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Boxing tips

Why I’m sticking with boxing

Recently, I met up with a friend who works in a commercial gym to a training session together.  It had been a while since I last stepped into a mainstream gym, and a lot has changed in the world of fitness.

The place was filled with shiny new equipment, and it seemed like everything had gone digital.  Most of the machines  seemed to require a degree in programming to operate.  I wisely avoided those, honestly, I had enough trouble just trying to open my locker.

That said, both gym areas were absolutely beautiful. I participated in a reformer Pilates class, which was a pleasant surprise and actually the perfect choice for my tired and injured body.

What struck me most, however, was that not much has changed in the world of self training.

In the cardio and machine area, I saw plenty of people, but not many seemed to be doing much. Most were on their phones between sets, which makes me wonder: if you’re doing low-impact exercises, do you really need 5-10 minute breaks between sets?

The weights area, as expected, was dominated by buff guys, with the occasional “fit girl” in tiny shorts and a sports bra lifting weights with a personal trainer. It still felt intimidating for the average gym-goer.

What was also noticeable was the lack of social interaction. Aside from the staff, who all seemed to know each other, and a few naked women in the changing rooms yelling across the room to each other (seriously, why do they do that?), there was very little connection between gym members. The instructors were polite but clearly didn’t have time for in-depth conversations.

To be honest, it all felt a little soulless, and for many people, it seemed pointless if they were actually looking for fitness results.

Personally, I need a coach to motivate me through a workout. I know that, without one, I won’t push myself as hard as I should. And let’s be real—time is precious. I wish I could spend hours in the gym, but like many of us, I’m lucky if I can spare two hours a week to fit my training in.  

So, my conclusion? These gyms are fantastic if you have plenty of time and money to spare. But if you’re looking to get fit quickly and on a budget, stick with boxing!

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Boxing tips

Kids Boxing Classes in South West London: How to Get Started and What to Expect

So, your child is interested in boxing—great choice! Boxing is an incredible way for kids to build confidence, stay active, and learn valuable life skills. At 12 Rounds Boxing Gym in South West London, we’re here to help your child start their boxing journey on the right foot. Here’s everything you need to know about getting started and what to expect from our kids’ boxing classes.

How to Get Started

The best way to introduce your child to boxing is by booking a taster session This session allows your child to experience a real boxing class in a supportive and welcoming environment.

It’s also a chance for our coaches to assess your child’s skill level and recommend the best class for them to join.

1. Kids Intro Session

Our Kids Intro Session is designed for first-timers. Upon purchasing, the session is valid for one month, during which your child can attend one class. There is a small fee for the taster class, and we provide a pair of 12RB boxing gloves for your child’s first session with us.

Please ensure the class time you’ve booked before confirming your booking, as sessions are non-refundable and non-transferable. Once purchased, you can reserve your child’s taster slot via our online calendar.

● For kids aged 11-16 years, book the Kids Intro Session on Tuesdays at 5pm

● For kids aged 6-10 years, book the Thursday 5pm kids’ class.

2. Choose the Right Class

At 12 Rounds Boxing, we offer a variety of kids’ boxing classes tailored to different age groups and experience levels.

Our classes are divided into two main age groups: 6-10 years and 11-16 years. Within these groups, we cater to both beginners and more experienced young boxers.

Our coaches will guide you in selecting the class that best suits your child’s needs.

  1. Beginner Classes (Ages 6-10): These classes focus on teaching the basics of boxing technique, which are then practised on punch bags. The programme also includes fun games and fitness drills to keep younger kids engaged and active.
  2. New Beginner Classes (Ages 11-16): Designed for older kids just starting out, these sessions teach fundamental boxing skills like defence and pad work. As they progress, they may also experience some controlled technical sparring.
  3. Experienced Kids Programme: For kids who have completed the beginner programme, these sessions build on their existing skills with more advanced techniques, including punch combinations and defence strategies. The programme also incorporates fitness conditioning and, for some, technical sparring.

3. Get the Right Gear

Safety is our top priority, so it’s important to make sure your child has the proper gear before starting. For all classes, kids will require their own gloves, and for the more advanced sessions, a gum-shield and head guard is also necessary, ensuring your child has everything they need to participate safely and confidently

4. Attend Regular Sessions

Consistency is key to progress in boxing. Once your child has started, encourage them to attend classes regularly. This routine helps them build their skills, improve fitness, and gain confidence.

Plus, they’ll start to form friendships with other kids in their class, making the experience even more enjoyable.

What to Expect in Our Kids’ Boxing Classes

1. A Welcoming Environment

From the moment your child steps into our gym, they’ll be greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our coaches are experienced in working with children and are dedicated to making every session fun, engaging, and safe.

2. Skill Development

Our classes focus on teaching the fundamentals of boxing, including proper stance, footwork, and basic punches. As your child progresses, they’ll learn more advanced techniques and combinations. We take a step-by-step approach to ensure that each child develops their skills at a pace that’s right for them.

3. Physical Fitness

Boxing is an excellent way to keep kids active. Each class includes a mix of cardio, strength training, and boxing drills designed to improve overall fitness. Your child will work on their agility, coordination, and endurance—all while having a great time.

4. Building Confidence and Discipline

Boxing is about more than just physical strength; it’s also about mental resilience. Our classes teach kids the importance of focus, discipline, and perseverance. Over time, you’ll see your child grow in confidence as they overcome challenges and achieve their goals in the ring.

5. Non-Contact Training

For beginners, our classes are non-contact, focusing on technique and control. This allows kids to learn the sport without the pressure of sparring. As they advance and with parental permission, they may be introduced to controlled contact elements, but this is always done in a safe and supportive manner.

6. Fun and Camaraderie

At 12 Rounds Boxing, we believe that boxing should be fun. We create a positive and inclusive environment where kids can enjoy themselves while learning a new skill. The camaraderie that develops among the young boxers is one of the highlights of our classes, as they encourage and support each other every step of the way.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re looking for a way to keep your child active, build their confidence, and teach them valuable life skills, our kids’ boxing classes in Clapham Junction are the perfect place to start.

Book a taster session today, and let us show you how boxing can benefit your child in more ways than one.

At 12 Rounds Boxing Gym, we’re committed to helping every child discover their potential.

Whether they’re just starting out or looking to develop their skills further, we’re here to support them on their boxing journey. Come and join our community—we can’t wait to welcome you!

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Boxing tips

How Boxing Improves Your Kids Focus and Discipline

When most people think of boxing, they picture fast punches, quick footwork, and high-energy workouts. But beyond the physical benefits, boxing is a powerful tool for developing focus and discipline in kids. At our (locally) Famous 12 Rounds Boxing Gym in Clapham Junction, we’ve seen firsthand how this sport transforms young minds. In this article, we’ll highlight just how effective boxing can be for improving kids’ focus and discipline.

We’ve been a fixture in the Clapham Junction community for over a decade, and in that time, we’ve watched countless children come through our doors, each with their own unique challenges. What they all have in common is the ability to grow and improve through the structure and discipline that boxing provides.

What We Have Noticed

It’s no secret that children today face a myriad of distractions—from video games to social media. With so much screen time, it’s more important than ever to find activities that help kids channel their energy and build focus. That’s where boxing comes in, offering a constructive outlet that goes far beyond physical fitness.

Attention Span

At 12 Rounds Boxing Gym, we’ve observed that children who regularly participate in boxing classes tend to show noticeable improvements in their ability to focus on tasks. The discipline required in boxing—learning techniques, following instructions, and staying engaged during training—helps kids develop a sharper attention span. Over time, this increased focus extends beyond the gym, helping them concentrate better in school and other activities.

Behavioural Improvements

We’ve also seen significant positive changes in behaviour among kids who take up boxing. The structure and routine of our training sessions instil discipline and self-control, which often translates into better behaviour at school and at home.

Kids learn to manage their emotions, follow rules, and respect others—skills that are crucial both in and out of the ring. This improvement in behaviour is something we consistently hear about from parents and teachers alike. This is of no surprise we have heard countless times how wild lads have been tamed by the rigour and discipline of boxing.

Academic Performance

Many parents have noticed that their children’s academic performance improves after starting boxing. The focus, discipline, and goal-setting skills learned in our classes often carry over into the classroom. We’ve seen kids who were once easily distracted become more engaged in their studies, particularly in subjects that require sustained concentration, like maths and science.

Boxing helps them build the mental resilience needed to tackle academic challenges with confidence.

These observations highlight a truth that we at 12 Rounds have known for years—boxing is not just about building physical strength; it’s about nurturing the mental and emotional skills that children need to succeed in all areas of life.

How Boxing Helps

So, how exactly does boxing achieve these impressive results? It all comes down to the structure and discipline embedded in the sport. At our very own Clapham Junction Boxing Gym, every session is designed to teach kids the importance of focus, self-control, and perseverance.

  1. Routine and Repetition: Boxing drills require kids to repeat movements until they become second nature. This repetition not only improves their skills in the ring but also helps them develop the discipline needed to tackle tasks in a methodical and focused manner.
  2. Goal Setting: Whether it’s perfecting a jab or mastering footwork, boxing is all about setting and achieving goals. This process teaches kids the value of hard work and determination, skills that translate into better focus and discipline in all areas of life.
  3. Mind-Body Connection: Boxing is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Kids learn to connect their thoughts with their actions, which improves their ability to concentrate and stay on task—whether it’s in the gym, at school, or at home.

Real-Life Impact

The real proof is in the results we see everyday. We’ve had parents come to us amazed at the transformation they’ve seen in their children—kids who were once easily distracted or struggled with self-control are now focused, disciplined, and confident.

One parent shared that their child’s teachers noticed a significant improvement in attention span and behaviour just weeks after starting our boxing programme.

Another mentioned how their child, once shy and withdrawn, now approaches challenges with newfound confidence and focus. We really do believe that boxing changes lives and we are immensely proud of anyone who wants to step foot inside our gym, because we know the transformation they are about to embark upon.

Ready to get started? BOOK NOW

At 12 Rounds Boxing Gym, we really do believe boxing is for everyone, regardless of your goal, age, weight, or standard—and this includes children. You don’t have to compete to get the benefits of boxing, but you do have to commit, and if you commit to us—we will wholeheartedly return the favour.

The Sessions

At 12 Rounds, we know boxing has the power to change lives—especially for kids. So if you’re looking for an activity that can help your child develop focus, discipline, and confidence, why not see for yourself? We offer a range of kids’ sessions designed for ages 6 to 15, with both term-time classes and holiday camps available.

Book a kids’ taster session today, and let us show you how our Kids Boxing Classes in a well equipped Boxing Gym in South West London can make a real difference in your child’s life.

We’re based right next to Clapham Junction station, so drop by and discover the benefits of boxing for your child firsthand.

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Boxing tips

Breaking Down the Benefits of Boxing Training for Kids

Boxing is often seen as a sport reserved for the tough and strong, but at our very own 12 Rounds Boxing Gym in Clapham Junction, we believe it offers incredible benefits for kids as well.

Whether you’re looking for an engaging activity to keep your child active or seeking a way to build their confidence, boxing could be the perfect fit.

We are a community-focused boxing gym, based right next to Clapham Junction, and have been operating for 10 years.We have extended our training into local schools and regularly run programmes throughout term time. If you have an inkling that boxing could benefit your child, don’t hesitate—come and see for yourself.

Let’s break down some of the key benefits of boxing training for kids in our two-floor boxing arena in Clapham Junction, South West London.

1. Physical Fitness

In today’s world, where screens often dominate children’s attention, it’s more important than ever to encourage physical activity. Boxing is a full-body workout that helps kids develop strength, agility, and endurance. Yes, they will sweat, yes, they will burn calories, and yes, their bodies will be pumped full of endorphins, leaving them ravenous for a wholesome meal afterwards.

Our boxing classes in Clapham Junction focus on cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and balance, ensuring that children are not only staying active but are also building a strong foundation for a healthy lifestyle.

And as if you didn’t know, boxing is also an excellent way to burn calories, making it the perfect antidote to the sedentary lifestyle that many children lead these days. A typical kids’ boxing session can burn hundreds of calories, helping to combat the effects of too much screen time and inactivity.

2. Discipline and Focus

Boxing isn’t just about throwing punches; it’s about strategy, technique, and discipline.

Our kids’ boxing classes right next to Clapham Junction station are designed to teach children how to focus their energy, listen to instructions, and improve their techniques over time.

These skills are not only crucial in the ring but also beneficial in the classroom and beyond.

3. Confidence Building

There’s nothing quite like the confidence boost that comes from learning a new skill. As kids progress in their boxing training, they gain a sense of accomplishment that translates into increased self-esteem. This has a snowball effect and starts to compound into other areas of their lives. Our experienced coaches work closely with each child to ensure they feel supported and motivated, helping them to build confidence one punch at a time. They may walk in slouched after a tough day at school, but they walk out with their chests puffed out and shoulders back—guaranteed.

4. Social Interaction

Our boxing classes at 12 Rounds are not just about individual progress; they’re also about teamwork and community. We are all about community.

Kids have the opportunity to meet new friends and learn to work together, whether it’s through partner drills or group activities.

This sense of camaraderie is especially important for children who may struggle with social interactions in other settings.

Seriously, there’s a weird magnetic-type field that takes hold when you share a boxing class—everyone knows how tough it is, and on completion, there is a real sense of shared accomplishment.

5. A Safe Environment

One of the biggest concerns parents might have about boxing is safety. We get it. At 12 Rounds Boxing Gym, we prioritise creating a safe and controlled environment for all our sessions.

Our classes are non-contact, with a strong focus on technique and control. For more advanced children, we may introduce controlled contact elements, but always with the full permission of the parents. Additionally, with our emphasis on respect and sportsmanship, children learn the value of fair play and integrity.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out—we look forward to chatting with anyone interested in learning more about our boxing programmes. But if you’ve heard enough, why not book a taster session and come down to see for yourself?

Interested in taking the first step?

BOOK NOW

At 12 Rounds Boxing Gym, we really do believe boxing is for everyone, regardless of your goal, age, weight, or standard—and this includes children. You don’t have to compete to get the benefits of boxing, but you do have to commit, and if you commit to us—we will wholeheartedly return the favour.

The Sessions

Our kids’ sessions are available for ages 6 to 15, offering a fun and exciting introduction to the sport. We run both term-time classes and holiday camps, with kids split into two age groups: 6-10 years and 11-15 years.

Whether your child is a beginner or has some experience, we have the right class for them. Start by booking a kids’ taster session, where our coach will assess and advise the best starting point for your child. Join us in Clapham and see how Kids Boxing in South West London can benefit your child!

 

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Boxing tips community

Reclaim your fitness routine – how consistency guarantees results

As the sun sets on those blissful summer days, it’s time to shift our focus back to our fitness goals.

While lazy beach afternoons and holiday indulgences might have disrupted our routines, the transition to autumn presents an exciting opportunity to recommit to our fitness journeys.

Embracing routine and consistency can work wonders for our physical and mental well-being, and there’s no better time to get back on track than now.

The Summer Effect: A Break from Routine

Summers laid-back vibe often tempts us to take a break from our regular exercise regimens. BBQs, beach trips, and social gatherings may have taken priority over gym sessions. But now that the season is changing, it’s time to reflect on the benefits of routine and get back into gear.boxing fundamentals

The Power of Routine and Consistency:

Achieve Your Goals: Whether you’re aiming to shed those extra summer pounds or build lean muscle, routine and consistency are your best allies. Consistent exercise helps you make steady progress towards your fitness goals, providing visible results that boost your confidence.

  • Physical Health: Routine workouts enhance cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve flexibility. Regular exercise also supports weight management and helps prevent chronic diseases, making it an investment in your long-term well-being.
  • Mental Well-being: The connection between exercise and mental health is profound. Engaging in consistent physical activity releases endorphins, those feel-good hormones that combat stress and anxiety. Establishing a fitness routine can contribute to better mood stability and mental clarity.
  • Enhanced Discipline: Consistency in the gym spills over into other aspects of your life. The dedication and discipline you develop through regular workouts can positively impact your work,
    relationships, and overall outlook.
  • Accountability: Joining group fitness classes or workout buddies can add a layer of accountability to your routine. When you know others are counting on you, you’re more likely to stick to your
    commitments.

Tips to Reestablish Your Fitness Routine:

  1. Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve – whether it’s losing a certain amount of weight, improving your stamina, or mastering a particular exercise.
  2. Plan Your Workouts: Schedule your workouts just like you would any other appointment. Consistency starts with making exercise a non-negotiable part of your day.
  3. Start Slow: If you’ve had a break from regular exercise, don’t rush into intense routines. Begin with moderate workouts and gradually increase intensity to prevent injuries.
  4. Diversify Your Routine: Keep things interesting by incorporating various exercises – from boxing to strength training to yoga. This variety not only prevents boredom but also targets different muscle groups.
  5. Nutrition Matters: Pair your fitness routine with a balanced diet. Nutrient-rich foods fuel your workouts and aid in recovery.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Adequate water intake is crucial for optimal performance and recovery. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day.

When it comes to reigniting your fitness routine after the summer, boxing emerges as a standout choice. Not only does it offer an effective full-body workout, but it also brings a plethora of additional benefits that make it a holistic fitness option.

Boxing helps you build strength, endurance, and confidence as you challenge yourself physically and mentally. It’s not just a workout – it’s an opportunity to learn a valuable skill that can empower you in various aspects of life.

Beyond the physical gains, boxing is a stress-busting powerhouse that improves your overall well-being. What’s more, stepping into 12 Rounds opens doors to a vibrant community where you can make new friends and experience the camaraderie of a supportive fitness family.

So, lace up those trainers, wrap those hand wraps, grab your gym bag, and take the first step toward a fitter, healthier you this September. Your body and mind will thank you!

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Boxing tips Mindset Motivation Uncategorized white collar

Getting Comfortable with Punches coming at you

Are you thinking about training to fight?

Our January Fight School intake have started training!

If it’s something you are interested in, this is the time to consider signing up for our next fight school as places go fast.

Here’s a bit more about the programme from coach Anthony Young.

Nutrition and Mindset 

We want to help you get in shape, but we also want to teach you how to do it the right way. Our
nutrition and mindset workshop will help you learn how to eat healthily without depriving
yourself, how to set realistic goals for yourself and your workouts, and how to build a strong
inner core that can carry you through any challenge life throws at you.

Conditioning – becoming comfortable with punches coming at you and preparing your body and mind for
combat.
Conditioning is the first stage of fight camp and it’s about getting your body used to the rigours
of boxing. Boxing is an extremely intense sport, so this initial phase allows you to acclimatise to
the movement required for fighting and allows you time to adjust your diet before cutting weight,
if required, for a fight.
At this stage, conditioning involves learning how to move in a ring as well as doing
cardiovascular exercise such as boxing specific drills, running, cycling or swimming in order to
improve endurance. It also involves strength training circuits including exercises such as squats
and lunges in order for your body’s muscles and tendons to get used to the high intensity nature
of boxing.
During the conditioning phase, our tech sessions are spent getting accustomed to having
punches thrown at us. This can be a daunting prospect!
For many of us, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that boxing is all about hitting other people.
But what we’ve found is that the real value of boxing comes from learning how to defend
yourself—and that means knowing how to take a punch.

You can’t learn to swim without getting wet… and you can’t learn to box without getting hit.

So we start off by working on our defensive skills, which means learning how to use our hand
defences and to move our head, once comfortable avoiding punches we’ll work on
counterpunching. This gives us an opportunity to focus on what’s going on without getting
overwhelmed by our own fear of being attacked. We gradually build up our intensity with each
session until we’re ready for more advanced techniques.
The overall aim of this stage is to get your body and mind used to the demands of boxing so
that you’ll be able to train harder and longer without getting injured.

Do you want to understand how to eat for weight loss or to maximise your performance?
Perhaps you’re confused by all the trending fads: low fat, low carb, keto, intermittent fasting
etc… What is really the best way to eat? In our nutrition and mindset workshop you will learn the
principles to keep things simple. This session will provide all the info you need to get your
nutrition on track and explain the importance of mindset and why you need to do the brain work
too.

The workshop will include an interactive session where you can ask questions and get
answers from our experts. You will learn: What is the best way to eat for weight loss or performance?
What does macronutrient breakdown mean?
What are good fats and bad fats?
How much protein do I need and what are some good sources?
How often should I eat and how many meals per day should they be split into?
What, if any are the benefits of ‘fasting’ (intermittent fasting)?
Do I need to take supplements (pre workout, BCAA etc…) in order to train harder & longer
without getting injured?

The second phase of a boxer’s training is the skill development stage. This is when you begin to
learn the “moves” that will be used in competition, such as combination punching and defensive
manoeuvres. We will produce a blog post around this topic at a later date.

Conclusion
We are very excited to have a busy and enthusiastic group undertaking the current programme, who fill fight in The Clapham Grand on Thus 16th March.  This group are about to embark on a journey of self growth as well as becoming unbelievably fit and honing their boxing skills.  There is no greater challenge than getting into the ring and overcoming your own fears as well as taking on an opponent.

If you think you are up for the challenge and you would like to join our next intake starting in May, apply at the link below and we will be in touch.

Apply Here 

Thank you for reading.

 

Categories
Boxing tips Exercise Tips Fitness Regime Motivation

Benefits of Pad work

Pad work is an effective training method used to help get boxers fight ready, but did you that
know it has heaps of mental and physical benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels?
Check out our top 5 benefits below:

1. It helps to reduce and/or manage stress
 
It’s no secret that exercise causes the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones! It’s
also a great mood booster generally, it works as a form of meditation, and improves sleep.
All of which helps to reduce and manage stress.
When you’re focusing and pushing yourself through a couple minutes of high-intensity
punching, you don’t have much mental space left to worry about work or stress about
relationships. Punching the pads can help you release any pent up negative emotions you
might be storing, so if you’re not in a great place, it is a great way to transform your mood.
Trust us, those endorphins will be flowing for hours after your workout too!

2. Improves Hand-Eye Coordination

If you have good hand-eye coordination, you’re likely to have quick reflexes and reaction
times. This is an important skill to work on, especially as we age, as coordination and
balance become compromised, increasing the risk of falls.
Pad work is a fantastic way to improve your hand-eye coordination because when you’re
hitting the pads, you must be able to see, react to, and hit the constantly moving and
changing target. Pads provide a much smaller target (than a bag) so require maximum
attention from the boxer to punch on target. It is therefore a must for anyone wanting to
develop their accuracy in boxing.
It’s certainly challenging, but with practice on the pads, your hand-eye coordination will
improve considerably!

 3. It improves your cardiovascular fitness 
Cardiovascular exercise is any vigorous activity that increases your heart rate and
respiration and raises oxygen and blood flow throughout the body while using the body’s
large muscle groups. Cardio offers a plethora of benefits from reducing health risks to
lowering blood pressure.
The combos strung together in pad work effectively ramp up your heart rate in a short space
of time. It is a high intensity, low impact form of interval training that is guaranteed to improve
your stamina and fitness levels. Punch your way to a healthy heart at 12 Rounds Boxing!

4. Improves Total Body Strength

All that jabbing and hooking requires a surprising amount of strength! Participating in regular
pad work sessions will lead to a significant increase in body strength in a fairly short period
of time!

5. Increases Muscle Mass and Promotes Weight Loss

As pad work simultaneously decreases fat mass and increases muscle mass, it is great for
both weight loss and improving body composition!
It perfectly combines muscle-building, strength training moves and intense, calorie-burning
rounds of cardio. Regular pad work sessions will therefore result in changes to your body
shape whilst helping you shed those unwanted pounds – win win!

6. It’s a fantastic mental workout too!

Rest assured pad work isn’t just a great physical workout. It’s also fantastic for improving
concentration and cognitive skills, as the boxer is required to remember punch sequences
and link combinations which is a tough mental workout!

7. It’s the fastest way to improve technique

Lastly, it is one of the fastest ways to improve technique due to the one-on-one time with the
coach. So if you’re looking to step into the ring or want to perfect your angles and punching
technique, hitting the pads is a non-negotiable!

Essentially, pad work is a fun and versatile way to improve fitness for people of different
ages, strengths and fitness levels! Give it a try soon at 12 Rounds Boxing!

Categories
Boxing tips community Weight Loss

From Fundamentals to Seasoned Fighter – Dan’s Story

As our latest Fight Skool intake kicks off, we thought what better time than to tell you a bit about the fight skool journey.

Dan Cloak has being undertaking this journey regualry since 2017.   We asked him to tell us his story, what does he get out of putting himself through 10 weeks of intense training and getting regualry punched in the face?  Quite a lot it seems.

Check out Dan’s inspiring story below.

When did you first do Fundamentals?

March 2017. My most vivid memory is the intense fear – I walked past the entrance to the gym 4 times and was about to just write off the money I had paid and get straight back on the train to the safety of home before I finally plucked up the courage to walk up those stairs. Best decision I ever made!

 

How would you describe yourself before you started boxing?

Shy, unfit and pretty unhappy in general. Nothing too dramatic but had had a few setbacks which had knocked my confidence and I felt like I was sort of drifting through life a bit.

Also I was seriously unfit which didn’t help, I hadn’t seen the inside of a gym in literally YEARS before 12 Rounds. I had resolved to get fit at the start of 2017 so had made a few token gestures to start, some light running here and there, got a cheap bike machine for Christmas which I had used a couple times. But no-one (including me) actually believed I was serious about getting into shape until I started boxing!

If memory serves when I walked through the door to start Fundamentals I was about 76kg, down from my peak of 80+ the year before, which might not sound huge but since then I have fought at 61kg so for me it was pretty big!

 

What attracted you to do a fight?

So one of the reasons I took up boxing was because I was in the process of joining the RAF and I needed to get fit for that. I’d finished Fundamentals in mid-April and had been training normally at the gym for a few weeks when I had a major setback and the job fell through in incredibly frustrating fashion (long story!). This was a major setback in career terms but also meant I had lost my main motivation for getting fit. I think in previous years that would have set me off into a major downward spiral.

But I guess I must have picked up a little bit of the resilient boxing spirit already from my first 6 weeks at 12 Rounds because after the initial strop, I decided I wasn’t going to let it ruin the progress I had made and that what I needed was a new motivation, a new target to aim for.

So that very night, while part-way through a large bottle of whiskey drowning my sorrows, I e-mailed Kat to ask if they did any white collar fights from the gym. By freak chance, the next fight camp started the following week. I signed up (after finishing the bottle) and the rest is history.

 

How do you feel now, 10 fights in?

It wouldn’t be at all an exaggeration to say it’s completely changed my life.

I’m a much happier, more confident and more positive person now than I was pre-boxing. I guess fighting is a weird kind of soul searching because you find answers about yourself in that ring and it’s hard not to be a bit more upbeat and positive about yourself and what you are capable of doing when you get through something as daunting as the experience of the training camp and the fight night.

But it’s more than just the fight, it’s the whole experience leading up to it. The team bond you build up in camp is like nothing I had experienced before, a 10-week camp is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster and you spend a LOT of time together so from total strangers you end up as a very close group. I’ve made so many friends for life in between smashing each other up in sparring.

And obviously I’m much fitter and healthier now (well, most of the time anyway… we won’t talk about the bits in between training camps!).

All of it – being more positive about yourself and your capabilities, the confidence in meeting new people and making new friends etc – it all carries over into your life outside the gym and it makes you a better version of yourself. It might sound a bit daft but I’m convinced that I’m a much better person than I was before 2017 thanks mainly to boxing. Maybe I’m not as entertaining on a night out these days though…

 

…let’s talk about those bits in between training camps…

Well my favourite boxer was always Ricky Hatton and I guess he influenced more than just my style in the ring because I tend to let myself go a bit in between fights. I’m a VERY target-oriented person so I need to have a specific goal to work towards to stay motivated.

As soon as I finish a training camp and don’t have that fight date to work towards I’m back on the takeaways and beers. It’s good and necessary to have that downtime because the intensity of a 10-week camp isn’t sustainable without it, but it would be fair to say I’ve been known to overindulge a little TOO much. I regularly put on 10% or more of my fighting fit body weight in between camps so each time it’s a bit like starting again from scratch!

Signing up for a fight is uniquely motivating though, there’s nothing quite like knowing that someone is going to try and knock you out in front of hundreds of people to incentivise you to work hard.

In truth, it’s not just the fear of the fight that motivates you, at least not after the first one or two fights. Nowadays I’m as much motivated by being a good team-mate and trying to set a good example for less experienced fighters on each camp.

And also I’m motivated to improve each time, to take what I learned from the previous camp to make little changes to my style or to the ways that I train and recover to be a slightly better version of myself each time. I want to keep improving and pushing myself, fighting tougher opponents and testing myself in longer fights. That’s the great thing about boxing – no matter how well or badly you did in the last fight, there is always the next mountain to climb for you to focus on and work towards.

Once I have a fight date, no-one takes the training and dieting more seriously than I do. My record is dropping from 75kg at Christmas to fighting at 64.5kg in March… certainly made for a good before and after photo!

What advice would you give someone starting out on their boxing journey?

Make sure you walk up those stairs and don’t bottle it and get the train back home like I nearly did!

That’s just the first step of course but facing up to your fears and pushing through them is a common theme on your boxing journey so get used to taking a leap of faith every now and then.

I was terrified when I first walked into the gym; terrified when I walked into my first sparring; terrified when I arrived for my first fight; terrified when I went to my first conditioning circuit (actually I’m still terrified of those!).

Trying new things is scary. Sometimes boxing is a bit scary too.

But the sense of achievement and confidence boost you get every time you face down your fear and walk up those steps into the gym? That’s priceless.

 

We are pleased to say that Dan is a bit of a permament feature down at 12 Rounds.  You’ll often find him shadow boxing in reception and helping out in the gym.  He’s also about to turn his hand to some coaching and complete his England Level 1 course later this year.  We are sure his personal expereince and boxing ability will make him a fantastic coach and look forward to seeing him teaching some classes in the near future.

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Categories
Boxing tips community Mindset Motivation

Getting started with boxing

There is always a daunting feeling in the pit of your stomach every time you think about starting something new.

Will I be good enough? am I too old? Too unfit?  Will I fit in?

These are some of the questions that we berate ourselves with.

The truth is, must of your fears are probably unfounded, but that doesn’t stop them creeping in and sometimes stopping you from starting at all.

Here are a few worries people generally have about learning to box:

Initial Fears

  • ‘I don’t know what I’m doing’ – of course you don’t, everyone starts from the beginning; some pick it up faster than others. In reality you’re not as bad as your think you are. Coaches don’t expect you to be great boxers or inferior. As long as you’re teachable, everything else will fall into place.

 

  • ‘What will other people think of me’ – Sorry to break it to you, but other people are too busy worrying about themselves haha. Seriously though, boxing is made up of people from different backgrounds shaped by different experiences. It really is a judgment free zone.

 

  • ‘Will I have to spar?’ – Sparring is a big part of the sport as it prepares you for a fight or in boxing terms; for battle. At most reputable gyms newcomers are never thrown into sparring on the first day, or even the second. An understanding of the fundamentals and basic punching and defending techniques must be shown first before you’re trusted to go into the ring and spar.

Sparring isn’t everyone’s cup of tea and that is perfectly normal. There are classes catered to those who wish to learn the art, or just get a good work out in, without the pressure of having to spar.

 

  • Intimidation factor – Boxing clubs have gained an unfair reputation of being a less then welcoming place. An unforgiven haven of brutality mixed with the smell of sweat and sawdust.

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Boxing clubs are in fact very family orientated with members often feeling like they belong. Some of the best of friendships are formed in a boxing club.

 

 


One of the things we are renowned for at 12 Rounds Boxing is our signature boxing fundamentals course for beginners.  Some gyms do throw beginners in with experienced fighters.    We don’t believe this provides a good experience for anyone.  A much better way is to offer a programme which teaches the basics of boxing BEFORE you progress and where everyone is at a similar starting point.  Our boxing fundamentals programme does just that.  Over 4 weeks you’ll learn stance, guard, movement and how to put basic punch combinations together.  It will also super charge your fitness. Each session involves body weight circuit training combined with boxing drills as well as learning technique.  There is nothing quite like boxing training to take your fitness to a whole new level.  Again, we don’t believe in throwing you in the deep end.  Over the 4 weeks our coaches will build on your fitness week by week.  We even fitness test you at the beginning and the end of the course so you can see the improvement.

If you like the sound of that and are ready to get started, our Boxing Fundamentals course runs monthly.  Don’t just take our word for it though.  We offer a free taster session for anyone new to the club.

Book yourself on here and come along and quash those fears.

 

[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://12roundsboxing.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/0ca675ea-bcfe-4b5f-a2e4-b1da853ea6ab.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Scott has been boxing since he was 18 and has an impressive amateur record of over 50 fights. His talent was spotted early. When he first walked into Islington Boxing Club he was put straight into the competitive class and had his first fight 3 months later. Scott has fought all over the country and travelled to extensively including to South Africa where he won boxer of the tournament. Now retired from competing Scott is excited to put his skills and energy into coaching[/author_info] [/author]

Categories
Boxing tips Latest Motivation

Building the foundations

Fundamentals is an integral part of boxing. It’s the foundation on which your style is built on.
Think of it like a house. Before the house is built, the foundation must be laid first. It has to be strong and sturdy or the house will crumble.

Fundamentals can be broken into 3 parts:
[ ] Footwork
[ ] Balance
[ ] Technique

Footwork is an essential part of boxing. It gets you in and out of range. Its also part of your defence, gets you out of trouble.

Balance is an overlooked fundamental. When you throw a punch, you must be able to transfer your weight, turn your hips and deliver your power. You can’t do that without being balanced.
Balance isn’t only about delivering a punch, its also about accepting one. You will be able to absorb a punch much better if you are balanced.

Technique is about slowing everything down, focusing on the technical aspects of boxing and understanding the mechanics of how things work.

Its imperative that you are competent in the basic fundamentals before you enter the ring/start sparring.
All the advanced techniques you will no doubt progress too, will be built off the fundamentals you were taught at the start of your boxing journey.

I love teaching the fundamentals because I really enjoy watching the progression and growth over 4 weeks. It’s amazing what you can achieve in just 4 weeks, not only in terms of boxing technique but in fitness and confidence too.

You can find Scott teaching Fundamentals Mon and Wed evenings and he’s also available for 1-1 Personal Training.