Boxing Training Tips
Routine and repetition are critical to boxing training. Repetitive movements help to neurologically-engrain specific patterns into the human mind until they become second nature. When the neurological pathway has been created, movements like intuitively slipping a right cross or rolling under a hook, become instinctual and feel more natural. You don’t have to think about it, the movements just happen. Keeping that in mind, it is also equally important to add some variety, periodically mixing up your approach to training. It's a type of “muscle confusion” that will keep your mind alert and your body strong, willing and capable to adapt.
One way of doing this, without outlining an actual workout routine is to forget about time. Leave the timer off for a day. Don't work on three minute or four minute rounds or even a one minute rest. Instead, try to work at a steady, but intense pace as long as you can without a break. Don’t watch the clock. Push yourself to the point where you feel like you absolutely HAVE to stop and catch your breath.
Next, approach the bags in a random manner. Move from one bag to the next with no specific order in mind. As you do this, as you switch from the heavy bag to the double-end bag, change-up your style. Box for one round. Brawl for one round. Stand right in front of the bag and go toe-to-toe or use angles and move around the bag rapidly. Work on the inside for a while and then switch to outside fighting. Fight from long-range and rely on the jab, then work inside and focus on body punching. Switch back and forth, rotate on the bags often and change-up your attack. You’ll enjoy the break from the monotony, it will keep you thinking and will ultimately make you a more adaptable fighter.
An entire workout focused on variety will keep you thinking and will provide a harder, more taxing session simply by being different. You just have to make sure to push yourself and don't let the clock dictate your pace. That doesn't mean you can't take some time off during the round. You should work to control the action and tempo just like you would in a fight. You can slow the pace down, be more methodical and deliberate with your punches, but don't stay in that mode. Pick the intensity back up as soon as you feel like you can get your breath and legs under you. Then, go at it again.
The change of pace and order will be refreshing. You may also find that by pitting your body against its own capability instead of letting the second hand of the clock dictate the pace, you’re able to push yourself and give a little bit more than you thought you could have.