Hey Reds


  • In terms of your quest to get from 177 to 165, as there are so many variables to consider I won't comment other than to say that point 2 in your post suggests that your quite trim anyway, so 12 lbs might be a struggle (it's the last 3 or 4 lb that get you!)
  • Your a lefty, I urge you to reconsider your selection of an orthodox style. A clever, strong and hard hitting southpaw provides terrible problems for your average orthodox boxer as your right hand jab comes in from a totally different angle and it's really awkward to defend against. If you move to your right as you're throwing the jab then it makes life even more difficult! Honestly, I'd really suggest that you reconsider and stick with southpaw, you'll get comfortable in time!
  • Don't quite know how to say this but....ignore this piece of advice from the guys you train with. You're a boxer, you learn to box! When the adjective 'Boxer' officially changes to 'Left Hooker', and we all partake in 'Left Hooking' and not 'boxing', then you can focus solely on the left hook. Until then, develop a balanced style. Don't focus on 'peek-a-boo', watch any boxing you can in order to learn. Coping with a boxer who only left hooks is relatively easy...even Iron Mike threw top notch jabs, crosses and uppercuts as well as possessing some outstanding footwork.

On to your specific points:

  1. Train as you are, and run on Wednesdays and Fridays, building in some sprints. Running is a must! It will carry you through the tough rounds, especially if you're loading up with hooks. Have Sunday and Monday to do as you please!
  2. I'm not a nutritionist so I'll swerve this (cop out alert!)
  3. Learn your boxing stance for mobility. Performing speed improvement exercises is good, but if the stance is wrong then the ankle weights etc. might as well be for a member of Michael Flatley's Riverdance Troupe...they need 'fast feet' as well! Have a look here for my version of the stance. I posted a drill here that might help.
  4. As previous, watch all the fighters you can. Don't focus solely on 'peek a boo' as such.
  5. Be sensible re: alcohol. Keep balance about your life, live healthily and in moderation and you'll be fine as a novice amateur boxer. That's not to say that this will always be the case. I think it does have an impact on your weight making as well (others may have a better understanding.)
  6. No Comment...nice problem to have though!

Good luck with the Novices, I've trained 3 winners of these Championships. They're a real good opportunity for guys like yourself and the quality is surprisingly good. Train hard and analyse your style as you go.

Good Luck mate

Yours in Sport

Fran