ATTENTION TO DETAIL:

Boxing starts from the ground up. Often times simple adjustments made to foot placement or movement is all that is necessary to correct an error in form. However, there are instances when more advanced and delicate corrections are necessary. A good trainer will be able to pinpoint and identify flaws in technique and mechanics of all degrees quickly and give precise yet clear instruction to correct them.

SAFETY:

Perhaps the most important aspect of being a good trainer is safety. Boxing tends to be associated with injuries due to the violent nature of competitive boxing; nevertheless, boxing for fitness can be associated with injuries to the knuckles, wrists, elbows, and back.

For a beginner boxer, safety begins and ends with the trainer. Wrists and knuckle injuries can be avoided by a secure hand wrap and instruction to keep a tight fist when throwing punches; and injuries to the elbows and back can be minimized by your attention to detail in teaching the sweet science as well as a thorough warm up.  Another key component to safety is communication, which we will discuss below.

ORGANIZATION AND PREPARATION:

“Failing to prepare, is preparing to fail.” 

A good instructor is always prepared for a session. Preparation includes programming your client, ensuring that they are progressing appropriately. Without preparation trainers may have the tendency to progress their boxers too quickly, leading to a lack of understanding of fundamentals, and often leading to injury or frustration from the boxer. Organization and preparation will also guarantee you present as knowledgeable and professional to the client.

COMMUNICATION:

As mentioned before, communication is vital for ensuring safety. One of the first and foremost things to establish when teaching boxing is open communication and to build trust, without it there is an increased likelihood of injury and frustration. Requesting feedback from your boxer is not only smart, but essential. Knowing how your client is feeling, what they’re thinking, their learning style, and how they process  information will help communicate more effectively with each individual.

ENERGY:

Your attitude and energy will be what your boxer remembers most! For the majority of people, boxing can be incredibly intimidating to try due to the nature of the sport and is a new experience for them. Remember to give positive reinforcement and to smile! Positive energy is also highly effective in creating enhanced performance and results from your client.