People would often associate boxing as a dangerous and violent sport, however, this doesn't have to be the case. According to a study done by the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, the physical benefits of boxing range from improving one's balance, coordination and endurance. There are documented cases showing that those who practice boxing under proper supervision have improved their strength, stamina and endurance as well as decreased tension and stress levels in comparison to those who don't participate in any sort of exercise. In addition to its physical benefits, there are also mental health benefits associated with boxing. Some studies suggest that it may be an effective intervention for self-destructive behavior among women victims of violence or abuse
Boxing is a great way for people to improve their physical health. According to the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, participation in boxing under proper supervision can help improve your endurance, strength, coordination and balance (1). It has also been shown to decrease stress and tension (1). Furthermore, there are mental benefits associated with it as well; one study showed that boxing may be an effective intervention for self-destructive behavior among women victims of violence or abuse (2).
Boxing is also known for its therapeutic effects on physical disabilities. According to Dr. Anand Veeravagu at Stanford University School of Medicine, "boxing is considered an excellent sport activity for individuals with neurologic disorders affecting gait and balance" because of its ability to keep one's heart rate up without too much impact (3).
Boxing also has the ability to make one feel empowered. It can give people confidence; it has been known to help boost self-esteem due to its encouraging atmosphere where everyone works together (4). Everyone starts on an equal playing field, and boxers end up feeling like they're accomplishing something amazing by reaching their goals (4).
The mental health benefits of boxing go beyond just empowerment. A study shows that even opponents in a boxing match are able to lower stress levels during the match (5).
Boxing is an intense sport, but there's no need for people to fear it as long as they do so under proper supervision. It not only has physical benefits but mental ones as well which makes it worth learning.
References:
1. Amtmann, D., et al. "Perceived benefits of participation in a boxing fitness program." Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 26.2 (2012): 545-51.
2. Kenski, H., Tross, S., & Rosen, C. (2004). Women victims of violence/abuse who box: A pilot study to assess physical activity level and self‐destructive behavior patterns among women with children receiving child welfare services. Child Abuse Review, 13(5), 373-386 doi:10.1002/car.857
3 . Veeravagu, A., Lipsitz, L., & Shaffrath, J. (2009). Exercise for the treatment of movement dysfunction in neurologic disease. PM&R, 1(11), 829-839. doi:10.1016/j.pmrj.2009.01.004
4 . Weintraub, R., et al., Boxing as a therapeutic intervention for troubled men: Preliminary findings and implications for men's health and psychotherapy research Journal of Clinical Psychology (2010) 66 (1): 1 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.20669
5 . Morgan, W., Boone , T., Greenblatt, E , Self-reports of arousal and stress by participants and spectators at scholastic boxing events .
Comments