Boxing Classes

At Phoenix MMA, we’ve developed programs in our boxing classes to introduce the fundamentals of boxing to newcomers, and assist experienced members improve technique, stamina and conditioning. We start with basic moves and stances, striking drills and head and hand defences, before moving onto advanced practices and cardio workouts to improve endurance.

We train a vast range of people, from those who simply enjoy boxing classes as a method of keeping fit, to those preparing for the next Phoenix Fight Night. If you decide to come along you may even train with professional MMA fighters getting ready for their next Cage Warriors appearance – but don’t worry, although different abilities do train together, if you come face-to-face with someone more experienced than you, there’s no fear of being outclassed, as we instruct everyone to show respect, and rather than take advantage of someone less skillful than them, use it as an opportunity to help increase their opponents confidence whilst working on their own head movement and defence. no one ever walks away from a class feeling bad, we work together as a team to help each other improve.

Visit one of our Boxing Classes at our gyms in Bournemouth, Southampton and Gosport to experience the exciting sport of boxing, with professional coaches and friendly members.

Equipment: Before coming along to a class, it’s recommended you purchase a pair of 16oz gloves, hand wraps and boxing boots. A vest top or t-shirt and shorts should be worn.

History of Boxing

The history of boxing is detailed, and in this article, we seek to give you a clear outline of how it came into existence.

Ancient Greece

The first instance of boxing in historical records dates back to the 3rd millennium, first seen in Iraq on some Sumerian artefacts. Babylonia and Assyria nations of Mesopotamia also had similar artefacts with etchings demonstrating two people punching on each other with their fists wrapped. Ancient Greece later acquired boxing, and it became among her most loved and enjoyed sport. In 688 BC, in the 33rd Olympiad, boxing was recognized as an Olympic sport.

During this historical era, the participants used leather made clothing as wrappings for their hands to protect them. The match had no rounds as it is today, but instead, the boxers competed until one could not hold anymore and conceded defeat. Additionally, there were no weight classes; so, fighters of all sizes could face each other. The mighty ones always took the lead.

Boxing in London

Boxing surfaced in London, England, in the 16th century through a sport known as bare-knuckle boxing. The boxers here competed for prize money or trinkets and were referred to as Prize-fighters. In 1743, James Broughton, a bare-knuckle champion, came up with a rule to protect the boxers’ health. He argued that if a fighter got knocked down and failed to get back to his feet within thirty seconds, the match should end with the opponent being declared the winner. This rule is still in practice today. Other rules formulated by Broughton include the prohibition of eye-gouging, biting the opponent, holding ropes, and head butting.

Marquess of Queensberry Rules

Rules that oversee present-day boxing matches were formulated in the 1800s. John Chambers came up with the renowned Marquess of Queensberry rules. These rules include:

• The match should be held in a square boxing ring measuring 24 feet across
• The rounds should be 3 minutes each with 1-minute rest between them
• In case of a knockdown, the boxer should be given a ten count
• Grappling is prohibited

Boxing gloves were also introduced here, which increased protection for the boxers.

Modern Boxing

With boxing evolution, modern-day boxing seems to have a new twist in defensive techniques and prizes. Hundreds of countries have today adopted boxing with Mexico, Russia, and the United States, treating it as a part of their daily lives. Boxers have adopted defence techniques like counterpunching, weaving and bobbing. The prizes offered to the winners have also risen tremendously with Mayweather, the recent winner in the 2015 Bout believed to have taken home about $300 million in a single night. The boxing rings have also witnessed attractive ladies making their moves as they welcome the boxers and during breaks.

Introducing your kids to boxing will do them more good than harm; for example, they can learn to use some self-defence techniques as well as help them build their boxing talent. At Phoenix MMA, we offer boxing classes for both kids and adults. If you are in Southampton, Gosport or Bournemouth, you can join our Phoenix MMA gyms for boxing classes.