By John Brown

PURPOSE OF MANUAL
The purpose of this manual is to give a brief, but inclusive introductory course to the great sport of amateur boxing.
Amateur boxing parallels life in many respects. It’s important that you learn and grow every day. The coach or
boxer who thinks he knows all there is to know or doesn’t want to take the time to learn, will never achieve his
full potential. Even we do not claim to have all of the answers.

In order for amateur boxing to become more popular, it is the job of all coaches to stress fundamentals, particularly
those pertaining to defense. A boxing match is meant to be a contest of skill rather than power, brute force or
toughness.

It is extremely important to remember that amateur boxing should be fun. The more fun you can make it, the more
participants you will have and the more frequently they will workout. The surest way to make boxing fun is to keep
it safe. This can be accomplished by teaching the fundamentals depicted in this manual and by using proper
safety equipment.

WHAT IS AMATEUR BOXING?

Amateur boxing is a very positive sport as well as a terrific way
to combat juvenile delinquency. It is completely different from
professional boxing in its goals, objectives, scoring and
equipment.

Amateur boxing can be an excellent source of conditioning for

the high school athlete during the off-season. It also provides
the option for a youngster who is not involved in school sports
programs or does not desire to participate in team sports.

Amateur boxing can also provide a young person with the

opportunity to satisfy the basic human need of recognition in a
positive manner. All too often this need is met through delinquent
behavior.

In amateur boxing, points are scored by landing clean blows, regardless of their power. A power punch that knocks
an opponent down scores the same as a left jab. Consequently, a boxer’s goal should be to outbox his opponent by
landing numerous clean, effective blows rather than going for a knockout that may not happen.

When properly coached and supervised, amateur boxing can be an extremely fulfilling and beneficial experience for
young people. It can be used as a vehicle to instruct sportsmanship, the value of conditioning and a positive release
of frustrations and energies, in addition to building self-confidence and character.

IS AMATEUR BOXING SAFE?

The safety of amateur boxing has been well documented. The
1998 National Safety Council ranked boxing 71st in sports injuries,
well below mainstream sports like wrestling, football, baseball,
soccer and even bowling. Most of the negative publicity about
the sport centers around professional boxing, when, in fact
professional boxing is much different than amateur boxing.

No other amateur sport takes more precautions, in regard to safety,

than amateur boxing. Amateur boxers must receive a physical
examination before and after each competition. Special protective
equipment is mandatory for each competition. The primary directive
of all amateur referees is the safety of the boxers. In addition,
all competition gloves and headgear contain exact combinations
of shock-absorbing foams to reduce the impact of a blow. Every
possible precaution is taken to keep amateur boxing safe.

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THE PROPER WAY TO COACH
AMATEUR BOXING
In order for the sport of boxing to thrive in the future, all attention
and effort has to be dedicated to the safety of the boxer.
Any coach that puts a new or inexperienced boxer in the ring
to spar before teaching him the fundamentals of offense and
defense has no business coaching. Sparring is practice boxing.
There is nothing to practice if you haven’t been taught anything.
Putting inexperienced youngsters in the ring before they’re ready
will harm a novice boxer, either physically or psychologically.
Either way, you’ve lost the boxer. To put new kids in the ring
to “see how tough they are” is insane and is an injustice to
the sport.

Teach them offense and defense and require them to attain a

level of proper conditioning before putting them in the ring. You’ll
have better developed boxers and a higher number of participants
by taking this approach. Teach and make your boxers work on defense. Although much of the available equipment is
geared towards offense, this is only half the game. Defense should be practiced each workout session just like hitting
the heavybag. The less you get hit, the more fun boxing is. Learn from other coaches, their tricks of coaching and
conditioning, and implement them into your program. The worst coach is one that thinks he knows all there is to know.

Beginning fundamentals should include proper stance, delivery of a left jab and straight right hand. Attention should
be given to the proper position of hands and elbows. These basics should be practiced nightly while going through
the normal workout routine: shadowboxing, heavybag, speed bag and double end bag.

After the offensive fundamentals are learned, move on to the basic defensive fundamentals. Offense and defense should
be taught hand-in-hand. If a club has too many boxers for the coaches to work with individually, assign each boxer a
partner to practice on each other’s defense.

After your boxers have a working knowledge of offense and defense, have attained a desirable level of conditioning
and are able to go three rounds, it is time to start sparring. Sparring means instructive boxing. The purpose of sparring
is to work on fundamentals. This cannot be accomplished unless the sparring session is properly controlled. First of
all, each new boxer should spar with a more experienced boxer who can control both himself and the action.
The experienced boxer should lightly strike the new boxer when he makes mistakes. He should encourage the
new boxer to work on his left jab and mobility.

If you put two new boxers together, you’ll have a brawl on your hands. No one will learn anything, and someone could
get hurt. Remember boxing is supposed to be fun—fighting for your life isn’t.

As your new boxer progresses, advanced offensive and defensive techniques can be taught and sparring can be
adjusted to meet his needs.

TEACH YOUR BOXERS THE

FOUR C’S OF AMATEUR BOXING:
– Coachability: A boxer must have the mental discipline to take instruction that
he receives and incorporate it into his boxing style. Otherwise, he
will never improve.
– Conditioning: It is impossible to learn if a boxer is too tired to concentrate on
new techniques. Most amateur bouts are won and lost due
to conditioning.
– Concentration: If a boxer has the ability to block out everything and concentrate
on the task at hand, he will improve rapidly.
– Champion: If a boxer is coachable, in condition and concentrates on his boxing,
he will be a champion.

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CONDITIONING THROUGH TRAINING
Training is essential preparation for providing the strength and endurance needed for boxing. Success in competition
is directly proportionate to the amount of effort that is put into training. Training should be conducted at a rapid
pace to train the body, particularly the cardiovascular system, for quick, explosive action. Currently, in amateur
boxing, bouts are four rounds in duration, which does not leave time for “feeling out” your opponent or pacing
yourself. A boxer should train for the same duration in which he is going to compete. Both open and novice boxers
(an athlete who has less than 10 bouts), should be working on no more than a two minute clock and working at
100% effort. All too often a boxer working longer than two minute rounds conditions his body to work at 80% of
its physical potential. Unfortunately, when 100% is needed in competition, he is not prepared for it. The key is to
train at the same duration as competition and at 100% intensity. Most gyms are open only three nights a week,
which is adequate and keeps the coach and boxers from getting burned out. To complement the gym work, an
aspiring champion must workout two or three additional days of the week. Your better, more dedicated boxers
should have their own heavybag at home so that shadowboxing, heavybag work and running can be conducted
when the gym is closed.

The following list of exercise programs and cross-training sports will greatly increase the conditioning and cardio-
vascular levels of your athletes, and should be encouraged as additional methods of training for your boxers:

Boxing Swimming Weight Lifting,

Aerobics Circuit Training Nautilus
*Ringside offers several videotapes, books and programs that cover these and many other topics.

CONDITIONING IS 80% OF
AMATEUR BOXING
The following is a recommended workout schedule. Remember, don’t just go
through the motions. Work on your fundamentals. Each boxer, depending on
physical makeup, temperament and agility, will develop a style which he feels
comfortable with. Unfortunately, in amateur boxing, due to its short duration, you
may not have time to make your opponent “fight your fight”. In this case, it would
be to your advantage to do what may not normally be your style. In order to be
prepared for this situation, you must work on all three of the following styles when
you are shadowboxing, working the heavybag or the double end bag.

1. Joe Frazier: Going after your opponent, keeping constant pressure on him,
moving in with hands held high, bobbing, weaving and slipping punches. This
style is necessary to develop the skills of a good stick-and-move boxer. DO NOT
punch while you are moving in. This is what the boxer wants you to do so that he
can step back out of your punching range and stick you in the nose with his
educated left jab. Move in, get close and then unleash a barrage of punches.
Constant pressure and not hitting until you are very close to your opponent is key.

2. Muhammad Ali: Boxing, sticking and moving. When your opponent gets set to punch, step back or sidestep
and throw your left jab. His punches should land short and your jab should connect. When your opponent leaves
himself open, fire a quick combination and then get out of his punching range.

3. In and Out: This is probably the most effective of all styles because of the way amateur bouts are judged.
The idea is simple—move in, hit and move out before you get hit. When your opponent moves in, step out of
his punching range and then slide in and hit.

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BASIC PROGRAM All new boxers should have their program
laid out for them so that they have
WARM-UP guidelines to follow and know what to do
It is very important that all athletes take at least 10 to 15
each day they get to the gym.
minutes to thoroughly stretch ALL of the major muscle
groups (arms, legs, back, abdomen, etc.) before working — Warm-up 5 minutes
out. A flexible muscle is less likely to cramp or pull. — Stretching 10 minutes
Remember that flexibility is just as important as power.
— 3 Rounds of Shadowboxing
SHADOWBOXING — 3-4 Rounds of Sparring
(twice a week)
This is a great way to begin your workout. The idea is to
spar against an imaginary opponent. You can work on — 3 Rounds of the Heavybag
different styles and opponents. Imagine that you are — 3 Rounds of the Double End Bag
working against Ali the first round, Frazier the second
round and then work on the “In and Out” in the third. — 3 Rounds of the Jump Rope
— 3 Rounds on the Punch Mitts
HEAVYBAG or Coach Spar Mitts
Before you begin any bag work, be sure you have a good — 3 Rounds on the Speed Bag
pair of gloves. The heavybag and double end bag should — Abdominal Exercises and
be hit with large bag gloves for two reasons: Stretching 20 minutes
1. To protect the 26 small, delicate bones of the hand. Each round should last two minutes with
One hand injury can end a career. up to one minute rest in between.
2. In competition, 10 or 12 ounce gloves will be used. It
does not make sense to train with lighter gloves than that. Your arms need to be conditioned for what will be used in
competition.

The heavybag develops punching power and speed. Don’t just go through the motions
of hitting the bag. Act like the bag can hit back. Slip these imaginary punches and counter.
At most clubs, they have a variety of heavybags: 70 lb. bags, 40 lb. bags, water bags
and uppercut bags. Each one responds differently when punched just like each of your
opponents will box differently. Rotate on your bags.

As the boxer’s level of ability improves with each bag, increase the intensity of the workout
until the athlete can go non-stop for three rounds. At that point, you’ll know that your
boxer is in shape!

Ringside offers a complete DOUBLE END BAG

line of both heavybags The primary purpose of this bag is to work on your jabs and quick combinations. It can
and double end bags. also be used to practice slipping punches. Again, as with the heavybag, you must pretend
that the double end bag can hit back, so don’t forget your defense. Make your jab work
like a well-oiled piston and throw combinations in bunches of five to seven punches.

JUMP ROPE
A quality speed rope is necessary to condition the legs and develop the cardiovascular
endurance. Always jump on a padded surface. Jumping on concrete is too easy and bad
for your legs. You should complete three rounds of rope jumping.

SPEED BAG
This light bag does wonders to improve arm endurance
and hand-eye coordination. Don’t just hit the bag. Work it.
Learn the double hit movement. Hit it once with each hand.
Hit it 25 times with each hand. Alternate these routines, work
hard and the speed bag can be a valuable tool. For a variation,
remove some air (about 25%) from the bag and hit it. It will
force you to punch harder.

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DRILL WORK Drill work is a great way to work on specific techniques in a controlled
situation. Punch mitts can be used to work on certain combinations,
to learn proper footwork and even defense. Start your new boxers
with basic left/right combinations. As they improve, add more punches. When they master this, try moving a little.
Continue to add punches and movement as they improve. With some of the mitts available (Coach Spar Mitts), you
can also help your boxers work on defense. Start by throwing a jab at about half speed at your athlete. He/she should
slip the punch or catch the punch and counter with a jab or straight right. As the boxer gets better at this, increase the
speed until you are imitating an actual punch.

PUNCH MITTS AND DRILL

EQUIPMENT FOR COACHES
PUNCH MITTS
There is a large selection of punch mitts available today. Many of the mitts have
specific uses, while others do the basic job of providing the boxer with a target.
Basically, the punch mitts are an offensive target that the coach or trainer can
control to help a boxer work on different offensive skills. Ringside has a complete
line of punch mitts to help you come up with the mitt that best fits your program.

COACH SPAR MITTS

These mitts were designed specifically by
Ringside to give the coach the ability to teach both offense and defense at the
same time. These mitts are padded so that the coach can “catch” the punches
just like regular punch mitts. The aspect that makes these mitts different is that
they also give the coach the ability to “tap” the boxer back when he makes a
mistake. This much more effectively stimulates a real opponent. This ability to
work on defense and offense at the same time makes these mitts a must for
every gym.

SUPER BODY PROTECTOR

The Super Body Protector provides the coach with a whole new training option.
Now his athlete can work on body punches during punch mitt drills. The protection
provided to the coach by the Super Body Protector means you can work on the
forgotten art of body punching without worrying about taking a pounding.

PUNCH SHIELD
This device is a great way to work on
offensive techniques with even the heaviest hitter. It provides a heavily padded
target that the coach can move and adjust to fit the specific techniques he is
working on.

There are many other great training devices available from Ringside that a coach
can use to give just the right look to any particular workout.

SPARRING
When you commence sparring, always
try to work on a new punch, a different
move or defense technique. Never
spar just to be sparring. Learn to love to spar. Boxing can only be learned through
boxing. If you’re sparring with someone of lesser ability, you can still work on a
variety of techniques such as body attack, defense or even offense by making
your punches slightly miss their mark (your sparring partner). By missing punches
you can evaluate if you are exercising proper balance. Missing punches also
takes more energy and consequently will aid in your conditioning.

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EXERCISES STOMACH
Most boxers look like they have strong stomach muscles, but in reality
they are very weak in this area. Below are a few brief abdominal exercises.
DO ALL UNTIL YOU GET A GOOD BURN!
1. Lay on back, knees up, hands behind head, alternate elbows to knees.
2. Lay on back, knees up, put ankle of one foot on opposite knee, hands behind head, alternate elbows to knee.
Switch ankle and knee positions.
3. Lay flat on back with legs in air at right angle to upper body, alternate elbows to knees.
4. Lay flat on back, bring knees up to chest, legs back to floor.
5. Lay flat on back, elbows behind head, pump legs in bicycle fashion touching elbow to opposite knee.

The medicine ball is a valuable tool in conditioning the stomach. A couple of basic drills follow.
1. Stand back to back with a partner. Plant your legs firmly and rapidly hand the medicine ball off to each other
in a circular fashion. Focus on rotating and twisting at the waist to gain torque in your punches.
2. Hold the medicine ball against your chest while lying on your back. Bend your legs and lie directly in front of
a partner. Sit-up and at the top of the movement throw the medicine ball to your partner. He will mimic your
movement and throw it back.

A more complete guide to medicine ball workouts is provided free of charge with any Ringside Medicine Ball purchase.
Ringside also offers books and videos that expand on the different workouts you can do with the medicine ball.

NECK
This is the most under-worked area on a boxer’s body and must be strengthened to protect a boxer’s head from rotating
in a violent nature when hit with a good shot. Exercising the neck is of extreme importance. Do the following exercises
religiously.
1. The Wrap Around Neck Strengthener is convenient and very effective. This weighted training device is used
by laying flat on the floor. Begin on your back and bend your head forward until your chin touches your chest.
Slowly return your head to its starting position. Next, roll over to your side and lift your head to touch your ear.
Do this on both sides and then lay face down. Lift your head until it is vertical to the floor, then return it to a
horizontal position. Each exercise should be performed in a controlled, deliberate fashion with 15-20 repetitions
per side.
2. The Ringside Neck Strengthener incorporates cables to utilize resistance training which has proven to be
extremely effective. This unique cable-system can be attached to a door knob, a ring post or any hook.
The exercises it employs are the same as the Wrap Around Neck Strengthener only they’re done from a
standing position.

An instruction guide is included with each of these neck-strengthening devices when ordered from Ringside.

ADDITIONAL TRAINING
As previously stated, to become proficient, a boxer needs to train more than three days a week.Running is an excellent
means of conditioning for boxing, if done properly. Keep in mind that you are training for amateur boxing, not cross-
country running or marathon racing. Roadwork should be done as follows:
1. Warm-up by stretching out. 2. Jog a mile or so to warm-up.
3. Now comes the workout—Sprint for the same amount of time you will be boxing.
· Junior Division Age 10-11 1 Minute · Intermediate Division Age 12-13 1 ½ Minutes
· Senior Division Age 14-15 2 Minutes · Novice Division Age 16-20 2 Minutes
· Open Division Age 21 or over, 2 Minutes
Novice Champ

Then rest for one minute and repeat this process three times. When you start to get in shape, you should be covering
more ground during your sprint. Bring a stopwatch or watch with a second hand to time yourself.

After you have completed your intense sprint program, it is a good idea to finish up with a jog of any length you desire,
but remember that your real amateur boxing workout is the sprint routine. Again, the key is training your body for quick,
explosive, intensive action.

For a more comprehensive running program, USA Boxing has produced a book called “Coaching Olympic-Style
Boxing”. This details, among other aspects of training, an intense interval running program. “Coaching Olympic-Style
Boxing” is available from Ringside and should be a part of every coach and boxer’s library.

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BASIC FUNDAMENTALS
In order to be a competent boxer, you must master the basic fundamentals. Every advanced move or technique
is based on having solid fundamentals. Take your time and learn them well. This is the most important step in
amateur boxing.

1. FOOTWORK: Place your left foot and left shoulder out front. Your feet should be the length of a normal
step apart. Your left knee should be bent for balance, and your feet should be pointing toward your opponent.
Your feet must also remain apart for purpose of balance. If you move forward, move the left leg first and pick
up the distance with the right foot. If you move backward, move the right foot back and then move the left foot
after. Moving left or right is accomplished by stepping sideways with the foot of the direction you wish to move.
For instance, if you want to move left, move the left foot to the left and then bring over the right foot. Do the
opposite to move right. Do not get into the bad habit of bringing your feet together after you throw punches.
It is a waste of energy. Plus, whenever your feet are together, you’re susceptible to being either hit or pushed
off balance. Also, when you move forward, don’t drag your right foot. Use it. Make it work so that your weight
is evenly distributed.

It is extremely important that your left shoulder is “out front” or pointing towards your opponent. This will allow
for full rotation of the shoulders and hips when throwing the right hand. It also puts you in the proper defensive
position to guard against the right hand.

Make sure the left shoulder is always higher than the right. If not, you will be susceptible to right hands.
A good technique for raising the left shoulder is to bend the right knee. This actually lowers the right shoulder,
which should then make the left higher.

2.ELBOWS IN FRONT OF BODY: This will

protect your body against body punches, but
more importantly, it will cause your hands to be
positioned in front of your head. This is the ideal
defensive position. Also having the elbows in
front of the body is the proper position from
which to throw punches and also to block
uppercuts.

3.HANDS IN FRONT OF HEAD: Your

hands should always be held at cheek level
to protect the head against your opponent’s
blows. The arms from the elbow to the fist
must be in a vertical (straight up and down)
position at all times.

4. THROW PUNCHES STRAIGHT OUT AND

BRING STRAIGHT BACK TO HEAD: When
punches are thrown, the hands should be
returned to their on-guard position as quickly
as possible to protect the head.

BASIC OFFENSE LEFT JAB

This is the most important punch in boxing. The
purpose of the left jab is to keep your opponent on the defense and to accumulate points. If you are keeping a jab in
your opponents face, he will have to concern himself with defense which will afford him less time to work on his offense
(hitting you in the nose). You can use the jab to disrupt your opponent’s rhythm and timing, in addition to using it to
control the bout.

The left jab is thrown by extending the left hand and arm fully, keeping to left elbow down and turning the forearm so
that the knuckles land in a horizontal position. Speed is derived by keeping the elbow down and snapping the arm
forward at the elbow joint. Power is possible by slightly pushing the body, particularly your left shoulder, forward with
your right foot and leg when the jab is thrown.
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 THE KEYS TO THE LEFT JAB ARE:
1. Throw it from the head.
2. Keep your elbow down.
3. Snap the arm forward at the elbow joint.
4. Push the left shoulder forward by pushing
from the floor with the right foot.
5. Return the jab back to the head as quickly
as you throw it out.
6. Dot not move your right elbow when throwing the left.

How to jab is as important as knowing when to jab. Unless you are using the
jab for probing purposes, it should not be used unless your opponent is within
punching range. Don’t throw it just to be doing something. Doing so will afford
your opponent the opportunity to gauge your speed and time your punches.
Work on the jab until your left arm almost falls off. Take a whole week in the
gym and throw only this punch. If you can develop a solid left jab, you will be
a good boxer.

STRAIGHT RIGHT
For the beginner, this will be your power punch because
it is delivered with the weight of the body.

1. The right is normally thrown after the left jab.

2. Throw the right from the face and bring the
right elbow up to about shoulder level.
3. The left knee should be bent for balance.
4. Your power will be derived by pushing and
pivoting the right foot, whipping your right
shoulder forward and pivoting the hips.
5. Return the right immediately to the head.

9
BASIC DEFENSE
These basic defensive maneuvers should be practiced over and over
with a teammate so that they eventually become a reflex action. Have
your partner throw punches in slow motion while you block them. After
the technique is mastered, have him pick up the pace to simulate the
real thing.

DEFENSE AGAINST THE LEFT JAB

1. THE CATCH: The left jab is caught in the palm of the open right
glove (catcher’s mitt). Do not reach out for the jab. Let it come to you.
Be sure to keep up resistance in your right hand so you don’t hit
yourself.

2. SLIPPING: This involves avoiding a blow without actually moving

the body out of range. The purpose of slipping is to avoid the blow and
maintain the position to counter. It calls for exact timing and judgment.
To be effective, it must be executed so that the blow is escaped by only
the smallest margin. The two basic slips are outside and inside.

OUTSIDE SLIP: This involves bending at the knees and dropping

the upper body forward and to the right, outside of your opponent’s
left hand. The outside slip is relatively safe because you are slipping
away from the right hand. Always take your catcher’s mitt with you when
you slip as a backup system

INSIDE SLIP: This involves bending at

the knees and dropping the upper body
forward to the left, inside of the opponent’s
left jab. Your head should end up directly
over your left knee. This is a somewhat
dangerous move because you are moving
into your opponent’s right hand.

DEFENSE AGAINST THE STRAIGHT RIGHT

1. Keeping the left hand in proper position in front of the head should
block most rights.

2. DUCK OR SLIP: Drop the upper body and head forward and to the
left, allowing the right to pass safely by. Be sure to keep your hands in front
of your head as a backup system and also that you will not be cautioned
for head-butting.

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ADVANCED TECHNIQUES
THE LEFT HOOK
The left hook is the most difficult punch to learn correctly. It should never
be used as a lead punch, only when actual openings are present.

1. This is usually thrown from a close position after a

left jab or a right hand.
2. Use the left foot and hip to pivot or turn your body while
bringing up the elbow to a horizontal position.
3. The forearm should be parallel to the ground when
the hook lands.
4. The hook is most often thrown with:
· Palm In: With this hook, the palm of the hand faces your body.
This is somewhat difficult to master, but when thrown
correctly it can be extremely effective.
5. Keep your left knee bent for balance.
6. Return to the “on guard” position.

DEFENSE TO THE LEFT HOOK

1. Forearm Block: Cover the right side of your head with your right
arm and touch your ear with your right glove.
2. Ducking: Bend your upper body forward from the waist and dip both
knees allowing your head to drop underneath the hook. While ducking,
be sure not to take your eyes off your opponent.

UPPERCUTS
1. These are usually thrown from the inside with the right after closing
the distance with a left jab or hook. Your arm should be in a half-bent
position and should not dip below the waistline.

DEFENSE AGAINST
UPPERCUTS
1. The most effective defense is
merely stepping back out of range.
2. Block with your hands and
forearms, kept in front of your
head and body.

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FEINTING, DRAWING, COMBINATIONS
SHELLING-UP AND This is a series of blows delivered in a
natural sequence so that an opening
may result. As a combination is thrown,
INFIGHTING the punches should increase in
intensity so that the later blows have
FEINTING more power.
Feinting is a characteristic of the advanced boxer. It requires using the
eyes, hands, body and legs in a single effort to deceive the opponent, BASIC COMBINATIONS
to create openings.
1. Double or triple left jab to
1. ARM FEINTS: This includes simply appearing to punch a specific the chin.
area with one hand and then doing the opposite.
2. Left jab to the chin followed
2.BODY FEINTS: This includes making various movements with the by a left jab to the body.
body to check your opponent’s reaction, such as advancing quickly,
dropping your knees or pivoting your shoulders. 3. Left jab to the body followed
by a left jab to the chin.

4. Left jab to the chin, straight

DRAWING right to the chin (the old
Drawing is similar to feinting. In feinting, an opening is created, while one-two).
in drawing, some part of the body or head is left unprotected in order to
entice the opponent into throwing a specific blow, so that a counter attack 5. Left jab to the chin and a
can be executed.
straight right to the body.

6. Left jab to the body and a

SHELLING UP
This simply means to completely
cover your head and body so that no
vulnerable area is exposed. It is
especially effective when moving
an opponent to work off his chest
and cut off the punching room.
Your hands must be kept in front
of your head or a foul for butting
will be called.
straight right to the chin.
7. Left jab to the chin, straight
right to the chin and a left hook
to the chin.
8. Left jab to the body and a
straight right to the body.
9. Hooking off the jab—left jab
to the chin and a left hook to
the chin.

10. Left jab to the chin, straight

right to the body and a left
hook to the chin.
INFIGHTING
This is the art of boxing at close 11. Straight right to the body and
range. To obtain the inside position, a left hook to the chin.
it is necessary to advance quickly,
slip, weave, duck, draw, or feint. 12. Straight right to chin and a
left hook to the chin.

13. Straight right to the chin and

a left hook to the body.

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RING GENERALSHIP RING STRATEGY
Ring generalship is a general plan of strategy thought out in advance 1. USE YOUR HEAD. Fight with
of the bout which attempts to nullify the opponent’s strength and your head, not your hands. Out-
take advantage of his weakness. It also means having the ability to think your opponent, and you will
adapt one’s style to that of the opponent. out-box him.

HOW TO BOX A TALL OPPONENT 2. BE IN CONDITION. Nothing

1. A tall opponent is probably accustomed to having opponents makes up for good physical
come to him. Make him come to you conditioning.
2. If he won’t come to you, move in fast and hit. Remain there if you
are successful, otherwise move out quickly. 3. RELAX.
If you are tense, you expend energy.

HOW TO BOX A RUSHER 4. KNOW THE FUNDAMENTALS.

1. Sidestep and stick with the left
jab followed by a right when
possible.
2. If the rusher gets close, shell up
and move in, giving him no
punching room.
HOW TO BOX A JABBER
1. Keep your right hand in proper
defensive position to catch
the jab.
2. Slip or duck the jab and move in
to counter to the body or head.
3. Continually force your opponent
and try to corner him on the ropes
so that close range can be
attained.
There will be many chances to
use them.
5. APPEAR CONFIDENT AT
ALL TIMES. If you are hurt,
don’t show it.
6. NEVER FORGET THAT YOUR
OPPONENT IS AS TIRED AS
YOU ARE.
7. THE LEFT HAND IS THE
SAFEST LEAD. Use it often.
8. KEEP MOVING. To stand in one
spot means you are an easy target.
However, don’t jump around and
make unnecessary movements.
9. CARRY YOUR HANDS
HIGH AT ALL TIMES.

HOW TO BOX A SLUGGER 10. PUNCH WHEN YOUR

1. Keep moving. Don’t let your opponent get set. OPPONENT IS IN RANGE.
2. Move in quickly and launch a sudden attack. If you wait, you will be punched.
3. Move out quickly and don’t slug. 11. IF A BLOW IS MISSED OR
YOU ARE OFF-BALANCE,
COVER UP AND PROTECT
HOW TO BOX A SOUTH-PAW YOURSELF .
(LEFT HANDED BOXER)
1. Don’t lead. Make the south-paw come to you. 12. PUZZLE THE OPPONENT BY
A VARIETY OF MANEUVERS.
2. All south-paws have very powerful straight left hands. Always circle
Rarely do the same thing
to your left, away from the left hand. Keep your right hand (catcher’s
twice in succession.
mitt) ready to catch his big left hand if he throws it.
3. When the south-paw throws a jab, slip to his left and counter 13. WHENEVER YOUR
with a left hook. OPPONENT GETS
4. Remember the left hook is the most effective weapon against SET TO HIT , MOVE.
a south-paw.

13
DIET
The proper diet for a boxer would be much like the proper diet for
BASIC RULES
a wrestler or sprinter. A high carbohydrate diet with a fair amount of 1. No hitting below the
protein and low fat is a real plus. A boxer should eat balanced meals belt or behind the head.
of meat, fish, poultry, vegetables, fruits and whole grain breads and
cereals.
2. No kidney punches.
Try to avoid eating large amounts of red meat. Eat more fish, chicken
and turkey. Avoid processed foods that are full of chemicals such as 3. No holding.
potato chips, most snacks, ice cream, etc. Sugar is a poison to the
body. Keep its use to a minimum level. Because boxing is so vigorous, 4. No hitting with the
it is advisable that a daily vitamin supplement be used. Drink a large
amount of water to replenish lost liquids and to clean out your system.
open glove.
Adelle Davis, a famous nutritionist said it best, “You are what you
eat”. 5. No hitting on the break

LOSING WEIGHT 6. Never talk to the referee

Generally speaking, you will be better off boxing in the lowest possible of your opponent during
weight class so that you might have a power and strength advantage. the bout.
There is a limit to how far you can go, and your body will usually
tell you that limit.Bringing your weight down must be done gradually,
not in one week. Do not fast. Eat fruits, vegetables and low
7. Protect yourself at
calorie meats. all times.

8. No holding and hitting.

HOW TO WIN AN 9. No moving in on an
AMATEUR BOUT opponent unless your
hands are in front of
Amateur bouts are judged by trained officials who are counting the your head.
number of effective blows that are landed, but the factor of human
nature should still be considered. Judges will look for certain things
that can influence their vote. The following are a few of these things.
10. No intentional spitting
out of your mouthpiece.
1. When you come into the ring, appear confident, but never cocky.
Act like you know what you’re doing and try to achieve eye contact 11. An eight second rest
with the judges. Smile and nod to them. is given when a boxer
appears hurt.
2. Always exercise sportsman-like conduct even if your opponent
calls your mother a name. Your opponent wants you to display
bad sportsmanship for his advantage. 12. When an opponent
is knocked down,
3. Never, EVER showboat, such as talking to your opponent, shuffling proceed to the furthest
your feet or dropping your hands, etc. The judges do not like it neutral corner.
and will vote against you. Judges like and favor boxers who have
a classic style of keeping their hands up and moving gracefully.
13. Remember that points
4. If you have been assigned to the red corner, wear a predominantly are scored on boxing
red uniform. If you are boxing out of the blue corner, wear ability, not on the
predominantly blue. This will make you and your punches easier power of the punches.
for the judge to identify.

14
PROPER EQUIPMENT FOR AMATEUR BOXING
Generally speaking, it is more economical in the long simpler and quicker for a coach to put on the athlete.
run to buy the best equipment that will provide both Someone with a lot of boxers or a limited number of
safety and durability. Compare products and talk to sparring gloves should consider this time saver. The
other boxers and coaches before you spend your other design differences are just a matter of preference.
money. An intelligent coach will always recommend
Ringside.

TRAINING GLOVES
1. BAG GLOVES: It is important that the gloves you
use to hit the bags or work punch mitts will provide
you with optimal protection for your hands.
They should also be comparable in weight to the
gloves that you compete in. That way you will
condition your arms to handle the weight of
competition gloves.
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
FROM RINGSIDE
Ultimate Classic Training Gloves (lace or elastic)
Safety Training Gloves (lace or elastic)
International Style Training Gloves (lace or elastic)
Heavy-Hitter Gloves
Contender Training Gloves (lace or elastic)
Junior Safety Training Gloves

TRAINING HEADGEAR
This is a VITAL piece of personal equipment! The entire
purpose of the headgear is to protect that fragile little
computer that sits on your shoulders. Be sure that you
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT get the most protective headgear you possible can.
FROM RINGSIDE There are several brands and designs on the market,
Ultimate Bag Gloves—Super Bag Gloves—Power Bag so be sure to try to find the best protection, visibility
Gloves—Contender Super Bag Gloves and fit for you. The best headgear is constructed of
leather. The headgear should fit snug so that it doesn’t
shift on your head
2. SPARRING GLOVES: Sparring Gloves come in during your workout.
many different sizes and designs. The sizes usually It should also be
range from 14 oz. to 18 oz. The heavier gloves designed for good
will naturally provide a greater level of protection, visibility without
and at the same time will force the arms to work compromising
harder because of the added weight. The different protection.
designs are basically divided into two distinct
groups—lace-up and elastic. This difference RECOMMENDED
refers to the way the glove is put on the boxer. EQUIPMENT
The lace-up design is the traditional glove design Fightgear, Inc.
that requires someone to lace the glove and tie it 1 (800) 684-0544
on the boxer. The elastic wrist design is much

15
GYM EQUIPMENT
The ideal combination of equipment that you need for
your gym will depend on your own specific program,
but we will try to give you a general idea of the basics
found in most gyms. There are large assortments of
different bags on the market today, and it can be
confusing. Try to stick to the basics in the beginning,
and then you can look to specialized bags as you
identify your individual training needs.
HEAVYBAGS
You can find many different heavybags in an assort-
ment of weights, sizes and materials. Try to remember
that they all do the same job. The idea that buying
quality is best applies here just as it did with the
personal gear. Make sure that you get a bag that will
hold up to your workout
needs. Most gyms use
canvas heavybags because
they are less expensive. A
good canvas heavybag is
usually tough enough for
the normal workout. Many
of the bigger (or better
funded) gyms use leather
heavybags. The leather bag
represents a larger initial
investment, but in the long
run it will last much longer.
It is also possible to get
heavybags from Ringside
that are custom filled to
your preference. You can
get them with the regular
firm fill or with a soft fill that
provides a two-inch foam
liner in the bag to reduce
wear and tear on your
hands. Again, this is a
matter of preference. You
can also custom order bags
to different weights. In
addition, heavybags can be
ordered unfilled so that you can save money and fill
the bag to your own specifications.
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
FROM RINGSIDE
Canvas Heavybag—Leather Heavybag—Powerhide
Heavybag—Water Bags—Headhunter Bag
Free Standing Heavybag
DOUBLE END BAGS
This bag is great for developing hand/eye coordination,
hand speed, combinations, and accuracy. Because
the bag bounces back when you hit it, you can also
practice your defensive techniques with this bag.
All in all, this is probably one
of the most effective teaching
tools in any gym. Here again,
there are a variety of sizes
and shapes available to cater
to your workout. The smaller
double end bags are faster
and more difficult to hit, so
start out with the larger one.
Even after your athletes
graduate to the smaller bags,
they will still get a great
workout on the original
bag.
If you aren’t able to drill into
your floor to mount a double
end bag, Ringside has a
great product that you can
use to anchor the bottom of
the bag. It’s called “The Rock”. It provides a very solid,
stable mount for your double end bag without having
to be mounted to anything.
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
FROM RINGSIDE
Double End Bag—Double Double End Bag—Filled
Double End Bag
SPEED BAGS
1. Speed Bags: Here again, there are a large variety
of brands and sizes available so you
will need to decide on the one that
is best for you. The smaller the
bag, the faster it moves, so you
will want to start out with a larger
bag and then as you get the
hang of it, you can go to a
smaller size.
RECOMMENDED
EQUIPMENT FROM
RINGSIDE
X-Small Speed Bag (5”x8”)
Small Speed Bag (6”x9”)
Medium Speed Bag (7”x10”)
Large Speed Bag (7”x11”)
16
2. Speed Bag Swivels: The selection of swivels
on the market provide for many different specific needs
and jobs. Some are designed for speed while others
are made to change bags or platforms easier. Try to
find the best design for you that will provide for speed,
durability and proper action.
techniques and conditioning. They should have a thick,
foam padded target area with a secure glove on the
back to provide stability. It is also important that they
be long enough to protect the wrist.

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
FROM RINGSIDE
Pro-Swivel—Super Swivel—Traditional Pro-Swivel

3. Speed Bag Platforms: The most important feature

of a speed bag platform is stability. Make sure that you
have a stable wall to mount it on. Because there is
a lot of vibration that occurs during the normal use of
this piece of equipment, it is a good idea to check
your platform often for loose nuts and bolts. Another RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
important feature of a good platform is the ability to FROM RINGSIDE
adjust the height easily. This is very important if you Traditional Punch Mitts—Panther Punch Mitts—Ultra
have a gym with a large number of boxers. Light Punch Mitts—Air Mitts

COACH SPAR MITTS

We discussed the advantages of Coach Spar Mitts for
your workout. The added option of teaching defense
makes these mitts a real plus for your gym.

SUPER BODY PROTECTOR

This piece of equipment is very helpful for teaching
body punching without the coach suffering the
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT consequences. This product gives your athlete the
FROM RINGSIDE ability to actually throw body punches at the body. The
Professional Model Speed Bag Platform use of the Heavy Hitter Pad will help protect you from
Middleweight Model Speed Bag Platform even the biggest punches.
Economical Model Speed Bag Platform
Ultimate Classic Speed Bag Platform
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
PUNCH MITTS Some additional equipment that you will find very
helpful includes the Maize Ball for learning to slip
As we mentioned in an earlier section of the manual, punches, the Slip Stick for mobility and defense, and
punch mitts are a very effective and necessary tool the Heavybag Attachment for more punching options.
for any gym. They are used to work on offensive There are many more great tools that are all explained
in detail in our catalog.
17
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
FROM RINGSIDE
WIPSS Jaw Joint Protector—Super Guard
The Shock Doctor—Black Beauty
Double Guard—Single Guard

GROIN PROTECTOR
HANDWRAPS
The “cup” is another vital
This is probably the most important piece of equipment piece of equipment. Many
any boxer ever uses. The number one health reason styles and designs provide
that a boxer quits boxing is a hand injury. As indicated a large variety of personal
earlier, there are 26 small, delicate bones in every protection needs. Some
human hand, and they take a huge amount of impact of the larger designs not
during every workout. Handwraps are the first line of only protect the groin
defense against injury. There are several styles available. and the lower abdomen,
Some are slightly elastic. Others are for smaller hands. but also the hips and
Your personal needs will determine what works best upper abdomen. Ringside
for you. also offers specific protectors
for women. The Female Groin-
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT Abdominal Protector provides
FROM RINGSIDE additional coverage for women’s hips and kidneys.
Classic Handwraps—Ultimate Handwraps There are also chest protectors that aid in the defense
Mexican Handwraps—Junior Handwraps against chest blows and help protect the sternum.

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
FROM RINGSIDE
Ultimate Classic No Foul Protector—No Foul
Protector—Groin Abdominal Protector—Mexican Style
No Foul Protector—Female No Foul Protector

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
As you become more
proficient in this sport, you
will probably want to expand
MOUTHPIECES on your personal gear as well
as your competition gear.
Also very important to the safety of the boxer is a Things like shoes, trunks,
properly fitted and protective mouthpiece. The competition headgear and
assortment of mouthpieces available today is robes are some of the things
overwhelming, so don’t rush into a mouthpiece you may consider as you
purchase until you are sure it provides the protection progress. Ringside offers a
you need. You may want to consult your dentist for complete line of personal
some advice. Talking to more experienced boxers can equipment in our latest
give you some good input on the subject, too. catalog.

18
HOW TO MOTIVATE YOUR BOXERS THE REAL
Make club T-shirts available for all members to “SCHOOL OF HARD KNOCKS”
purchase. It creates pride and is good advertising
for the program. Set up a program Ringside offers an extensive library of
in which your boxers receive a free club jacket educational video programs for
or warm-up after participating in a required coaches and boxers.
number of bouts—ten to fifteen is a good number
to strive for. RINGSIDE
TRAINING
Boxers, like any other athletes, need goals and INSTRUCTIONAL
VIDEOS
objectives to aim for, so consequently it is
necessary to set up a schedule of matches for Beginning with the
your competitive boxers to motivate them to stay first tape in the
in shape. How long would football players series, Ringside
practice if there were no games scheduled? covers the basics
and moves into
Another good idea, especially if you have a good size team, is to support advances boxing
techniques.
several local charities such as Muscular Dystrophy, March of Dimes, Etc.
It is good for your boxers to appreciate the fact that there are many who This is a multi-tape
are less fortunate and need help. It is also great public relations for the series that will help anyone interested
club. Have your team run collectively in some benefit 10K races all wearing in the fight game to gain a good
team T-shirts and running as a group. foundation and full understanding of
the principles of boxing. #RTV
All of these activities are geared to instill in your boxers the fact that through
work, persistence, diligence and pride, all goals and objectives can be JOHN BROWN’S RINGSIDE
attained—a very important lesson to learn. TRAINING SERIES

John Brown, President of

ESTABLISHED BOXING PROGRAMS Ringside, draws on over
40 years of experience
Fortunately there are many and their love of the sport which are in the sport to share
programs in this country that allow the backbone of the program. numerous,
boxer participation at many cutting-edge
different levels. The Silver Gloves Program is the approaches to
premiere event for 10-15 year-old training.
The national governing body of boxers. It is a superlative program Expanding
amateur boxing is USA Boxing focused on developing young talent. on traditional
which is responsible for the rules routines and
and regulations of the sport. USA The following is a list of programs entirely new techniques, the John
Boxing sponsors the annual with people to contact in reference Brown/Ringside Training Series is
National Boxing Championships, to these and other amateur boxing undoubtedly the most innovative
National Junior Olympics, National programs. boxing instruction program in the
Sports Festival, Olympic and Pan- industry. Each of the 10 John Brown
Ringside Training videos concentrates
American Game Trials and USA BOXING on one aspect of training that is
Operation Gold and offers 1750 East Boulder Street essential to building a complete boxer.
scholarships to deserving boxers. Colorado Springs, Colorado 80909
Phone: 719-578-4506
USA Boxing is headquartered at ALSO AVAILABLE FROM RINGSIDE
ARE THESE AND OTHER
the Olympic Training Center in NATIONAL JUNIOR OUTSTANDING TITLES:
Colorado Springs and has a staff OLYMPICS
of professionals that are supported Sonny Duncan 719-520-6507 1. Great Trainers Video Series
by a large national network of 2. Weight Training for the Boxer
volunteers. The country is divided NATIONAL SILVER GLOVES 3. Ringside Conditioning Video
into 18 regions, each with a Ray Rodgers 501-225-7998
chairman and are further dissected Call 1-877-4-BOXING or go online at
www.ringside.com to order or request
into 60 associations each also with NATIONAL GOLDEN GLOVES a 180-page catalog full of boxing-
a chairman. It is these volunteers Jim Beasley 316-663-6942 related instructional videos and books.

19
If you’ve ever wondered…
“HOW TO START AND RUN A BOXING GYM”
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