If your first boxing lesson is coming up, whether it is for self-defense or staying in shape, you might not know what to expect. There are ways to ensure the safety and success of your first lesson. They will help you train better, smarter, and harder. Below, learn tips all beginner boxers need to know for initial class success. 

5 Boxing Tips for Beginners

1. Drink Plenty of Water

Make up for the water you’re losing through sweat by staying hydrated. Drink at least a cup of water every hour, if not more, depending on training intensity. Hydrated muscles won’t cramp so you can continue boxing instead of ending your session early. Water also helps you stay energized as you burn calories.

2. Wear Form-Fitting Clothes

Avoid baggy clothing that can get caught on equipment, grabbed by your sparring opponent, or obstruct your vision. Stick to form-fitting clothes that you feel completely comfortable in so you can turn your body as necessary to throw punches such as long jabs and short right hooks.

3. Protect Your Hands

Always wrap your hands prior to each boxing class with quality tape to protect the skin and support the bones and muscles. It may take a couple tries to wrap your hands in the way that works best for you. However, focus on padding your knuckles and stabilizing your wrists. 

4. Punch Lightly

Start with light bag punching so that you don’t wear yourself out too quickly and lose training time. Focus on your form, such as turning your body for each punch, and keep each jab sharp to avoid wrist injuries from “sloppy” punches. Breathe deeply and stop when you start feeling tired. Aim to last at least five minutes longer every day to build your endurance and strength.

5. Be Aware of Your Stance & Footwork

Pay attention to your stance, whether you’re doing bag work or sparring with a partner. Keep your knees soft instead of locked to avoid weight distribution issues that leave you vulnerable. Once you have your stance down, focus on increasing footwork speed and coordination with exercises such as jumping rope and shadowboxing. 

Take boxing classes at Against The Ropes Boxing to train the right way. The Chandler, AZ-based training facility and fitness center offers group and individual classes to boxers of all ages. Call (480) 590-3242 today to book a class or view the latest training videos on Facebook. View what athletes are saying about the gym on Yelp.