On the road with Sammy Jo: My first time boxing
On October 22nd I entered the boxing class at the Martial Arts Center for the first time. After the previous MMA training I was curious
what boxing had to offer me. The lesson, which lasted from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, was led by Siebe , a coach I already knew from my MMA training. With healthy tension I started my first boxing training. And although it was quite a challenge, I went home with a satisfied feeling.
A strong start begins with a good warm-up
We started the training with a warm-up. Siebe had us shadow box with assignments in between. Then we moved on to push-ups. The push-ups were hard for me (let's be honest, push-ups are not my strong point), but I persevered. The assignment to slowly lower down after five push-ups, then come up again and then hold in the low position for 10 seconds, we repeated five times. Sounds easy, but it made my arms and shoulders burn!
While the warm-up didn’t last forever, it was definitely enough to get me fired up. Shadow boxing helped me find my focus, and the push-ups got my arms ready for the real action.
Fine-tuning your technique for better results
After the warm-up we moved on to drills, here the real work began. We started with the basics : jab, cross; jab, jab; cross, cross. Because we were an odd number, I practiced alternately with Siebe and on the punching bag . Siebe gave tips on how to improve my punches. For example, he explained that I had to extend my jab more, and demonstrated why this was important.
The next drill was more challenging: a left hook, left uppercut, right hook, and another left hook. Although my right hook was pretty good, it could have been a bit better. It was nice to have a trainer who really paid attention to the little things.
Grow by learning from others
Halfway through the class a guy came in and I could train with him. He has been boxing for about three months and it was interesting to learn from his experience. We worked on our footwork with the help of a task. For three minutes one person had to move his arm back and forth at the same tempo while the other had to throw punches. (A real killer for your shoulder). The first minute we threw two punches to the body, the second minute three punches and in the third minute four or more.
This exercise was meant to teach me how to punch on time and improve my footwork . It felt almost playful, but at the same time I noticed how important it was to coordinate my movements and timing. I learned to react quickly and to consciously step in and out during the movement.
Sparring, where theory becomes practice
At the end of the lesson it was time to spar. I found this quite exciting to be honest. Boxing is different from kickboxing, and I knew there were some experienced guys among them. Still, I decided to take on the challenge, and before I knew it, I had sparred five rounds of two minutes.
It took some getting used to that I was only allowed to punch and not kick, since this is a big part of kickboxing. Still, I kept my focus, and luckily the guys I sparred with were very respectful. There was no cockiness, which I might have expected a little bit beforehand. What struck me during the sparring was that boxers have a completely different way of moving than kickboxers. Although this is logical, you only really notice it when you are facing a boxer yourself. It was an educational and challenging experience.
A pleasant and positive atmosphere during the lesson
What struck me most during my first boxing training was the relaxed atmosphere in the group. As the only girl in a class full of men, I could have felt uncomfortable, but that was not the case at all. Everyone was friendly and there was a warm welcome. At the end of the class, a few guys came up to me to give me a punch and say hello, even the ones I had not sparred with. This gave me a feeling of acceptance and respect, which made the whole experience extra nice for me.
At the end of the lesson I was exhausted but all in all it was a very nice lesson. I learned a lot and felt comfortable in the group. The tips from Siebe, my training partner and the positive atmosphere at the Martial Arts Center made sure that I left the training with a satisfied feeling.
Boxing: The Ideal Way to Get Stronger
Boxing is not only a great way to become physically stronger, but it also builds your mental resilience. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, boxing offers a challenge for everyone. This accessible sport helps you improve your fitness, build confidence and refine techniques, regardless of your level.
Have you ever tried boxing, and what was your first experience?
Start your boxing adventure at Fightstyle!
Want to enter the gym well prepared or upgrade your current boxing gear? Then take a look at Fightstyle . There you will find boxing gloves , clothing and accessories to take your boxing adventure to the next level. Don't miss out and make sure you are optimally prepared for your next (or first!) training.