Amateur Boxing Tips

Boxing is an art that requires years of training and experience to master. If you are a beginner, spend some time getting to know the sport before starting to train. If you are an intermediate, enter some tournaments to gain more practical experience. Whatever your level of skill, joining an amateur boxing association will help you learn more about the sport.

  1. Learn the Basics

    • Boxing is all about hand-eye coordination, timing and footwork. The basic punches are jabs, hooks, uppercuts and straight punches. Although it may seem easy to throw the different punches, it can take years of practice to develop the right body position to maximize strength and power. Also, footwork practice is vital for amateur boxers. Being able to move your body out of the way of your opponent's punch and then rocket back in with a return punch is a skill that takes much practice and experience to develop.

    Buy the Right Equipment

    • The right equipment will prevent you from injuring yourself or others. Ask the staff at a sporting-supplies store or a boxing gym for some recommendations for boxing shoes, gloves and other equipment. They will help you choose quality equipment that matches your budget.

    Find a Coach

    • You may be able to figure out some of the basics by watching instructional videos and reading books, but any serious amateur boxer needs a coach. A coach will give you customized training advice that will help you hone your natural skills and improve in the areas you are weak. One way to find a coach is to join a local boxing gym. Ask the staff for recommendations. Alternatively, you can contact local amateur boxing associations and ask them if they have a list of coaches who are willing to train beginners.

    Attend Amateur Boxing Events

    • If you are serious about amateur boxing, you need to go to where the amateur boxers are. Many amateur boxing organizations hold seminars and boxing exhibitions that give you an opportunity to make contacts and learn more about the sport. In the U.S., two major amateur boxing associations are USA Boxing and Golden Gloves of America. If you are in college, you may be able to get lessons and enter tournaments through your school's boxing program.