Getting into boxing in Cambridge / Boston?
March 5, 2008 7:48 AM

Getting into boxing in Cambridge / Boston?

I'd like to get into boxing. Zero prior experience, but I'm in decent enough shape (work out about 3x / week on average). I've read over some past AskMes about boxing, which had some good information, but I am looking for sort of basic n00b information. Where do I start? What can I expect? Things to look for or avoid? Oh, and if anyone can throw out some trainer or gym recommendations for Cambridge (best) or Boston (farther, but still works), that would be great. Thanks, all!
posted by Pontius Pilate to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (2 answers total) 1 user marked this as a favorite
-Where you start: a boxing gym.
-What can you expect: a whirlwind of information that may be difficult to absorb at first. Start slowly. Focus on the basics. Listen to your coach/instructor.
-Thinks to look for: Helpful instructors who are "good teachers" and give you the attention you need as a student. This can be difficult to find.
-Things to avoid: Your instructors will tell you this when you start off, but I'll let you know now. 99% of beginners are too focused on developing power and beating the shit out of the bag/focus pads/etc. Power created (initially) with exertion. It comes from your technique. By understanding and being able to execute these techniques properly, you will eventually be able to channel your exertion, your momentum, your body weight and mechanics, fully into each movement, and thusly create power. Listen to your instructor and focus on technique!
-Gym recommendations: start a thread at the Sherdog.net "Standup Technique" forums. People often post there in search of boxing/muay thai/etc clubs, and reviews. Search as well. This is one thread I was able to find by simply searching "Boston" in the Standup forum. They recommend The Ring, Somerville Boxing Club, and DogTime Boxing.

Hope that helped. Good luck, and have fun.
posted by crunch buttsteak at 8:10 AM on March 5, 2008


Christ. I meant "Power is not created (initially) with exertion."
posted by crunch buttsteak at 8:11 AM on March 5, 2008


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