How To Start Light Sparring in Boxing

By: Sean Taylor

Break Studios Contributing Writer

With boxing being such a popular sport, many people want to know how to start light sparring in boxing. For a person that has never boxed or sparred, it is a very unique experience. There is not much in any other sport that is similar to the physicality in even light sparring in boxing. Another side to it, however, is the potential for injury. Someone who has never been punched in the face may need an adjustment period. If you have never been hit before, you do not know how you are going to react to it. Let's talk about some of the things a person can do to start light sparring in boxing.

  1. It is good to get two people that are relatively the same size, strength and ability to spar. It can be difficult to find people who are equal in sparring; if one of them has not sparred before that can make it difficult to know what level he will be at. The main thing is to not put a beginner in against a very seasoned boxer with great strength and skills. Also, do not put a lightweight in against a heavyweight.
  2. It is important to wear proper safety gear when learning how to start light sparring in boxing. A mouthpiece and headgear are two great ideas to keep everyone who is participating in the light sparring safe.
  3. There is no physical activity that can duplicate the strain that even light sparring puts on the body. It is important to make sure not to overextend the body when light sparring in boxing.
  4. Before starting light sparring in boxing, it is important to warm up. That means get your muscles warm and ready to engage in strenuous activity. This can be done by shadowboxing, a very popular way to warm up for boxers. Bouncing on the balls of your feet and practicing throwing punches by oneself is a great way to warm up.

For someone interested in boxing, engaging in light sparring is a great way to gauge your ability. Of course, the most important thing to remember when light sparring in boxing is safety. It is necessary to have experts around who have experience with sparring and know what to expect of the situation.

Posted on: May. 01, 2010