What Do You Need to Be a Boxer Coach?

A boxing coach needs to train a boxer to jab, punch, dodge and use footwork to beat an opponent. But boxing is also tactical. As the coach you need to train a boxer to be physically and mentally prepared and to know when to throw a punch and when to use defensive strategy to tire an opponent out.

  1. Basics

    • Boxing coaches need access to basic boxing equipment and to an open, well-ventilated training area such as a gym or even a garage. The training area needs a good airflow so the boxers have sufficient oxygen while they train and has to be large enough to train more than one boxer at a time. This training area will need to be equipped with a heavy bag, speed bag, skipping rope, dumbbells and barbells. You will also need boxing gloves and pads and a fighting ring for boxers to spar in.

    Knowledge of Training Methods

    • Coaches need to understand how boxers train. Boxing employs cardiovascular training, strength and endurance training, and gymnastic training. Use the heavy bag for boxers to practice heavy blows, the speed bag to build speed and endurance, the skipping rope for improving cardiovascular fitness and the dumbbells and barbells to build strength. You will need to make the boxer do gymnastic training such as push-ups and chin-ups so he can master his own body weight. You need a good understanding of boxing techniques and moves such as proper footwork, attacks, counterattacks and defensive moves.

    Nutritional Knowledge

    • A person needs an understanding of proper nutrition to coach a boxer. Nutritional needs vary depending on boxers' size, muscle mass and gender. You will need to be able to determine how many calories they require per day to add, maintain or lose body weight. You will need to understand protein consumption and how it affects muscle growth and maintenance. Most boxers will require at least 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight each day. Boxers also need a high level of vitamin and mineral intake, so you will need to encourage them to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Adequate amounts of fat are also necessary through foods such as avocados, seeds, nuts and olive oil. About 20 percent of a boxer's calories should come from fat. Keep the boxer hydrated by making him drink at least six glasses of water each day.

    Team

    • To coach a boxer you need a corner man. The corner man provides support during a match but is also involved in training. He will typically hold pads for the boxer to punch and will help you with any training you design for the boxer. You need a manager to organize matches for the boxer, advise him on his finances and create a schedule or timetable that he can stick to. You will also need sparring partners for your boxer. If you are training more than one boxer, they can spar with each other.