Be specific to the type of
training required
PUNCH AND SKIP
So what do boxers actually do in their training? The all-round fitness required for boxing is
now being recognised and adapted by mainstream fitness classes and even in schools’ PE
curriculums. Boxer-cise is the term often given to the training method of achieving the
benefits of boxing without also getting the black eyes and cut lips. You can then practice
your jabs, uppercuts, hooks and achieve the aerobic workout you desire. Look for classes at
your local leisure/fitness centres to see when you can start.
It is also no coincidence that boxers are excellent skippers. The level of aerobic fitness
combined with the quick footwork required result in improved endurance and coordination.
Apply this principle to your own sport. Too often when we train for games we sprint in
straight lines, is this realistic? Sprint in all directions, add changes of directions, play with
changes of pace, and include specific skills (e.g. jump to head a ball). By mimicking what
you actually do in a game and including the principle of specificity into your training plan it
will better prepare you for your sporting performance.
Task:
Think about the types of training methods
best suited to your sport. Is there much point
to a shot putter completing continuous
training for their sport?
Be specific to you
Task:
Think about the fitness tests
ME, MYSELF AND I
that will provide you with the
The Olympic boxing team will have had similar aspects to their training but importantly
most relevant information you
there would have been differences. The boxers would have started at different levels of
fitness and have had different requirements based on their fitness, age, weight, number of
need to plan your
fights etc. It is important that your training programme is specific to you. Fitness testing
programme.
will help you determine where you currently are, so you can better plan the best way to get
you to where you want to be
26 SPORT IQ 14-16 : SEPTEMBER 2008