What should a boxer think about when fighting/sparring?

[HerbM]

To over think anything will slow you up...

To train and spar with the correct forethought(thats the time to think) before you do; should get you into the zone,so that your answers come naturally in the ring.
Less thought the better for me otherwise it stops you getting in the zone.

To have a certain frame of mind is a different kettle of fish, to be enjoying yourself in there gives your mind the space it requires to be able to react to your best abilities.

If you are getting a hiding or losing focus try smiling to yourself inside and enjoy the moment you put yourself there; you may as well.

You find with humor and a inner smile to yourself etc, the brain relaxes...


Not that you shouldnt think at all, but ...

If you're doing it under the hammer, you need to think I need space ...

Thanks for the thoughtful reply.

And I completely agree with the idea and methods of having fun and relaxing -- smile, enjoy the ride, have fun, get into the zone....

As to THINKING, I read you as a minimalist, especially under the hammer -- think only enough to recognize you are in a bad place and give yourself a one or two word command to change that situation.

Again, I tend to agree when under the hammer (no time to think much there, except to MOVE, CHANGE the situation, GET SAFE, and HIT BACK -- BECOME the hammer or move to a new place.

Would you have a different opinion if you could think clearly and logically while maintaining focus and state and while having fun?

My favorite example of people who do this are top surgeons -- they can carry on complex thought and remain relaxed having fun for hours while staying in the zone of excellence.

Of course when faced with a sudden emergency situation they can go to mere reactions to stop the bleeding or restart the heart etc.

Also, combat fighter pilots do this as well, as well as demonstration team pilots like the Blue Angels I believe.

Do you believe complex thought is a poor idea in general, or only if it prevents maintaining the most effective state?

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HerbM