and hands protected in the gloves while punching, plus they serve as an extra hygiene barrier if you’re using communal gloves. While it is highly unlikely that you will be sparring with anyone in your first class, accidents do happen so a mouth guard will keep your teeth safe. Both these items are cheap to buy and are essential to keep you safe.
What to expect at my first boxing class
The first boxing class will often involve a tour of the gym’s amenities such as bathrooms, gym equipment, and the training space. Always turn up that little bit early so you can allow for time to meet your instructor or the staff at your gym so they can give you a quick introductory chat and tour.
Class will often begin with some stretches and a basic warm up. These are important to ensure that your muscles are nice and relaxed and ready to go. Warm ups tend to vary depending on your trainer and the class you’re training, but it will usually involve rounds of skipping or shadow boxing. There’s no shame if you’re struggling with the warm up activities, the instructor knows it’s your first day and you won’t be the first beginner that’s attended their class.
In this class you will learn the absolute basics of boxing such as how to stand correctly, how to properly position your arms, the difference between a jab and a cross, and how to become comfortable with throwing these punches. Your instructor or pad partner will provide you with various corrections throughout the session but will also refrain from overloading you with too much information.
While your boxing gym isn’t a school, it is still a class after all so be prepared to concentrate. There is a lot of repetition and mirroring your instructor when training so you will need to be focused to make sure you get the punch combinations right. It’s almost expected that you will get confused or lost when copying a punch combination, but there’s no need to let this stress you. With regular training over time you will find this process easier and easier. All you need to do is focus and try your best.
It’s expected that you might feel a mix of emotions during your first session such as excitement, nervousness, confusion but most importantly fun. One thing you’re almost guaranteed to feel the next day, however, is sore muscles. While it’ll be uncomfortable, it just means you worked hard and were training your muscles in a new way. This pain isn’t permanent, simply think of it as a reward for the hard work you put in!
The instructors at Corporate Box Gym are in your corner! It’s never too late to start boxing and we’re here to help everyone, no matter their skill level. Book in today to claim your free trial.
