Boxing Equipment Purchasing Tips

Getting The Best Boxing Equipment

Those that are considering taking up the "Sweet Science" of boxing for health, fitness, self-defence, or good, old fashioned competition are making a wise choice. Boxing has much to offer on many levels. Best of all, it is a fairly easy sport to get involved with since there is not much equipment needed to train. Better yet, a lot of the equipment can be procured at fairly low prices. For those curious about what kind of equipment to purchase, here is a rundown:

Boxing Gloves: You need a good pair of leather boxing gloves produced by a legitimate provider of pro and amateur gloves. Don't purchase low quality £15 gloves. Look to buy £40 - £60 gloves that are designed for serious training. Also, if you are over 170lbs you will want 160z gloves. If you are under 170lbs, you probably will want 14oz gloves although 16oz is fine as well.

Bag Gloves: These are very light gloves designed for hitting the heavy bag. Some trainers frown on them but they are worth purchasing.

Hand Wraps: Hand wraps keep the knuckles and the wrists protected when hitting. Injuries are greatly reduced when your hands are wrapped which is why wraps are so highly recommended.

Heavy Bags: Heavy bags are a must when looking to build explosive power in punches as well as to develop endurance. Heavy bags can range in weight and most gyms will use a 70lb to 100lb bag. There are lighter bags in the 40lb range and these bags are commonly employed for working the jab.

The Speed Bag: The venerable speed bag has lost some of it popularity in recent years but it is still an excellent device for developing hand/eye coordination and making sure you do not drop your hands too low. It is also a decent piece of equipment for building up the muscles in the arm and enhancing the endurance of said muscles.

A Jump Rope: If you are not working out with a jump rope, you are going to have a hard time being a decent boxer. Not only does a jump rope help you burn off fat and boost your stamina, jumping rope allows you to stay light on your feet. Being light on your feet is a must if you want to spar effectively. Boxing is all about footwork and jumping rope help you develop such footwork.

Safety equipment is also a must. If you do not have the right safety equipment in place when you are sparring, you run the risk of injury. Here are the three most important pieces of equipment you will need when you are "throwing a few rounds."

Groin Protector: Low blows do accidentally happen and a quality groin protector will reverse any injury that might occur as the result of errant impact.

Mouth Piece: Not only does a mouth piece protect your teeth, it protects your entire jaw. As such to wear a mouth piece when you train is a must.

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