Expert: Jackson Rose - 11/2/2009

Question
Thank you for your time. My name is Josh and I am 21 years old. I trained in Jun Fan JKD theories and concepts, karate and some mma over a 5 year period. I sparred a lot of people, went to tournaments and full contact fought 4 times. I found that my hands were my strength. I was decent at martial arts in a sense but my hands won me many fights. I fell in love with boxing about 6 months ago. I watch it whenever I can and box whoever I can. I just relate to boxing more than martial arts. Most of the fights I had, I did great when I used my hands. I found that 75 percent of martial arts for me didn't feel comfortable to me. I just feel great when I use my hands. I live in Tennessee and go to college full time and work full time. The nearest boxing gym is 50 miles away from me. I want to join a gym soon and I believe in my heart if I got with a good trainer I could go somewhere with boxing. I just wanted to ask your thoughts on the situation and see what you would do? I hit the bag every chance I get and work my hands as much as I can. I tried MMA and it was ok but to me boxing is the best thing for me! Again, thanks for your time.

Answer
Josh,

I would try boxing for a year and see if you like it. You need to get involved with a gym that is franchised with golden gloves or has a USA boxing affiliation. They will be able to get you registered and get you on a team so you can be on your way without screwing around. Many places teach boxing but they are not true "boxing gyms".

You'll go in, likely sign a release, soon after you'll register as a USA amateur boxer. You'll be assigned a coach and be on a team. He will train you until he feels you are ready for your first fight. You could get 9 or 10 in a year maybe more, but it will be enough for you to see if you like it. Most likely you will love it. Boxing is much more technical and strategic than MMA, it is also safer with less injuries.

I would give it a shot if I were you.

good luck