Expert: Joe Hofer - 10/16/2007

Question
I'm 18 and about 5'8" with a 27.5 reach from armpit to end of the fist. Normally i weigh about 145 when I'm not training, and when I am training it is very easy to cut this down to 140 in a few days with no problems. I've been boxing for only about a month so I'm wrestling with what weight class I'd like to be in. I think my speed is my greatest asset so originally I thought that I'd be well suited moving down to 132 or 125 for amateurs. Three questions regarding me trying to cut weight:
1. I'd like to be one of the taller guys in my weight class, and have no clue what the average height is in different classes. Between 125, 132, and 141 is there a big difference between the average height.
2. I have a few months to cut weight so I don;t need to do anything drastic. Whats a realistic pace(like how many lbs per wk) to set say if i was trying to lose 20 lbs to get down to 125?
3. Do you think a speed fighter is better suited at a lower weight class, or does it not make much of a difference.

Answer
Bone structure is key so I can't say for certain which is your best class but as a norm for the 126 lb. class you would be big and probably very effective.  At 130 you should also do well.  For fighting I would not maintain more than 6% body fat.  It is not uncommon to lose 7lbs. in 7 days with the type of workout you should do.  Speed is important and an advantage at any weight class.

Thanks,

Joe