Expert: Jack Rose - 11/16/2007

Question
Hi. I am 15 and i have been boxing for almost 6 months. i have a fight coming up but i dont know for sure when. i think around the first of the year. i need to lose about 30 lbs to match up with the girl my coach wants me to fight. i need to know the quickest but healthiest way to do so. I was also wondering what you think some of the best ways to train for a fight are. i have 3 coaches working with me, one who specializes with females, one who works me on my cardio. and then my actualy trainer who shows me and tells me everything there is to know about boxing. but i dont have a coach to work with me on a diet specifically for a fighter. I really would appreciate it if you could help me out, because im trying really hard to get ready for this fight.

                           Thank You Very Much,
                            Summer

Answer
Hello Summer,    sorry for the delay, I was out of town.

The healthiest way to lose weight is to go for 2 to 3 pounds a week. So if you started losing right now you could possibly lose about 18 pounds by the beginning of the year or 30 pounds by feb. You should combine both training and diet to achieve this. You will need to take in less calories and burn off more calories at the same time. I suggest eating 5 small meals throughout the day rather than 3 large meals. No soft drinks, no deserts or candy and only skim milk if you drink milk. Also, don't skip breakfast. It is the most important meal you eat when your trying to drop weight. Be sure to get your running in outside the gym. Also   don't eat late at night right before bed. Drink lots of water to curb your appetite.
Best of luck and thanks for the question.