Fast vs. Athletic.

[VG_Addict]

What is the difference, if any, between the two?

Fast is about Speed , whereas Athletic is more about movement I would say.
An example would be my old mate Amir Khan. He's very quick with his hands, but his athleticism and movement isn't anything to write home about, and his stamina isn't great , and I think that also comes under athletic.
Whereas Someone like RJJ had both, (Mind you, RJJ had everything in his peak!)
I'm sure others will disagree or explain it better, but that's how I see it.

Khan also has poor balance, which falls under coordination, part of athleticism.

[Rantcatrat]

In boxing, having quick hands is one component of being athletic. In other words, I doubt there are many athletic boxers, who don't have quick hands. Other components of being athletic are strength, having quick footwork, heavily coordinated, fast reflexes, explosiveness, and ease in movement.

[beenKOed]

In boxing, having quick hands is one component of being athletic. In other words, I doubt there are many athletic boxers, who don't have quick hands. Other components of being athletic are strength, having quick footwork, heavily coordinated, fast reflexes, explosiveness, and ease in movement.

You said what a lot of us were thinking! You ever here anyone say, "He's slow but athletic!" There are guys with incredible handspeed, who are fun to watch, but most of the time I find myself thinking they would be better off if they were a little slower but hit harder.

[johnsebastianmiran]

As was said earlier. fast is about speed, a gift of nature while being athletic is leaning and adjusting always open to new ways of fighting and alert.