When you’re throwing punches in the ring, every hour of training, learning moves, and working on your technique will be put to the test. However, if you haven’t been working on the speed of your reflexes, all that strategy may not be enough to conquer your opponent. Raise your confidence and success rate by integrating these reflex exercises into your boxing training routine.

How to Improve Your Boxing Reflex Speed

1. Coin Catch

You can complete this exercise no matter where you are, which allows you to improve your reflexes in and out of the gym. Simply put your arm out in front of you, so the back of your hand faces the ceiling and your elbow is slightly bent. Use the other arm to put a quarter on top of your hand. Throw the coin into the air by flicking your hand up, then try to catch it with the same hand on the descent. 

2. Double-End Bag Exercise

Instead of expending all your energy on the heavy bag, head over to the small double-end bag when you have time at the gym. This tool will force you to move faster and hit different points every time, as the ball’s flexible ends allow it to oscillate like a moving target. This is a useful way to warm up before sparring with your trainer or partner and start preparing your brain to anticipate real punches.

3. Foam Stick Drill

While you’ve likely worked pad drills into your training regimen, try substituting foam sticks for the wider, more stable pads. Not only do these make for narrower targets, but they also bend back and forth as you hit them, forcing you to sharpen your reflexes.

Since they’re so thin, foam sticks also train your awareness of peripheral punches. Face forward and have your partner stand at 90 degrees, so you have to use the edges of your vision, where your reflexes are even weaker, to react.

If you’re hoping to put your sharpened reflexes to the test, consider facing Tessa Moon of Honolulu’s TM Productions. This skilled boxer began training in San Francisco, where she won all 12 amateur fights before moving to Hawaii. She’s currently looking for other boxers to compete against or promoters interested in setting up a match. To learn more about Tessa, visit her website or call (808) 291-7817 today.