Getting Involved in Boxing
Getting started is as simple as calling or visiting a local club near you. the coach will let you know about training times and will be happy to answer your questions.
You don't need much equipment to get started. You will need some comfortable clothes to work out in and you ought to get a mouthpiece and handwraps as soon as you can. When you take into account the relatively low membership fees most clubs charge, it is easy to see why boxing is one of the most inexpensive sports to participate in.
Not everyone who learns to box is interested in stepping into the ring to compete. Many people have discovered that boxing provides and excellent aerobic workout as well as teaching confidence-building skills. Even though they do not take part in competitive bouts, non-competitive boxers still learn all the basic skills a boxer needs and run through a training program that is very similar to that of competitive boxers (including sparring if they so wish.)
Along with the Canadian Amateur Boxing Association, Boxing Alberta is committed to fostering this fast-growing program. Female boxers are encouraged to compete and are welcome at every level - from local club cards up to national and even international competition. Although female boxers do not compete against males, the two train together an their level of skill and experience now compare favorably with that of their male counterparts. We also hold special developmental camps for budding female boxers where athletes from across Alberta are given an opportunity to hone their skills together. Our affiliated clubs welcome female members, please don't hesitate to get in touch!
You may be pleasantly surprised to hear that boxing is one of the safest organized sports. The rules have been formulated with safety of the boxers as the paramount concern. Participants are supervised at all times when they step into the ring and officials do not hesitate to stop the action if one of the combatants is outclassed. As well, every boxer must pass a medical examination prior to each bout and a doctor must be in attendance at ringside for every match. There are no Exceptions!
If you enjoy working with other people and have an interest in boxing, coaching may be just what you're looking for. Experience in boxing, although desirable, isn't necessary in order to be a good coach. Coaches at local clubs are generally glad to help a newcomer get started.
All coaches in Alberta are strongly encouraged to participate in the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). Boxing Alberta provides the sport-specific Technical Course component for the NCCP for levels I, II, and III. Courses are scheduled whenever there is a sufficient number of interested and qualified participants.
We are always on the lookout for new officials. as well as judges and referees, officials can serve as timekeepers, recorders, glovers, computer operators and jury members. Although it is possible to attend many events during a season, becoming an official need not require a major time commitment. Introductory officials' clinics are held during the season, often in conjunction with a tournament or other event.