Training by yourself

[An old beginner]

Hey guys, apologies if this has been posted as I cannot find the 'search' button. Hopefully as a newbie, I can one day contribute as much myself to this forum as I now as my questions!

So I decided to take up boxing at a ripe old age and love it. Thing is where I do it, the set up is of a class with a lot of partner work. None of my friends box nor are keen hence I go alone. The trainer regularly works with me but otherwise leaves me to the bag in between when they have to address another's technique.

Thing is I am starting to feel that these classes are more of your typical gym class specialising in boxing rather than an actual traditional boxing centre (even if the centre calls itself a boxing centre). Unfortunately where I am located I just cannot find any other centres close enough so for the time being while I am a beginner I guess I will stick with here.

Just wondering if anyone ever went through this and that initial awkward stage. I guess I just don't know how I should go abouts to improve let alone finding someone to do partner work with. Is this how boxing clubs are normally i.e. you are better off joining with a friend to have someone to work with?

Cheers all. I admit I come from a more nerdier background (medical so hopefully I can help with injury related posts) and don't partake in things like this often if rarely.

[Redd Foxx]

Paying for a trainer to do sessions with you and only you is invaluable. You won't learn boxing in group classes or in fitness boxing classes. If you crave the science and mechanics, you need someone who observe your form and correct you as you go. 3 months of this, 2 or 3 times per-week, and you'll be set to work out on your own. Not that a competitive boxer could get away with just that but it's a great start for a guy who wants to stay fit and really understand the art at the same time.
Best of luck to you. It's a great way to stay fit and there are definite psychological benefits as well.

[stephenmc]

Paying for a trainer to do sessions with you and only you is invaluable. You won't learn boxing in group classes or in fitness boxing classes. If you crave the science and mechanics, you need someone who observe your form and correct you as you go. 3 months of this, 2 or 3 times per-week, and you'll be set to work out on your own. Not that a competitive boxer could get away with just that but it's a great start for a guy who wants to stay fit and really understand the art at the same time.
Best of luck to you. It's a great way to stay fit and there are definite psychological benefits as well.

I would NEARLY 100% agree....
But I think group classes (not stay fit) can be a great way to learn for a newcomer, the one bad part to it,is you may pick up some bad habbits,or you try to learn from someone who is relatively new themselves...
The good thing about it, if their is somebody their who trains who has real experience,watching their footwork and general boxing on the bags and what not and mimicking that could be good...dont be afraid to ask the more experienced lads stuff...

Normaly when you join a group session,(especially at an older age) the trainer will help a small bit but he may have boxers who are competing so its only obvious he will spend more time with them. He might think you are just in to get fit and mess around a bit on the bags,pads and all that.

Give it some time, if your inpatient,try get a private lesson to get you going.
Stick with it though, boxing is a great way to learn about yourself and real test yourself mentally and physically.

[Rockin']

I believe that he should find the biggest and meanest of the class and talk some **** to him. See where that gets 'em..........
Don't forget your mouth piece.......

[An old beginner]

Cheers Redd Foxx and StephenMC, all advice taken on board and will definately hit up some personal training when I have the funds saved up. Unfortunately I guess my hurdle at the moment is that all these classes are heavily into partner work and the gyms I have attended, people normally turn up with a significant other or a friend hence I am at it solo. I come from a team sport background hence it felt easier integrating myself into a team but these classes feel like they're tailored to people turning up, doing their thing then leaving. Hence I am at odds how best to get myself going. Here's to hoping that with continuity that I can manage to integrate myself into a group to train with.

[Mike_Erm]

check out my YouTube Channel it might help.... most of the people that watch my videos train out of there garage or are just starting.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0o...O9-VpCid3yr4rg

[HeadBodyBodyBody]

in my experience, it takes time for the person who runs these types of classes to appreciate your commitment and give you some attention. lots of people turn up to gyms and go for a short while, so why would the trainer lavish attention on newbies when they're not sure that you'll be sticking around? just give it time, be patient and the more you stick at it, the more tips and advice will come your way

[Syf]

in my experience, it takes time for the person who runs these types of classes to appreciate your commitment and give you some attention. lots of people turn up to gyms and go for a short while, so why would the trainer lavish attention on newbies when they're not sure that you'll be sticking around? just give it time, be patient and the more you stick at it, the more tips and advice will come your way

A good point. Too many expect their tutelage to be like a montage from a movie. Instant gratification. True proficiency at something takes time and persistence, do not become discouraged! If the trainer is not giving you the attention you want, then have a look around your gym. Use your best judgment as to who is the most skilled there, then ask them for advice. Most seasoned guys will take a beginner or two under their wing, because passing knowledge, is at the end of the day, very gratifying.

Rely on your senior brothers as well as your trainer. Which brings the next point, often times all you need to do is ask questions. Senior brothers or trainers, either one, ain't always gonna throw knowledge your way without you actively seeking it. Start asking questions and I'm sure you will get some good pointers.