Expert: Alan Kahn - 6/10/2004

Question
Hi im 16, pretty small (bout 5'7) so the whole world and his brother seem to want to start fight with me just to show off to their mates. Im always gettin started on by 6ft 19yr olds and gypsies. I think boxing might be a gd way to both know how to defend myself and to build myself up (and in confidence) so that ppl are less likely to start. Im in england so dont know if it'll b the same but how can i get started at home and then maybe a club. Do you have to actually get in the ring if u join a club or can you just train and get the technique? any advise on starting and what i can do from home (short on money at mo) would b appreciated.
      cheers

Answer
Hi Simon

I am sorry the world seems to be picking on you! That sucks and isn't fair. Bigger people like to pick on folks that either look like or act like easy targets. Since their own ego's are shorter than you, they think dominating someone will raise them up in their own, or someone elses eyes. I understand why you want to learn to defend yourself.

Training at home is a great way to start. You only need a few things, first, equipment ( mainly punching bags ) and second, training manuals, videos or someone knowledgeable to help you.  Learning to Punch and Kick is great exercise and can help you learn to defend yourself, however it is no guarentees. The Basic punching and Kicking ( I include kicking because it doubles YOUR weapons....2 longer legs along with your fists) are not that hard, but it is hard for YOU to tell if you are doing it right without someone to watch and see how your form and balance are. If I were you I would lean more towards the Martial ARts, rather than just boxing, since martial art training ( my own background)normally covers more self defense scenarios and has more "mind_body" and self awareness training. Most systems have more internal or calming aspects along with physical techniques. they also cover grabbing and release moves from holds or grabs.

In most clubs over here in U.S., unless you are going to be a competitive fighter, You do NOT have to spar if you don't want to. People can do what they pay for, and perhaps some "SLOW" half-speed sparring is what they do,

...to defend yourself better it helps to see fists or feet coming at you and get use to it so your first reaction is not to flinch or ball up. the proper reaction is normally a much more subtle dodging or deflecting, and you have to have someone executing punches and kicks ( slowly at first) at you to get comfortable with it.

For training at home, Start out with the bags and perhaps some weights or muscle building exercises. Perhaps if you can get a little bigger, stronger and more confident the bullies will asses you as a threat rather than a target and leave you alone.

I hope this has helped you, and good luck in your training.
If you feel I can help you further, don't hesitate to ask another question.

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible