Expert: Alan Kahn - 3/20/2008

Question
Hi my name is Lawrence and i have a friend that i boxed with once, we were about the same at the time and we were both in swimming. I quit swimming awhile back but I've been doing strength training ever since, things like chin ups, pull ups, core training and such, do you think if we boxed again i would be stronger compared to him if he continues to do swimming like he used to? I do notice my biceps increasing in size but him not sure if its just looks or muscle packed in it. My six pack is also coming in nicely but could you recommend some strength training home exercises that i could use to give me an upperhand while boxing? The only equipment i have are a chin up bar and a jump rope, but plenty of determination and motive, please give me some advice!

Answer
HI Lawrence,

It is hard to make a strength comparison between two people I have never met. There are too many variables that cannot be accounted for, as well as your friend may also be doing some other strength training we both don't know about. If you arms (biceps) are getting bigger, it is a good bet they are getting stronger also.

Yes, I would recommend strength training for boxing. Probably THE best advice for strength training for boxers and combat athletes is from Ross Enamait. This article is from his websites "Rosstraining.com" and "Rossboxing.com"

Strength Training For Fighters
http://www.rosstraining.com/articles/strengthtraining.html

As a master trainer for fighters and competitive atheletes in all sports, Ross has the most innovative training techniques for general strengh and fitness, particularly for those without access to gym equipment.

Here are some of the articles you may find useful.
http://www.rosstraining.com/articles.html

Never Gymless
http://www.rosstraining.com/nevergymless.html

Infinite Intensity
http://www.rosstraining.com/infiniteintensity.html

I have no financial interest or gain from or with his products, but I can tell you they work and he is currently one of the most sought after trainers on the east coast. Follow his advice and you will get in great fighting shape!

hope this helps you. Good luck in your home training.

sincerely,

Alan Kahn