Expert: Alan Kahn - 6/25/2005

Question
Hi Alan,
thank you for the time.  I'm new to boxing but am very interested.  I'm currently 16 years old, and am in excellent shape (run the mile in 5min, play on varsity football etc.).  I was wondering what i could do to start out in boxing?  Right now i have a 40 pound heavy bag at my house but thats it for recoures.  
   I plan to box a few of my friends who have been into it for awhile.  So i was hoping to learn some things so that i could match up against them.   

                                   Thank You,
                                         Adam

Answer
Hi Adam

You could start boxing, First, by learning as much as you can about the required skills. Search online for basic information about the stances, movement and punches.
Here are some links

http://www.balazsboxing.com/cgi-bin/catalog2.cgi?action=page&page=in%20the%20gym...

http://www.ringside.com/pdf_files/boxing_manual.pdf
* this is a large .pdf file but very informative.  Great information for a beginner. Print it off.

Heavy bag
http://www.protectivestrategies.com/heavybag.html

on the web, perhaps read and even join in some online boxing forums.  
Rossboxing.com
http://p101.ezboard.com/brossboxingforum

BoxingScene
http://www.boxingscene.com/forums/

Start practicing your stance, jab, straight punch and hook. Perhaps you can shadow box a little, punching at a reflection in the mirror.  

But the best way to learn is to find a boxing oriented gym and get a personal instructor or trainer. Purchase high quality equipment, especially headgear. and I do not recommend sparring with your friends on your own without supervision. Tempers flare and injuries occur.

Keep doing your other training.  It will all help you if you end up in the ring.

good luck and hope this helps you.  

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible