Whether you want to become a full-time athlete or you just want to be physically healthier, you may want to give boxing a try. When you engage in this activity, things are exciting and somehow, you become inspired to be better. However, do not let the excitement overwhelm you that you overlook some mistakes that will affect your stance and performance. Don’t worry and don’t stress out. Every boxing newbie commits mistakes. The good news is, you can always get past them and strive harder to improve yourself.
But for you to improve your performance, you must be willing to acknowledge your mistakes. That is the only way you will be able to correct yourself. Luckily, this article will provide you with some important details. Here are some of the boxing blunders you should keep yourself from committing. You may also want to talk to your trainer and ask for pieces of helpful advice.
Mistake #1: Not Training Your Eyes
Boxing is also about speed, and if you want a good defense, you need to spot the punches and moves of your opponent. The usual instinct is to close one’s eyes and wince whenever there is incoming danger. This is an instinct that you need to unlearn, so open your eyes and focus on the moves of your opponent. When you have a sense of their speed and direction, it will be much easier for you to execute defensive maneuvers.
Mistake #2: Not Wearing Proper Safety Equipment
Boxers know that the sport can be dangerous, as their bodies continuously receive hits and forces. And because you are a beginner, you need to wear safety equipment. Boxing helmets and custom mouthguards are must-haves.
Mistake #3: Leveling Up Too Quickly
As a beginner, you may be stuck with basic moves and strategies for a while. And you may find this quite boring, especially if you want to level up your performance. But beware, as going above your level will put a strain on your body. Remember, boxing is all about conditioning. You cannot move up to the next level if your body is not properly conditioned and actually ready for it. You need to develop the core areas of your performance, such as speed, power, and strength.
Mistake #4: Focusing Only on Punching
The sport is not just about heavy punches and blocks. You need to have speed and a pair of sharp eyes, too. Invest time in improving your footwork and lower body strength. When you have strong punches and fast movements, you will make a formidable opponent.
Engaging in boxing, whether you want to become a full-time athlete or you are simply a fitness enthusiast, can give you a lot of health benefits. But if you want to become better at it, you need to spot some errors that you may be committing. It takes a humble character to do that. Do not be too conscious, though, as every boxing newbie usually commits them. What is important is that you are willing to improve yourself.