Expert: Alan Kahn - 6/12/2007

Question
Hi Alan,

I've seen some of your other posts about gloves, which are great, but wanted to ask some more specific stuff.

I am a female, 5'8, 150lb (looking to drop 15lb).  I am currently picking up training again after being out for awhile, so have a long way to go to get conditioned again.  I have never fought or really sparred, just trained.  

Currently I have 2 types of gloves.  I have 16oz training hoop&loop gloves, which is what I've been using for a long time.  They are starting to appear pretty scratched up.  I also just ordered some 12 oz lace up bag gloves, just because they were on sale real cheap.  

So, my question is, are these two sets of gloves doing me any good? I am thinking that the 16 oz are too big probably.  They feel ok, but I'm a girl, not some heavy weight dude, so chances are they're too big, right?  Is this bad?  (My trainer at the time told me to get 14oz, but I was being a little bad@ss and went for the 16oz.  dumb I think.)  I am wondering if it was likewise stupid to buy the 12 oz lace ups.  I belong to a gym with trainers, but don't have anybody one on one to help me lace up and I don't want to be a pain every time I work out.  

Do I need to abandon both these sets and get myself some 14 oz training gloves?  Or 14 oz bag gloves?  Or both?

sorry for the long winded question...

Answer
Hi Courtney,

First, no need to apologize for your question being long. You are just "thinking out loud" which tells me more about you and how you look at things.  It's helpful, so thanks for that insight,

Now for your gloves, I would make a few suggestions.

First, I would follow your personal trainers advice. That person works with YOU everyday. He knows your ability, your strengths and weaknesses. If he suggests 14oz gloves, then ask him "why 14oz" and I bet he will tell you. I bet he thinks 16oz is to much for you, and you can't throw punches correctly, or you ire too soon to make them useful.

There are several types of Gloves, "Training" gloves for hitting bags and such, and "sparring gloves" for hitting people. Most well heeled boxing gyms don't allow much glove cross over. IF you're basically working bags, than I see no reason to get the lace up style. Most of the hook and latch gloves have good wrist support, (better if you wrap underneath..) and plenty of padding. And you might consider special "womans" gear,
http://www.ringside.com/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=2390
that are made for the smaller dimensions of the female hands, and fit better. Then again, YOUR personal trainer who knows you and your sizes will be the best bet.

You are a smart girl, training in a gym WITH TRAINERS. I would not second guess them. If they look and sound like they know what they are doing, and if they treat all their trainees with respect and concern, than they will be your best guide.

I personally don't buy combat gear "cheap". Stick with quality for your own protection....

Good luck and go get 'em!  you CAN drop that 15 or more pounds. Don't sell yourself short. Keep believing, and punching. You CAN do it!!

Good luck and best to you

sincerely

Alan Kahn
Author, The speed bag bible