Travelling And Boxing

Boxing is a sport that demands a lot of travelling especially if you are a highly ranked player who is internationally recognized. You have to be present in different nations during a calendar year. However, the same applies if you are not a boxer but a big fan of boxing who is not satisfied with watching fights online or on TV but wish to see catch the drama in real life. 2018 was a year I dedicated to boxing. I decided to pick 5 countries where boxing is most popular and visited them all just to witness the thrill of live matches. Here are they and the reasons why I chose them for traveling.

USA

Researchers claim that boxing is losing its grip on the population in USA but it cannot be expected that it will get rid of its No. 1 ranking as far as heavyweight championships are concerned. In this nation, boxing signifies steadiness and power. The boxer’s fortitude and his knack of overcoming overpowering odds is now a loved theme in popular movies of USA. The soundtrack for films like Rocky are perpetually associated with the topic of inspiration and persistence. If you aren’t too different, listening to “Eye of the tiger” or seeing Rocky 4 will provoke you to check out boxing gear in the nearby stores as you will be really pumped up for serious action.

Mexico

Most think that soccer is Mexico’s most famous sport but it is boxing that rules its people. Mexico is responsible for producing more than 200 champions. In the 1930s, Mexico had its first golden era of boxing. Throughout the 60s, boxers from Mexico managed to get some matches around the globe. In the 80s, this sport was very famous in Mexico due to Julio Cesar Chavez who was a sensation. There was a time when he had a winning streak of 87 fights.

UK

UK is the birthplace of modern boxing. Thus, it is not surprising that the sport is popular in this nation. Here, arenas become sell outs quickly as huge groups of passionate fans arrive for supporting their heroes. For instance, in 2016, 02 Arena managed to sell out in eleven minutes for a match between Kell Brook and Gennady Golovkin. In UK, big boxing contests are a source of major excitement. Fans are devoted and support from the heart. This sport is indeed a thriving business with no signs of fading. This is apparent from not just stadium attendances but also television viewership stats. BoxNation is a channel showing matches not just in UK but from across the world. No wonder the United Kingdom is responsible for coming up with 14 world titleholders.

Japan

Japan is not a surprising inclusion in my trip at all. In 1921, Japan had its first boxing gym. 31 years later, Yoshio Shirai became the first world champion from this country. Since then, Japan has managed to produce 40 world champs. 1960-80 is known as Japan’s golden era in boxing. In the 70s, Japan simultaneously had 5 world champs. Boxing is famous in its media too. Boxing is linked with societal status. Multiple TV channels based in Tokyo show monthly programs on boxing. Most ballots are between high-caliber Japanese boxers. The newspapers in Japan do feature boxing results in sports section – a lot of Japanese magazines specialize in boxing as well.

Cuba

Cuban has managed to build a repute for great boxers on a global level. Since it entered the boxing scenario in 70s, it has been able to attain above 100 medals in Olympics and amateur competitions of boxing. Eligio Sardinias Montalbo was the first Cuban champion in boxing. During the 1960s, Fidel Castro ended up banning all professional sports. Many boxers and their respective managers decided to flee Cuba to live in places where they would practice boxing and earn from it as well. However, this did not totally kill boxing scene in Cuba. Instead, while working with Soviet Union, Cuba initiated a boxing program for amateurs. The aim was producing boxers not driven by financial incentives but by their love for boxing, love for Cuba and, most importantly, love for human glory. These boxers endured personal sacrifices while retaining calmness and self-respect.

This initiative turned out to be an incomparable success story. Teófilo Stevenson and Felix Savon both won 3 Olympic gold medals. With boxing, it became possible for economically deprived Cuban families to have members traveling abroad. With boxing, they earned respectable livelihood which was returned to their families to help them at home. Thus, today, even 12 year old children commence training in boxing. This has generated love for this otherwise controversial sport throughout Cuba which has stood the test of time and, most probably, will continue like this in the future.

Why Muhammad Ali Is Considered To Be The Greatest Boxer

I am writing today about the “The Greatest” ever lived. His name was Cassius Marcellus Clay. If that does not sound familiar to you, you might know him by the name Muhammad Ali. He is the best boxer that ever lived and arguably one of the most influential people of the 20th century. He was a boxer and an activist and a hostage negotiator. He fought inside the ring and out.

Muhammad Ali was born in Louisville, Kentucky on January 17, 1942. He started fighting at the age of 12 when somebody stole his bicycle. His older cousin taught him how to fight to protect himself and that is when his interest in boxing started. He began training as an amateur boxer and at age 18 he won a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1969 Summer Olympics. Later that year he turned professional. He made his professional debut on October 29th 1960 were he won after 6 rounds to Tunney Hunsaker. The boxers he defeated included Tony Esperti, Doug Jones and Archie Moore. At age 22 he won the heavyweight title from Sonny Liston. However, not all of his fights were without trials. He was knocked down by Sonny Banks and Henry Cooper. During the fight with Henry Cooper he was floored by a left hook and the end of round 4 but was only saved by the bell. He then proceeded to win in the 5th round which he had predicted. He actually wrote the prediction on a piece of paper read it after the fight.

Some of the more well known fights were the Rumble in the Jungle which was a historic fight held in the now Dominican Republic of Congo. He fought against the world heavyweight champion George Foreman. Ali won by a knockout flooring Foreman just before the 8th round. This was the greatest fight of the 20th century. It was attended by 60,000 people and viewed on TV by 50 million.

Another famous fight was the Thrilla in Manila. He fought Joe Frazier at the Phillippine Coliseum in Quezon City. Ali won by a technical knockout. A technical knockout also known as a TKO is when a referee or a doctor can no longer fight safely. The contest was named by Ali who likes to taunt his opponents with rhymes. The full version is “A killa and a thrilla and a chilla when I get that Gorilla in Manila”. Some of his more famous rhymes and quotes include: “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee his hands can’t hit what his eyes can’t see. Now you see me, now you don’t George thinks he sees me but I know he won’t”. “Don’t count the days make the days count”. “I should be a postage stamp that’s the only way I’ll ever get licked”. “If they can make penicillin out of moldy bread they can sure make something out of you”.

Muhhamad converted to Islam in 1961, and changed his name to Muhhamad Ali.

Muhhamad was quoted saying “Cassius Clay is my slave name.” and “I am America. I am the part you wont recognize. But get used to me. Black, confident, cocky; my name, not yours; my religion, not yours; my goals, my own; get used to me.” Ali said he heard about Islam when he was fighting in the Golden Gloves Tournament, in 1959, and he attended his first Nation of Islam meeting in 1961. However, he hid his involvement from the public, until he was sighted with Malcolm X, Muhhamads mentor.

Aligning himself with the Nation of Islam, its leader Elijah Muhhamad, and a narrative that labled the white race as the perpatraitor of genocide against African Americans made Ali a target of public opposition. Ali had gone on the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in 1972 which inspired him to have a greater grasp on spiritual awakening. In 1977, he said after he retired, he would dedicate the rest of his life to helping people find god.

After the September 11 attacks, he stated that Islam was a religion of peace, and that the world shouldn’t have a negative view on all of Islam because of one group. He also stated that “We as Muslims have to stand up to those who use Islam to advance their own agenda.” and that “Political leaders should use their position to bring understanding about the religion of Islam, and clarify that these misguided murderers have perverted people’s views on what islam really is. In later life, Ali began to take an interest in Sufism, which he referenced in his autobiography, The Soul of a Butterfly.

According to Muhhamad, since Islam was a religion of peace, he could not go to war in vietnam, as it was against the teachings of the Qur’an. When Muhhamad was notified of his status as 1-A (Extremely eligible for combat), Ali declared that he would refuse to serve in the army and publicly considered himself a conscientious objector. He stated “ War is against the teachings of the Qur’an. I’m not trying to dodge the draft. We are not supposed to take part in no wars unless declared by Allah or The Messenger. We don’t take part in Christianwars or wars of any unbelievers” . On april 28, 1967, Ali appeared in houston for his scheduled induction into the U.S. Army, but refused to take oath and was arrested, and suspended from boxing in the united states. However, at his trial on June 20, 1967, the jury found Ali guilty after only 21 minutes for violating the Selective Service laws, by refusing to be drafted. However he remained free for several years following his trial, when on June 28, 1971, the Supreme Court overturned Ali’s conviction by a unanimous vote.

Before the first Iraq war Mohamud Ali personally rescued American hostages from Sadam Heusein. On August 2nd 1990 Sadam Hussein and his army invaded Kuwait. He took American hostages from the General Motors factory. The United Nations gave Saddam a deadline to get out of Kuwait and release the hostages, but he did not. He just scattered the hostages and used them as human shields. In October he released 4 women and children. That is when the greatest boxer of all time stepped in to intervene in the national ring. Ali was highly regarded in the Islamic world, especially when he changed his name to Muhammed. He traveled to Baghdad with the intent to get all the hostages released. Many back home thought this was just a publicity stunt and he was criticized because he could not speak clearly due to his Parkinson’s Disease. He had to use hand signals but he still managed to visit many locations in Baghdad and pray in the Mosques. Crowds flocked to him. During his trip he actually ran out of his Parkinson’s medication but stayed in the country until he could meet with the dictator. He was bed ridden for days at a time but refused to leave. An Irish hospital in Baghdad replenished his medication just days before Saddam agreed to meet with him. Ali sat with Saddam, and Saddam then agreed to release the hostages.

In 1984, Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which can be the result of head trauma and physical violence. His fight with parkinson’s led to a slow and steady decline in his health, And in 1998, Ali began working with Michael J Fox, who also had parkinson’s disease, and they worked on funding a cure for parkinson’s. In February of 2013, his brother said that he could no longer speak, but this rumor was later proved to be untrue. On June 2, 2016 Muhhamad was hospitalized for a respiratory illness. Although his condition was initially described as “fair”, it got worse, and he died the following morning from Septic Shock.

Conclusion

Muhhamad Ali was the greatest Boxer in the world, who’s philanthropic legacy and efforts to make a change will never be forgotten for his athleticism, sportsmanship, and his activism. He will forever be known as the “Greatest Ever.”

Improved Fitness Is Just The Beginning When You Take On Female Boxing

If you are looking to get back into shape or simply looking to improve your fitness levels, female boxing may be a surprisingly good alternative for you. While once considered to be too aggressive for most women, female boxing has surged in popularity with celebrities like Khloe Kardashian and Adriana Lima being strong public advocates for it.

The increasing popularity of boxing with women has blossomed as more women become aware that improved fitness is not the only benefit associated with boxing. There are a host of reasons to get involved in this ancient sport that can bring about a total female body transformation, but the key ones are :

  • A healthier heart. When it gets down to fundamentals this is what all exercise is about staying healthy for as long as possible. A proper boxing workout helps to exercise the heart by causing you to breathe heavier and for your lungs to pump oxygen around the body at a faster rate. This increased activity will help to build stronger heart muscles while reducing the risk of common heart related diseases like stroke and heart attack.
  • Better overall fitness levels. The anaerobic and aerobic nature of boxing helps to build fitness in two different ways. Anaerobic exercise is high intensity exercise that will build endurance while aerobic exercise Is a gentler form of exercise that will help in burning fat as well as helping to improve cardiovascular health. Boxing is said to be a mixture of 70% high intensity anaerobic exercise and 30% aerobic giving you the best of both worlds and building your overall fitness
  • It burns fat and calories. A typical boxing workout is likely to see you burn at least three hundred and fifty calories. A highly trained female boxer could burn as much as five hundred calories in a single session. The anaerobic nature of boxing will push your body to go beyond burning calories and help you to start burning fat.
  • Improve your overall strength levels. Boxing requires the whole body to repeat consistent movements throughout the boxing session. Consistent female boxing training sessions will help to build speed and endurance levels which will, in turn make you stronger.
  • It relieves mental and physical stress. Boxing activity serves two critical functions in this regard. It pumps endorphins throughout the body while reducing cortisol levels. Endorphins are the chemicals that create your body’s natural highs and cortisol is the chemical produced by stress.
  • Improve reflexes and hand-eye coordination. Specific boxing drills will speed up your reaction times that can be transferred to other activities
  • An improved posture -the boxing stance requires an upright stance. Consistent training will help you to improve your regular posture.
  • Improved body tone – boxing doesn’t build muscle but it certainly helps to tone muscle structure. There is no doubt the boxing is a workout for the whole body as you will just about use every muscle. Boxing will help to improve muscle tone in all the key areas, strengthening the core and toning arms, legs, back, chest and shoulders
  • Self-defence skills improve confidence. It’s a good feeling to know that you are capable of defending yourself if the need ever arises.
  • You can practice anywhere without going to any great expense. Boxing doesn’t require a lot of equipment. You can shadow box and practice your techniques by yourself or if you have a sparring partner all you need is some gloves.

If the prospect of getting into female boxing appeals to you then it may be time to seek out some female boxing training at your local PCYC. You might be surprised by what they have to offer.

Boxercise: What You Should Know?

Boxercise is a class in which you perform exercises inspired from the training boxers do for keeping themselves fit. Classes take place in different formats but a usual one involves skipping, shadow-boxing, kicking punchbags, hitting pads, press-ups, sit-ups and shuttle-runs. Most classes include men and women of every age and fitness standard. Since no session involves physical hitting of someone, it is fun, safe and challenging. This training caters everyone irrespective of shape, size and gender. Do not forget that every boxer must have begun his journey from zero. So you can also work your way up to the desired level of fitness. Attend classes thrice a week and you would become fit in 3 months only; if you do it twice a week, it will take half a year. Boxercise is a wonderful way to release your aggression. It calms you down as all the aggression is channelized and in control. Although it is devoid of physical contact, it makes you feel that you are in control of your body and have more confidence in protecting yourself if the need arises. Visit boxercise.co.uk for epic, useful and exciting boxercise workout programs.

Boxercise increases discipline. A lot of people don’t acknowledge that boxing training has a lot to do with discipline and is a very good way of increasing it in other walks of life like drinking or eating. If everyone takes up boxercise, we would live in a world which is much fitter and better mentally, emotionally and physically. It elevates your energy, focus and concentration. It stimulates the mind boosting self-belief. It is wonderful for overweight children as it builds self-esteem in youngsters who might have been bullied or been devoid of confidence. An important tip is do not gulp your water. Pro boxers sit down and drink water after every round. If you apply it in your training, you won’t have a stitch. Not everyone can float like a butterfly and sting like a bee. In fact, in boxing training, you don’t need to. Express yourself and be the best you can.

Boxercise appeared on the scene in the early 90s in UK. Now, there are innumerable classes of it being conducted nationwide. Sessions of boxercise (boxercise.co.uk) are in general taught by expert aerobic and fitness instructors with the content set to music. They are run from health clubs and leisure centres. A lot of local clubs now provide boxing style classes taught by pro boxers as well as coaches. Where these might be slightly hard-core, you have a more authentic experience. We don’t have any central body for such classes; thus, look online or elsewhere. Prices vary from 5 pounds for a single class to 75 pounds a month for unlimited classes with pro boxers. Every session includes a warm-up and cool-down besides many boxing skills and drills. It challenges your aerobic stamina with continuous moving exercises coupled with sharp short exercises like punch-balling which train one’s anaerobic energy systems. If you have not done any explosive short-burst activity in the past, you would be challenged.

The Boxercise organisation (boxercise.co.uk) provides manuals plus DVDs of personal training. For amateurs, Billy Blanks’ Tae-Bo DVD series combines boxing skills, martial arts and dance moves. It is very famous and accessible for people who are keen to experiment at home. There is no dedicated magazine for boxing training but if you aim to be familiar with the world of boxing when you practice your moves, you should read Boxing News. For inspirational stuff, read Workouts From Boxing’s Greatest Champs.

What about the gear to be used? Silk shorts or flashy robes are not needed but a pair of trainers is required along with shorts or leggings and a loose light top. If you train at a club, you might end up investing for a pair of boxing shoes (about 25 pounds) but gloves, skipping ropes and punchbags are in general supplied. If you want to do training at home, sugarrays.co.uk has a selection of equipment and boxing clothing whereas totallyfitness.co.uk has a collection of skipping ropes and fitness accessories including Reebok gloves (30 pounds) and punchbags (99 pounds). Women would require a fine support bra. boobydoo.co.uk has a variety of functional as well as flattering styles. Grant protection to your hands with strapping available in good sports shops.

Are there only pros of it or is there any downside to boxercise as well? Yes just like any other thing in this world, it has its own set of cons. Firstly, it is addictive. Instructors commonly report cases of over-indulgence in training by boxing lovers as they enjoy it too much; thus, keep that in mind and try building up slowly and gradually. 3 or 4 times per week is quite sufficient. Secondly, you can have sore knuckles. Hand injuries are extremely common in boxing as there are many small bones. Knuckles should be wrapped up during punchbagging to prevent bruising or scraping. Thirdly, shin splints is a common injury in which muscles on the front of your leg are inflamed or injured as a result of skipping. Get nice shin supports from sports shops and wear nice trainers. Fourthly, you must protect your thumbs which are quite vulnerable to dislocation or strains. Learn how to strap in an effective manner and if you wear gloves, do tuck the thumbs in.

Finally, what are the positive aspects of boxercise? It increases mental agility. Sports research has shown that training techniques applied by boxers while using punchbags or sparring result in higher skills of decision making. It betters hand- eye coordination on both sides of your body. Unlike tennis and golf, your body is improved equally on right and left sides which lessens postural disalignment. Boxercise increases stamina. Studies published in Indian Journal of Medicine state that boxing is 70-80% anaerobic and 20-30% aerobic. Its training enhances stamina in lungs and heart. It increases core strength. For taking a punch and holding your balance, abdominals should be toned and powerful; strong core stability reduces the possibility of back pain and betters your posture. It makes your muscles stronger. Boxercise elevates muscle strength utilized in daily activities and ‘fast twitch’ muscle fibres needed for short explosive movements.

Boxing: The Pros And Cons

Boxing is a fighting sport which has been popular since its inception. According to Arnold and Holland, the earliest form of boxing can be traced to the ancient Olympics while the modern form of boxing started in England in the year 1681 (Perkins et al. 9). This sport requires offensive and defensive strategies to win against an opponent. Over time, boxing rules were also improved to promote safety. Similar to other sports, boxing has two levels: amateur and professional boxing. Amateur and professional boxing differ in terms of safety gear and equipment (Heilbronner et al. 11). This research paper explored existing evidence on the benefits and negative effects of boxing in general.

One of the benefits of boxing would be the improvement of an individual’s overall physique. Similar to other sports, boxing results to an enhanced physique due to demanding physical training. Also, healthy dietary habits are strictly enforced which results to this overall improvement. Blonstein found that after two years of boxing training, an average increase of two inches in height and seven pounds in weight were observed among boys (207).

Boxing can also help people suffering from obesity. In a study conducted by Cheema et al., boxing training was used in a high-intensity level training program to test its effectiveness against obesity. Participants were subjected to twelve weeks of either boxing training or brisk walking. It was found that boxing training was able to lower body fat percentage significantly. Waist circumference, body mass, and body mass index were all significantly decreased after the training. Overall, boxing training was found to be more effective in lowering body fat than brisk walking alone. Although this study was able to demonstrate an important benefit of boxing, the researchers did not include a control group, group without exercise, and the study has a small sample size; this are essential since it can help remove doubts on the accuracy of the results, as well as bias in results. (1-3, 5-6). In a similar trend, Shultz et al. also revealed lower visceral fat thickness in participants after boxing training in a separate study (751, 753). According to Blonstein, psychological benefits can also be obtained from boxing. Boys who undergo boxing training become more self-confident and well-disciplined. Introverted boys become extroverted due to a boost in self-esteem (207). Furthermore, according to DiDomenico, boxing can positively build an individual’s traits and character (Perkins et al. 16). Boxing also helps people channel aggression into a productive activity. Blonstein argued that aggression is natural and instinctive, thus it should not be repressed or ignored. Boxing can therefore be used as strategy to release emotional build-up, including aggression (207). Some research studies have also explored the potential of boxing training as part of the therapy for patients with Parkinson’s disease. Combs subjected Parkinson’s patients, aged 51-77 years old, to boxing training sessions for 36 weeks. Mobility tests were conducted every 4 weeks. It was found that the patients demonstrated improvements in gait and mobility as early as the 12th week of boxing training. Patients with mild Parkinsons also improved more quickly than individuals with moderate and severe Parkinson’s, suggesting that the latter can still significantly improve with longer durations of boxing sessions. This study demonstrated that boxing is a promising supplement to the currently existing treatments and therapies for Parkinsons disease (132-141).

Overall, all of these benefits have led to the rising trend of including non-contact boxing in physical fitness training. The positive effects derived from research studies discussed above are typically achieved in non-contact boxing. In an actual boxing sport competition, contact boxing, physical injuries are quite common. Bledsoe et al. found that for professional boxing matches that occurred in Nevada (September 2001 to March 2003), 51% of injuries are facial lacerations. Other injuries include hand injury (17%), eye injury (14%), and nose injury (5%) (994). Available research studies are mostly focused on long-term effects of boxing-related injuries.

Traumatic brain injury is the primary cause of death in sport-related injuries (“Sports-related Head Injury”). Serious brain injury starts with head trauma. Over the years, research studies found that increased exposure to boxing-related head trauma is highly associated with lower volumes of certain brain regions (Bernick and Banks 3-4). This result suggests that head trauma (resulting from boxing) have the capacity to impair the normal function and integrity of the brain. Blonstein and Clarke described a case wherein a boxer suffered from headaches and amnesia after a boxing match, even without a knock-out. There was also a case wherein the boxer fell unconscious briefly during the match and became forgetful as the day progressed (363).

Through improvements in research, researchers were able to determine specific characteristics of nervous system-related injuries due to boxing. Heilbronner et al. discussed boxing-related neurological injuries; there are currently three types: acute neurologic injury, persistent groggy state, post-concussion syndrome, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (also referred to as CTE, punch-drunk syndrome, chronic traumatic brain injury [CTBI], or dementia pugilistica). Acute neurologic injury is the loss of consciousness typically resulting from knock-outs during the match. Individuals with ost-concussion syndrome complain of headaches, dizziness and memory problems during or after the match. Chronic exposure to head or cerebral trauma commonly causes CTE. An individual may experience impairment in speech, motor skills, cognition; and changes in behavior (12-13). Additionally, some boxers may be at higher risk for CTE due to apolipoprotein E (APOE). APOE-e4 is highly associated with Alzheimer’s disease and is considered as its genetic risk factor according to the study of Roses et al. (qtd in. Heilbronner et al. 13).

The study of Neselius et al. further supported the existence of adverse effects of head trauma in Olympic boxing. Changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers (which has deviated from the normal levels) suggest minor nervous system injuries. Repeated head trauma can therefore result to CTE since it was observed that persistent head trauma prevents CSF biomarkers from returning to normal levels (1, 7). In a similar study, Zetterberg et al. discovered high levels of neuronal and axonal injury (also measured using biomarkers for neuronal injury) in amateur boxers even after three months of rest. Boxers who received more blows to the head showed higher neuronal injury compared to other boxers who had lower hits (1277) In addition, CTE was observed to induce pituitary damage in retired amateur boxers. The researchers therefore subjected the boxers to growth hormone replacement therapy for six months and found that GH therapy can improve growth hormone level but cannot restore it to normal level (Tanriverdi et al. 111-113).

Unfortunately, in addition to serious injuries, boxers are highly susceptible to the risk of death. Researchers were able to record 923 deaths of professional boxers and 293 amateur boxers from 1890 to 2007. Ninety-one percent were deaths from boxing competitions. Acute subdural hematoma is the most common cause of death (Perkins et al. 11). Researchers emphasized that the severity of injuries may differ between amateur and professional boxing. This may be due to the fact that amateur boxing generally makes use of safety gear and also have few rounds compared to the professional level (Heilbronner et al. 13; Jordan 179).

Works Cited

  1. Arnold, Peter. History of boxing. Hamlyn, 1985.
  2. Bernick, Charles, and Sarah Banks. ‘What boxing tells us about repetitive head trauma and the brain.’ Alzheimer’s research & therapy 5.3 (2013): 23.
  3. Bledsoe, Gregory H., Guohua Li, and Fred Levy. ‘Injury risk in professional boxing.’ Southern medical journal 98.10 (2005): 994-999.
  4. Blonstein, J. L. ‘The benefits of amateur boxing.’ British journal of sports medicine 8.4 (1974): 207.
  5. Blonstein, J. L., and Edwin Clarke. ‘Further observations on the medical aspects of amateur boxing.’ British medical journal 1.5015 (1957): 362.
  6. Cheema, Birinder S., et al. ‘The feasibility and effectiveness of high-intensity boxing training versus moderate-intensity brisk walking in adults with abdominal obesity: a pilot study.’ BMC sports science, medicine and rehabilitation 7.1 (2015): 3.
  7. Combs, Stephanie A., et al. ‘Boxing training for patients with Parkinson disease: a case series.’ Physical therapy 91.1 (2011): 132-142.
  8. DiDomenico, T. Why Boxing?, in Family Times: The Parenting Guide of Central New York. 2012: New York USA.
  9. Heilbronner, Robert L., et al. ‘Neuropsychological consequences of boxing and recommendations to improve safety: a National Academy of Neuropsychology education paper.’ Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology 24.1 (2009): 11-19.
  10. Holland, G. History of London Boxing BBC. 2008, http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/content/articles/2007/11/13/early_boxing_history_feature.shtml
  11. Jordan, Barry D. ‘Chronic traumatic brain injury associated with boxing.’ Seminars in neurology. Vol. 20. No. 02. Copyright© 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.:+ 1 (212) 584-4662, 2000.
  12. Neselius, Sanna, et al. ‘CSF-biomarkers in Olympic boxing: diagnosis and effects of repetitive head trauma.’ PloS one 7.4 (2012): e33606.
  13. Perkins, Paul, et al. ‘The Boxing Conundrum: Is there a place for a new variant of the sport.’ Journal of Research in Humanities and Social Science 2.9 (2014): 9-25.
  14. Roses, A. D., et al. ‘Morphological, Biochemical, and Genetic Support for an Apolipoprotein E Effect on Microtubular Metabolism a.’ Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences777.1 (1996): 146-157.
  15. Shultz, Sarah P., et al. ‘A boxing-oriented exercise intervention for obese adolescent males: findings from a pilot study.’ Journal of sports science & medicine 13.4 (2014): 751.
  16. “Sports-related Head Injury.” American Association of Neurological Surgeons, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, n.d., https://www.aans.org/en/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Sports-related-Head-Injury.
  17. Tanriverdi, Fatih, et al. ‘Hypopituitarism due to sports related head trauma and the effects of growth hormone replacement in retired amateur boxers.’ Pituitary 13.2 (2010): 111-114.
  18. Zetterberg, Henrik, et al. ‘Neurochemical aftermath of amateur boxing.’ Archives of neurology 63.9 (2006): 1277-1280.

Boxing: Raging Bull And Cinderella Man – An Analysis Of Two Renowned Sports Films

The boxer, as portrayed in film, embodies the virile working-class hero who seeks unrelenting power and control at the expense of his personal well-being and often his relationships with others. During his struggle for social acceptance and dominance, his body—viciously wounded—is commoditized as a disposable byproduct of the sport. He is faced with balancing his competitive individualism and title-seeking quest with self-sacrifice for the common good. Within the boxing ring, he stands alone feeling isolated, exposed, and embattled. However, the utter brutality and hardship associated with boxing is borne not only by the pugilist, but also by those around him. He struggles with both public and private matters that motivate him to become a prizefighter. Boxing films are not merely about one’s rise and fall, but about “exposing the body in order to reveal the fundamental struggles of the soul” (Grindon, 2011). In addition to navigating these internal conflicts, he commonly experiences a masculinity crisis involving his romantic affairs with women. The masculine traits of a boxer entice him to remain loyal to the manly ethos of his profession. On the other hand, this often comes at the expense of successfully courting a woman. Thus, the two are constantly at odds from beginning to end. These are merely a few ways in which the pugilist grapples with his identity issues and struggles for acceptance.

Raging Bull

As one of Hollywood’s most admired sports films, Martin Scorsese’s Raging Bull (1980) explores the troubled life of a boxer and batterer whose self-destructive tendencies ruin his body and alienate those closest to him. Jake LaMotta—a volatile, beastly personality both in and out of the ring—is a repugnant and unlikeable protagonist whose violent nature appears throughout every facet of his personal and professional life. He prefers to use physical action to protect his insecurities and shortcomings as a boxer, husband, father, and brother. As a result of his emotional immaturity, LaMotta channels his internal anger from his personal life into the ring when fighting opponents. While the actual boxing matches are abbreviated in the film, they serve as the vehicle for depicting LaMotta’s issues with sexuality, ethnicity, violence, working-class life, and self-esteem, among others. Through jealousy, paranoia, and fear, LaMotta destroys all of his relationships and becomes a bloated ex-champ whose life spirals out of control.

Jake LaMotta’s animalistic and gritty temperament represent a central theme in Raging Bull that manifests in both his boxing environment and personal life. LaMotta was a bull in the ring and a pig outside of it. He even wore a leopard print robe before his fights. His moments of rage terrorized his opponents as well as his loved ones. When analyzing the film through the lens of Stuart Hall’s Encoding and Decoding, viewers decode a message that goes beyond the fact that boxing is a violent sport; rather, they perceive LaMotta as a beastly figure both in and out of the ring. Hall offers insight into the relationship between media and their audiences by examining how messages are encoded by producers and decoded by consumers. While audiences may interpret a different meaning of the intended message, the media rely on understanding their audience’s perspective in order to develop a more effective message. The encoder uses certain symbols that are easily understood by the receiver. In Raging Bull, Scorsese wants the viewer to understand that LaMotta was a product of the society in which he lived. With most of the film taking place immediately following the conclusion of World War II, LaMotta was part of a community where gaining acceptance meant fighting and beating people mercilessly. The encoded messages and symbols used to support this premise are subtle yet incredibly intentional, particularly regarding fight scenes. During the boxing bouts, the music that accompanies the violent exchanges is layered with screams, grunts, and animal noises. The ring is a slaughterhouse and LaMotta represents a primitive, rabid beast who is incapable of expressing his emotions without resorting to violence in order to assert his dominance over others. Viewers are intended to perceive LaMotta and the sport of boxing as relentlessly ferocious to the point that it becomes primitive. It demonstrates to the consumer that LaMotta is ruled by a great deal of powerful emotions that he is unable to control or understand. Music and sound are appropriately used throughout the film to add another layer of messaging that the viewer may not immediately recognize but proves to be instrumental in our understanding of the protagonist and the sport in which he competes.

There are a number of other ways in which Scorsese brilliantly communicates the message to audiences. For instance, Scorsese employs bleak black and white photography throughout the film. He does this for a few reasons. First, it perfectly fits the subject and time period of the film—the 1940s and 1950s—when color television was not yet mainstream. Second, it serves a functional purpose that enables Scorsese to isolate the soul of the troubled protagonist. Audiences are forced to perceive the film through the lens of the time period. The black and white photography aestheticizes the film and lifts viewers out of the present and transports them into the appropriate era. Another way Scorsese influences the message is through the use of slow-motion. Particularly during fight scenes, when slow-motion is used, the audiences perceive that the film is being taken out of objective reality. It places the viewer in the subjectivity of LaMotta’s mind. This is an effective technique for decoding the message as it shows the audience a more violent depiction of the blows exchanged in the ring.

Jake LaMotta is a deceivingly complex character whose sexual insecurities and masochist behaviors are reasons for his professional and personal pitfalls. Raging Bull is not a boxing movie as much as it is a story that explores the darker elements of masculinity and human psychology. The sport and type of athlete matter a great deal. Boxers were perceived as macho-like figures that were the epitome of what it means to be a man. It requires never-ending individual effort and hardship to fight another warrior capable and willing to endure the same challenges. However, LaMotta’s sexual insecurities and emotional immaturity prove that premise wrong—it is entirely a myth. Once true, the narrative has been altered over time to convince consumers of its veracity (Barthes). If LaMotta’s case is closely examined, on the other hand, one can see how he clearly does not live up to those characteristics. LaMotta’s relationship with Vickie is an instrumental narrative in the film. LaMotta fears he is not sexually adequate enough to be in a relationship with such an attractive woman. By the same token, he feels he must assert his hyper-masculinity as a boxer in every way he can. He seeks to suppress his feminine features (such as “little girl hands”) and even implores his brother to punch him in the face repeatedly to demonstrate his tolerance for pain. This narrative is a function of the lower-class Italian community in which he grew up as well as the time period. During the 1940s and 1950s, men asserted, or attempted to assert dominance and control over women in society. A limited and narrowminded understanding of gender roles was pervasive because that was the culture at the time. As Garry Whannel points out in Media Sports Stars: Masculinities and Moralities, the growth of sports media has given athletes a high degree of cultural visibility, particularly as it pertains to masculinity and morality. Boxing is the ultimate combination of competitive individualism and masculinity. Thus, during the 1940s and 1950s, men (particularly LaMotta) associate masculinity with aggression, violence, and authority. However, the audience sees how toxic the narrative around hyper-masculinity can be. It degrades relationships, communication skills, and notions of self-worth. Finally, LaMotta is far from being a hero and role model. Joseph Campbell’s analysis of the term ‘hero’ concludes that the hero’s actions define him. Clearly, LaMotta’s deplorable behavior alone precludes him from being considered a hero. LaMotta does, however, rise to Celebrity status given his boxing accomplishments including winning the middleweight championship. Given LaMotta’s violent nature throughout the film, he is unquestionably an anti-hero and a protagonist who—through his actions—continues to undermine himself and others.

Cinderella Man

Cinderella Man (2005) depicts the rags-to-riches story of boxer James Braddock who overcomes financial hardship caused by the Great Depression and ultimately wins the heavyweight championship. During the late 1920s, Braddock was considered a highly ranked fighter until he broke his hand in competition. With his career decimated by injury, Braddock could no longer support his family, so he began working as a laborer at the docks. With only one day’s notice, Braddock was given a second chance and fought John “Corn” Griffin, a formidable heavyweight contender. To everyone’s surprise, Braddock emerged victorious and his road to a comeback began. Braddock earns the opportunity to fight the heavyweight champion, Max Baer, for the title. Baer is well-known for having killed two other boxers during fights and many suspected Braddock would become the third. As the underdog, Braddock defeats Baer and not only becomes a boxing champion, but also the champion of the downtrodden masses.

When analyzing Cinderella Man, it is important to consider the time period in which it is set. During the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s, the United States experienced its most harmful period of economic hardship—the Great Depression. In the film, the media is used to establish the time period and help the viewer understand the magnitude of the Depression. The film calls attention to the plight of working-class individuals during a time of hopelessness and despair. Seemingly all faith in institutions was lost. Thus, sports became a vehicle for diverting attention away from misery. Sports, and boxing in particular, was instrumental in lower-class culture because it served as a method of escapism from their problems. Heavyweight champions, in fact, were seen as superstars and larger than life figures. They often represented the struggle of the poor and thus, were champions of the common man as much as they were boxing champions. James Braddock precisely characterized this cause. As an aspiring boxer whose career was interrupted by hardship, Braddock was undoubtedly the underdog in his quest to become a heavyweight champion.

In Cinderella Man, the media play a vital role in shaping the message that is consumed by the general public. As the gatekeepers of all information, the media have significant influence in developing and communicating the message (Lazersfeld & Merton). During the early twentieth century, the introduction of radio transformed media production and consumption. While newspapers were mostly considered local media, radio elevated sports media to a national scale and helped usher in the “golden age” of sports. Radio announcers offered poetic insight, using metaphors and anecdotes that were both relatable and engaging. The explosion of radio during the 1920s and 1930s enabled fans to experience sporting competitions in real time. Broadcasters, while each retained a unique style, all shared the ability to recreate the excitement at the stadium or arena for listeners at home. Many overdramatized and exaggerated, but it unquestionably made sporting events widely accessible across the country and contributed to the formation of myths (King Football, 39).

One scene in particular that showcases the influence of radio is when Braddock fights John “Corn” Griffin. While fighting in front of a sold-out crowd at Madison Square Garden Bowl, many more are listening live on the radio. Before the fight, the radio announcer lays a foundation of expectations. He tells the audience that Braddock is expected to last no more than two rounds and is up against a five-to-one favorite. Immediately, the audience perceives Braddock as an underdog. With each subsequent description, the announcer offers very colorful and playful language filled with similes and metaphors. He uses phrases such as “Griffin storms out of his corner”, “six minutes of fury”, “Braddock is trying to hold back an avalanche”, and “he’s just a piece of meat and Braddock is carving him up”. Audiences, huddled around the radio, hear descriptions that more closely resemble a battle than an actual boxing match. This is entirely intentional by the radio announcer as he seeks to provide a sense of fantasy and myth associated with the competition.

Additionally, as presented in the film, the media portray James Braddock as a hero among the working-class. Prior to his title bout with Baer, a headline in the local newspaper reads, “Fairy Tale Fight for James J. Braddock?” The story continues, “boxer Jim Braddock has come back from the dead to change the face of courage in our nation. In a land that is downtrodden, Braddock’s comeback is giving hope to every American. People who are ready to throw in the towel are finding inspiration in their new hero, Jim Braddock.” This is precisely how the media creates and disseminates a particular narrative. Fortunately for Braddock, the story is very positive and classifies him as the quintessential “people’s champ”. As the common man hero, Braddock’s underdog story is further solidified and his quest for the heavyweight title becomes even more improbable.

Comparing & Contrasting the Two Films

When comparing Raging Bull and Cinderella Man, there is one key similarity that sticks out in both films. Professional sports, and boxing in particular, are highly commoditized forms of entertainment (Tudor, 12-13). The athletes that compete in professional sports are incredibly replaceable and often short-lived. As shown in each film, the boxer represents exploited labor in an organized competition. Even when they succeed or fail, they seemingly can never escape exploitation. Rollerball perfectly resembles this problem with sports as it demonstrates the power of owners, regulators, commissioners, and other executives in relation to the athletes. Those that actually compete are at the behest of powerful people who run or otherwise control the sport. In Raging Bull, Jake LaMotta was under pressure from the New York Mob such that he intentionally threw a fight. By the same token, James Braddock must adhere to the power of a corrupt boxing commission that organizes fights. As such, boxers have very little agency in their decisions and typically have no other choice but to follow the demands of the few individuals who wield power.

The two films, while both follow the life of a boxer, are vastly different for a variety of reasons. Of course, there are obvious differences such as the time period, trajectory of protagonists, and relevant themes, among others. However, one point of difference that stands out is the relationship the boxers have with their wives. The presence of a female significant other is ubiquitous in Hollywood films. But in Raging Bull and Cinderella Man, wives play a crucial role in the understanding of the male protagonist. Certainly, the personalities of Jake LaMotta and James Braddock are polar opposites. As an abusive and repulsive character, LaMotta must constantly assert his dominance over his wife Vicki. His sexual insecurities are on display when LaMotta cannot tolerate other men complimenting or otherwise flattering Vicki. As such, LaMotta is motivated by his desire for control, a common theme throughout Raging Bull. James Braddock, on the other hand, is driven by his family as he tries to do everything in his power to ensure he provides for them. Braddock’s wife, Mae, pushed back on the idea of him returning to boxing following an injury and particularly before the fight against Baer. However, she is incredibly supportive and proves to be paramount to his success. Thus, while Braddock may be a less interesting character compared to the boastful, self-destructive, and repugnant Jake LaMotta, he nevertheless remains motivated by those closest to him.

The Peculiarities Of Boxing As A Sport

Imagine showing up to school, ready to sign up for boxing. Boxing has been practiced since ancient times even the Egyptians used to play it. For decades, the topic of whether boxing should be banned has been in constant debate. But now, the topic about whether boxing should be a school sport has been brought to the table to be argued. Opponents defy this proposal by arguing that boxing will encourage violence, and cause nothing but harm among the students. Proponents argue that it will benefit the students mentally and physically and even teach them about the basis of self-defense. Evidence shows that it should be allowed to be a sport at schools.

Boxing through centuries has been viewed differently. In ancient times it was viewed as a sport in which only the fit strong male in society would participate in it. But as time has passed by society has categories boxing as brutal support in which violence is the only outcome. Many failed to realize all the positive outcomes of such sports. They have been blinded by the myths and close-minded people’s thoughts instead of realizing how it benefits those who play it. For decades it’s been judged while many failed to see the true art of such sport.

Self-defense

Boxing will allow students to learn the basics of self-defense. Our youth should learn the basics of self-defense in case of any incident in which they are under attack or are in a harmful situation. One reason why boxing should be allowed to be a school sport has to do with the idea that it will teach students self-defense which will lead to self-confidence. For example, according to one researcher, “Being able to protect yourself in all situations is a confidence booster as much as it is a reassurance… that can only be gained through any form of self-defense classes. Today, when people think about self-defense classes, they tend to think about women and children. However, self-defense classes (and practices such as karate, boxing, jiu-jitsu, etc. ), are for everyone” (Mayle, Megan). In other words, Mayle is implying that self-defense classes lead to participants to have an increase of self-confidence which is something highly wanted among our youth, especially with so many teenagers lacking such. Self-confidence will benefit our youth and all due to being a result of having self-defense classes which can be achieved by taking boxing classes. This communicates the central idea that boxing should be allowed as a sport in schools because it will serve as a self-defense class which would lead to an increase in self coding in the youth in the world which is a double win for everyone since both things are very necessary.

Self-defense can also lead to self-discipline which can be defined as “the ability to make yourself do things when you should, even if you do not want to do them” (Cambridge). An additional argument in favor of boxing as a school sport is clear when you consider the fact that self-discipline should be enforced in the raising of our everyday children because they in the long run when they are struggling with life. This is further evidenced by the finding of Fayz where they established that “The benefits to self-discipline for boxing are endless, it will give you that cutting edge over your opponent when you eventually come across someone as talented as you… Your hard work and discipline will come out in these situations when you need it most. When you have self-discipline your standards rise, you aren’t in it for the short term but for the long term which is where you reap the rewards of self-discipline” (Fayz). To clarify, self-discipline is essential when it comes to achieving success since it will raise your standard and lead you to exile even more. Such determination while benefits the students to become better in what they do daily all as a result of boxing. This reveals the idea that school sports should include boxing because self-discipline will be amplified upon the students influencing them to strive for more benefiting them in the long run by not allowing them to settle for less and always seek to become greater.

Health and diets

Boxing will serve as an ideal way for students to stay physically fit and be on a healthy diet. According to Floyd Mayweather, “Diet and nutrition will be instrumental to their success,” (Telegraphy). This reveals that a key factor for boxing is maintaining a healthy diet which would lead them to become more successful in the sport. It will serve as an encouragement among the youth to live a healthy lifestyle if they want to be successful in the sport. Boxing will help decrease the high statistics of obesity among adolescents and children. According to cdc.gov, “Childhood obesity is a serious problem in the United States putting children and adolescents at risk for poor health. Obesity prevalence among children and adolescents is still too high” (Childhood Obesity Facts). If a sport that will encourage a healthier lifestyle why is it still being denied to be established as a sport in schools.

In boxing, success can be achieved if there is no success without healthy diets. According to bigbiggerbeards.org, “Boxers must keep a consistently healthy diet to perform to their highest potential” (bigbiggerbeards.org). In other words, boxing promotes a healthy diet that gets into the habit of the boxer into living a healthier lifestyle. Schools only seek the good for their student’s right health is one of these things therefore boxing should be a sport in schools.

Emotional and mental health

Boxing should be allowed as a sport in schools because it will bring many positive outcomes to the students who participate in it. Not only will it allow them to become more mentally and emotionally stable. Proponents of boxing make a strong case when they bring to light the situation of how boxing will reduce stress on those who practice such sports. A fellow researcher has established that “Engaging in physical activity is a natural way to reduce stress, and boxing is a perfect choice… stress is reduced by focusing on technique and hitting the zone. Exercising also helps one achieve a healthy body, which improves a person’s body image and self-confidence.”(reference). Essentially, boxing will lead to stress levels being reduced, helping those who do it become more mentally stable, improving their mental and emotional health. Thus, school boxing is appropriate because schools should seek the students’ health to be important and if boxing can help it then why should they deny such activity to the students.

Another reason as to why school districts should establish boxing as a sport is that depression and anxiety will be reduced in those who participate in such sport. A study conducted by doctors in the U.K illustrates this concept when they state, “Classes can help to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression by focusing the mind and body in the present moment and taking people away from ruminating thoughts or worries’ (NetDoctors). This reveals that boxing classes or sessions reduce depression and anxiety which is slowly becoming more common among our youth according to healthychildren.org, “According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly 1 in 3 of all adolescents ages 13 to 18 will experience an anxiety disorder. These numbers have been rising steadily…”. As schools, they must seek the welfare of their students at all times therefore why should they not invest in supporting such a sport that is known to benefit its participants. Let’s consider this for a second the teenagers are going to be doing a sport that will not only allow them to stay in shape but as well as maintain their mental and emotional state.

Counter arguments

One reason as to why others propose that boxing should not be allowed as a sport in schools has to do with the idea that it encourages violence. For example according to some people they say, “The sport is barbaric and no better than an organized physical assault, which would be illegal in any other context” (how to play). In other words, others will say that boxing is a sport that only uses violence and will do nothing less than promoting that among the youth, however, this claim is just not rational because studies have shown that boxers are more rational and less likely to use their skills against others that do not box. They are less violent and avoid conflicts for the most part. The knowledge and skills gained by boxers are all applied and used based upon their morals. Classifying boxing in general as barbaric and encouraging violence is foolish because it is a sport that benefits those that do it by encouraging self-defense not to by provoking problems.

Those who are against boxing also try to defend their points by saying that boxing will distract students from their studying. This is evident when they established “Another reason why most high schools do not promote boxing is that they said that it can distract students from studying. They will just be focused on boxing and might not provide the level of study needed to graduate through high school” (thesportsdaily). To clarify opponents will make you believe that boxing will become nothing more than a stress factor to the lives of the students and prevent them from studying and performing well in school. However, this is false because studies have shown that sports don’t distract students from the school. Many schools do not allow their students to perform in any school sports of the are not doing academically well therefore one of the requirements to play sports is to do well in academics. This encourages them to do well in school instead of becoming distracted. Also, studies reveal that boxing reduces stress and not increases.

Conclusion

In conclusion, boxing should be allowed as a sport within schools because it will bring many benefits to the students who decided to partake in it. There will be able to relieve stress, become mentally and emotionally more stable, as well as physically become healthier. Overall the students’ health will greatly benefit in many ways. Therefore schools should approve boxing as a sport, if something is going to impact the life of the students for a better outcome why shouldn’t it be allowed. If the schools seriously seek the best interest for the students why shall they deny such great privilege to them?

The Features Of Preparation Of Boxers

Outline

Boxing is an individual sport in which two people are placed in a square ring who fight with fists wearing padded gloves. It is one of Australia’s oldest individual sports. The first Australian boxing contest recorded in history took place in Sydney on 8 January 1814 involving John Parton and Charles Sefton who were two convicts who bareknuckle boxed. After 56 rounds and 90 minutes of tough fighting, John was declared the winner. Boxing has always been criticised in the press for it may been very popular but is also very brutal. Fights were organised in unusual places frequently trying to hide from police or law enforcement of any kind. Issac Read was an english man who defeated the George Hough in 1847 hidden in bushland at Sydney’s Middle Head. The contest lasted 98 minutes and was attended by thousands. Native-born and immigrants also got into contests as rivalry’s would form and antagonising would spark between the two groups. With everyone desperate for entertainment boxing took place on goldfields because of the minimum facilities. There were a variety of contests including ‘gloved’ or ‘bareknuckle’ exhibitions. In 1855 in Fiery Creek Victoria, a 6 hour and 15 minute long fight sparked between Jonathon Smith who was defeated by James Kelly.

Other sports were constantly expanding and prospering throughout 1850 and the 1860s but boxing was left handicapped and banned by any prying eyes of the law. Boxing was legalised until 1924 when all six states decided for it to become a proper sport.

Describe

Regardless of the participants experience, gender or age boxing is encouraged throughout Australia. Besides from entertainment and fitness boxing gives you discipline, patience, humility, gives you confidence and even helps manage adrenaline. It’s influenced in Australia through previous champs with their characteristics/ sportsmanship and even through safety benefits.

Identify

Boxing has become one of the most watched sporting events on earth. The first boxing fight recorded had no written rules to regulate anything in the sporting event which was held in Britain. The first set of rules wasn’t introduced until 1743 which was more than 60 year later which only complied because former champion Jack Broughton made for the safety and to protect fighters in the ring. Deaths occurred before the rules were provided. One of the rules included a 30 second count when a fighter was knocked down and if he couldn’t continue the opponent would be crowned champion. The mouth guard wasn’t invented until 1902 but wasn’t used until 1913 in a boxing ring.

Weight Classification

Opponents are chosen determined on their weight classification. When in training for an upcoming fight, the boxer’s aim is to get down to the fighting weight for the official weight — that generally takes place the day before the fight. Whilst there were only eight weight classifications originally, in modern day boxing, there are now 17 professional major weight classes In boxing events throughout the early 19th century, there were no weight classes to distinguish which fighters were suitable to fight each other. The first weight classes were introduced in 1910 and were: flyweight, bantamweight, featherweight, lightweight, welterweight, middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight. There were originally eight, however, there are now technically 17 weight classes within boxing. Some of these have been changed over time, with the most recent weight class introduction in 2007.

Nutrition

Nutrition is just as important as training when boxers are preparing for an upcoming fight. A diet is a crucial part of staying in shape and keeping up with the demands of training. A diet comprising of the three main macronutrients, carbohydrates, lean protein and good fats, puts you in the best position for optimum workout performance and helps you reach your target weight. Pure protein is key, as is plenty of liquids. Most boxers aim to stay within 3-5% of their target weigh-in weight whilst training to avoid the need of a crash diet, which could affect their performance. According to TalkBoxing, a boxer’s diet should contain 45-55% carbohydrates, 30-40% protein and 15% of fats. Boxers require carbohydrates because the sport is an anaerobic activity which requires the maintenance of high energy levels for 12 intensive, three-minute rounds. Carbohydrates slowly release energy, replacing used up glycogen stores. Meanwhile, protein is needed in a boxer’s diet to help maximise recovery and contribute to muscle growth, whilst certain fats are required for the upkeep of internal bodily functions. These are generally called ‘good fats’ or ‘essential fats’ — think omega-3 and omega-6. Some boxers choose to take additional protein powder supplements as workout aids, to try and boost their workout performance and reach new goals.

Clarify

Female boxers have yet to catch up with their male counterparts in terms of pay. Since women’s boxing has been unsuccessful at reaching the masses on a saturated level the pay for female boxers varies greatly depending on weight class, record and match-ups. While the same can be said for male boxers, the championship purses are not comparable.A female boxer just beginning can probably look to earn between 200-400 dollars a fight. Again this varies on the area fighting, the weight class, record and match-ups.I was looking for more information and found it here. Relative unknown male boxers can secure between 2,000-5,000 with the same factors weighing their ring value. The big difference, though is the champions. Christy Martin, one of the most, if not the most successful women’s boxer of all-time was able to secure huge paydays in the 75,00-200,000 range when she was at her peak. She also negotiated to become the first female boxer to fight in a bout with a purse of 1,000,000 against Lucia Rijker. Although the fight never happened it did push the bar forward for women’s boxing. When compared to the millions that male boxers make for just showing up to a fight, women’s boxing still has a ways to go.

Investigate

Boxing, a sport known for its violence and brutality with a long history that made an impact and somehow has been “a way of life” to different cultures since the ancient times Asram, Iraq where two boxers, facing each other in a form of fighting, with each is ready to deliver or defend a blow. As good as boxing as a sport with rich cultural history, it is also a sport that has the power to drive and influence the economy of a certain community even when that certain country is facing an economic crisis. Rosca (2012:p 128) states, from the early 1880’s to the 1920’s, boxing has risen from a ‘backyard sport’, circus entertainment and an illegal fighting to a social phenomenon that attracted masses of people; with arenas, stadiums and theatres being sold out. Take America for an instance, during the great depression, a lot of the people felt challenged and experienced living conditions that they were not used to be it Americans, African- Americans or even children’s, but boxing had a major influence on the economy market. When the market was down, businesses and banks went bankrupt and unemployment rates grew, but boxing grew as a business as their supply and demand for fights, its monetary income increase. The people of the great depression chose the immediate joy and the sense of belonging that a boxing fight induced to them rather than the long term of saving money. They would rather witness the joy a boxing match would give them. With this statement alone regarding the great depression, just shows how prestigious and high status boxing was, back in those day.

Discuss

Anthony Mundine is an Australian former professional boxer and rugby league footballer. Mundine is well known for his heated rivalries with fellow Australians Danny Green and Daniel Geale. Before his move to boxing, Mundine was the highest-paid player in the NRL. He considers himself to be Australia’s best all-round athlete. He is the son of former boxer Tony Mundine and hails from the Bundjalung people of northern coastal areas of New South Wales. Mundine was named the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Person of the Year in 2000. He is the first boxer in history to have had every one of his professional fights broadcast for television and has generated more pay-per-views than any other Australian boxer since he turned professional.