Here’s what you’ll need to get started if you’re thinking about taking up boxing, kickboxing or Muay Thai.
•14/16oz gloves •Wraps •Mouthguard
•Shinguards
A lot of people don’t realise there are different types of gloves. Below is a rundown of what you need to know if you’re new to striking.
Proper boxing gloves are weighted from 8oz-16oz. If you’re training with us, we suggest you use 16oz gloves or if you’re a smaller female, you can get away with 14oz. This size glove is your typical sparring glove. The weight slows down your punches and the extra padding ensures you don't hurt yourself and your teammate.
If you end up training with me, we engage in plenty of parter drills to ensure proper technique and execution so 16/14oz gloves are highly recommended.
For those getting a bit more serious with their training, you might want 2 pairs of gloves in your gym bag. One pair for sparring and drills and another pair for your bag-work. Bag gloves are normally 8oz or 10oz gloves so you can work on that hand speed.
Wraps are worn to protect your hands. Make sure they are elasticised and long enough to efficiently support your wrist and knuckles. Lengths range from 3-5m.
If you’re a beginner, don’t get too caught up on brands, leather or pleather, lace-ups or velcro. Your local sports store should stock standard wraps and gloves but just make sure you get the right ones for your training.
If you're more focused on kickboxing, you'll need shinguards to properly learn how to defend and attack with kicks. I do suggest spending a little bit more money on these, even if you are starting out. Anyone who's checked a kick knows the pain if your shin isn't properly protected in training.
It can be daunting taking up this type of combat sport and a lot of people don't know if they will like it and are reluctant to invest in the proper equipment. I always suggest starting with basic gloves. There are always modified drills we can resort to if you don't have a mouthguard or shinguards. But if it is something you'd like to continue, investing in the proper protection won't only protect you, it will protect your training partners and make your training more enjoyable.
Stay tuned for more STRIKE! TIPS and stay safe!
If you're looking to start training, contact STRIKE! for more information.
You can also find April at Nuckle gym, Newstead.
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