Expert: Joe Hofer - 10/6/2006

Question
Hi there, I have a couple of quick questions. I have started boxing and MMA again in addition to my weight training. If I do my boxing training one day after my weights training will this affect my muscle growth as the muscle is fatigued from the day before? i.e. if i train chest/triceps/shoulders on monday then I box on tuesday will this affect anything? and secondly I want to be the best boxer I can but I also want to add muscle to the best of ability. How can I structure my training so that I will be able to be a good boxer but also get the best results from my weight training? Lastly, is there anything I can do to strengthen my wrists? as I injured my tendons in my left arm and now when I train the wrist is usually swollen and sore afterwards, but this could be down to me not throwing my punches with that hand properly.

Thanks
Liam

Answer
Liam:

To be blunt.  You need to decide which is more important bodybuilding or boxing.  If you are trying to achieve a Mr. Universe type body then your focus should be weight training.  Yes incorporate weights with your boxing but when you do allot of lifting your muscles then need some rest in order to grow so you need to space your workouts accordingly.  If your wrists are swollen they also need rest but to protect them from this condition you might want to check the way your hands are being wrapped.

Good Luck,

Joe