What is it? Fundamentally, it’s two people in gloves punching each other. In reality, it’s more likely to be a cardio circuit class, which is only partly spent punching someone.
How much does it cost? Some gyms offer classes and equipment free with membership, otherwise it can cost about £20 a lesson in a specialised boxing gym.
What does it promise? You’ll be leaner and fitter. Your coordination will improve and so, theoretically, will your self-esteem.
What’s it actually like? Much, much harder than it looks. The bulk of the class is taken up with pad work, where you have to memorise and then deploy an incredibly long series of moves – jab, jab, hook, duck, hook, uppercut, lean, hook – as fast as you can, before swapping places with your partner and mirroring the combination while they punch you. It’s mentally and physically exhausting – especially since you’re expected to constantly bob around while you do it. But before you even get to that part of the class, you’re worn down by a punishing series of press-ups, burpees, skipping and sprints that (if you’re me) just serve to reinforce the fact that you’re not nearly as fit as you think you are. After a few weeks, though, you begin to master the basics. Even if you’re not ready to spar with anyone – I tried it once, with disastrous consequences – it’s an intense workout.
Best and worst bit Once you finally figure out a long strike combination on the pads, and can repeat it without thinking, you actually feel like a proper boxer. Then someone punches you, and it hurts, and you don’t.
Is it worth it? Absolutely.
