The Benefits of Boxing for Mental Health
17/05/2024
“Punch Like A Girl” – Women In Boxing
23/07/2024
Introduction
Having the right boxing equipment is crucial for anyone stepping into the ring, whether you're a beginner taking your first boxing class or an experienced fighter. The right equipment not only enhances your performance but also ensures your safety during training and sparring. In this guide, we'll cover the essential gear every boxer needs, from gloves and hand wraps to mouthguards and protective headgear.
Whether you're looking for boxing classes for beginners or just aiming to join an amateur boxing club, having the right gear is the first step towards achieving your boxing goals. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what equipment you need, how to choose the right items, and why each piece of gear is important.
Let's get started on gearing up for your boxing journey!
Boxing Gloves
Boxing gloves are arguably the most crucial piece of equipment for any boxer. They protect your hands and wrists from injuries while also cushioning your opponent during sparring or matches. Here are some key points to consider when choosing boxing gloves:
Types of Gloves
There are several types of gloves for different purposes – training gloves, sparring gloves, bag gloves, and competition gloves. Each type is designed to provide the appropriate level of protection and performance for specific activities.
Training Gloves
The choice for all-round boxing training, these gloves provide an equal measure of comfort, padding and durability.
Sparring Gloves
These gloves are specially designed to allow fights to emulate a real fight while they offer more padding and protection for both the hands and the punches landing on a sparring partner.
Bag Gloves
As the name suggests, these gloves are mainly for use with a punching bag, or mitts. The layered foam padding used in bag gloves are of a hard, high density nature not intended for sparring.
Competition Gloves
Whilst similar to the all-round training glove, competition gloves adhere to the strict rules and guidelines surrounding professional boxing.
Weight and Size
Gloves come in various weights, typically ranging from 8oz to 20oz. Heavier gloves offer more protection and are often used in training, while lighter gloves are preferred in competitions.
Material
Gloves are usually made from leather or synthetic materials. Leather gloves tend to be more durable and provide better protection, but they can be more expensive.
Fit and Comfort
Ensuring a snug fit is essential to prevent injuries. Try on different gloves to find a pair that fits comfortably and securely.
If you are interested in getting started with boxing, investing in a good pair of gloves is necessary. Properly fitted gloves can significantly enhance your training experience and protect you, and your opponent, from potential injuries.
Hand Wraps
Hand wraps are essential for protecting your hands and wrists during training and fights. They provide extra support and help prevent injuries such as fractures and sprains. Here’s what you need to know:
Purpose
Hand wraps stabilise your wrists, support the knuckles, and keep the bones in your hands aligned.
Types
There are traditional cloth hand wraps and quick wraps, which are easier to put on but may not offer the same level of support.
Length
Hand wraps come in various lengths, typically ranging from 120 to 180 inches. Longer wraps offer more protection and support. Here at St Austell Boxing Club we recommend 2.5m in length for children and 4.5m in length for adults.
Wrapping Technique
Learning the correct way to wrap your hands is crucial. Proper wrapping ensures that your hands are well-protected and comfortable inside the gloves.
For anyone attending boxing sessions at St Austell Boxing Club, especially beginners, we insist that people use hand wraps. Using hand wraps is vital to prevent injuries and maintain hand health.
Gum Shield
A gum shield is essential for protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw during sparring and matches. Here’s what to consider:
Type
There are boil-and-bite gum shields, which are customisable by boiling and then biting into them, and custom-fit gum shields made by dentists for a perfect fit.
Boil-and-bite gum shields are cheaper than a custom-fit one, but they aren't as reliable and do not offer the same high-level of protection.
Protection
A good gum shield absorbs shock and reduces the risk of dental injuries and concussions.
Comfort
Ensure the gum shield fits well and allows for easy breathing and communication.
Whilst gum shields offer a higher-level of protection than not having one, they are not mandatory for training at St Austell Boxing Club unless you are sparring. Head coach Jimmy Waugh will let you know when you are ready for that.
Headgear
Headgear provides critical protection during sparring sessions, helping to prevent cuts, bruises, and more severe injuries like concussions. Here’s what to look for:
Fit
The headgear should fit snugly without shifting during movement. Adjustable straps can help achieve the perfect fit.
Padding
Look for headgear with ample padding around the forehead, cheeks, and chin for maximum protection.
Visibility
Ensure the headgear does not obstruct your vision. Good headgear provides protection while allowing clear sightlines.
Boxing Shoes
Boxing shoes are designed to provide support, stability, and traction in the ring. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Fit
Shoes should fit snugly and offer good ankle support to prevent injuries.
Weight
Lightweight shoes allow for quick and agile movements.
Sole
A non-slip sole provides the necessary traction for maintaining balance and movement in the ring.
Whilst not necessarily needed for boxing training, having a good pair of boxing shoes when sparring or entering into a competition is a useful piece of boxing equipment that you'll sorely miss if you don't have them.
Additional Gear
Whilst not as essential as the other boxing equipment mentioned above, the following boxing gear will help you immensely as you get involved in the world of boxing, for both safety and comfort.
Boxing Shorts & Tracksuit Bottoms
Comfortable and durable shorts are essential for ease of movement which is especially useful during sparring and competitions. During training, we'd also recommend a comfortable pair of tracksuit bottoms.
Groin Protectors
Protects against low blows and is mandatory in competitive boxing.
Chest Protectors
Especially important for female boxers to prevent injuries.
Conclusion
Equipping yourself with the right gear is the first step towards a successful and safe boxing journey. Having the right boxing equipment ensures you and your opponent remain prepared and protected.
If you're searching for a local boxing club, visit us here at St Austell Amateur Boxing Club to learn more about our sessions and get expert advice on the best gear for your needs. Happy training!
