Although modern society has pared down the more violent aspects of many sports, the oldest contact sport of all has enjoyed renewed popularity in the UK.



As an article on EscapeFitness.com recently pointed out, boxing has made a comeback and not only in the roughest gyms

Many fitness centres, such as Gorton club in Gorton, Manchester have made boxing not only popular, but the main attraction. Called First Box Stations, these areas of the gym will often contain a boxing ring, speedballs, punching bags and loads of eager young athletes ready to test their mettle against each other.

The point to boxing is simple, however to stop the event from becoming an all-out brawl and keep it a real sport, some gyms have became part of OUTBOXTM, which is the only boxing qualification for health and fitness staff that has been accredited by the British Boxing Board of Control. These trainers also steer potential warriors away from the ring and get them to focus on classes emphasizing technique, safety and the positive physical impact of boxing.

Even though classes are designed keeping the needs of men and women in mind, many training centres are offering individual women-only classes also. Additionally, as the class improves, the physical demands increase. Like any sport, it requires time, commitment and focus, but the payoffs are there.

The First Box stations are often times centered in the middle of the gym, providing other athletes a show while they work and develop an increasing interest in the sport. Workout stations will often times combine their equipment in such a way that multiple athletes can make use of the bags and speed balls, and group exercise is encouraged. As well as the traditional jump rope, adequate room is provided for jogging.

Working the entire body in muscle development and endurance, boxing is such an amazing sport and a great way to stay in shape. It stresses flexibility, control, pacing and stamina as well as strength and speed. When properly applied, boxing can be one of the most physically demanding sports an athlete can participate in.

If boxing sounds like something you want to participate in, checkout EscapeFitness.com for equipment and training advice.