My
new infatuation with boxing has taken some of my relatives and friends by surprise. “So… boxing, huh?” they ask. “Why boxing?” Because, you know, there are a million other things that I could do that aren’t crazy or potentially painful.
My stock answer is: “Because it’s really, really fun.” And this is true. It is really fun! I enjoy myself more at the gym than any other place. Maybe that’s a sad statement about the rest of my life as a floundering first-year teacher, or maybe it’s a sign that I’ve found something I really love. Whether this will be a hobby for a lifetime or a season, I’m enjoying the moment.
I enjoy the intensity of boxing workouts. It makes me feel alive when I have to push to keep a fast pace and summon extra energy that I didn’t think I had. I also enjoy the variety that each class brings. Sure, we do many of the same types of exercises from day to day, but two classes are never exactly alike.
I’m enjoying meeting people and making new friends in the area. Most of the conversations I have are only snatches in between rounds or before/after classes, but I still feel like I’m getting to know some nice people. There’s something about exercising together that creates a feeling of friendship. (Or I’m just crazy. It’s been said.)
A side-effect of boxing that I’m enjoying is a renewed sense of confidence. My confidence in my own abilities hasn’t been great this past year. At work, I feel like I can never live up to my school’s expectations and that I almost only receive criticism. In the gym, on the other hand, I’m getting a lot of encouragement from my trainer and fellow boxers. I’ll never forget the first time someone asked me: “When’s your next fight?” As if I were a professional boxer! (As if I were ready to have an actual fight. Ha! No way.) I know that I have a whole lot left to learn and practice, but I actually feel like I’m good at boxing, which makes me feel good about myself.
Inevitably, we come to the violent/risky/scary part of boxing that makes some people think I’m out of my mind. I’ll say it: I enjoy punching people. Since that sounds terrible, I’ll qualify that statement. I enjoy punching consenting people who have the proper training to defend themselves (and hit me back). Does that sound better? Of everything that I’ve done at DBC so far, I’ve enjoyed sparring the most. There’s something about it that I can’t put my finger on, yet. It has to do with a desire to fight.
Sure, there are a million other hobbies that I could’ve picked up, and there are milder ways to make friends and increase self-confidence. I’ve picked boxing, though, because it feels like a perfect fit for me. I can’t wait to see where it takes me.
“Why boxing?” Because it’s really, really fun. I think that’s a pretty good reason.
Road to Fight Night 
I’m proud to not be one of those who questioned you in that way (or did I?) but maybe I shouldn’t say that because it might cause others to doubt me and whether I am crazy or not! ;-) The not-so-subtle pressure that can be put on us… pshew. While it is perhaps good to be asked the question so that you can clarify it all in your own head, you aren’t crazy. For those who wonder, I did encourage her to keep her hands up!
You’re awesome, Mom! And definitely not crazy, either. That makes two of us. :)
What kind of pain do you experience?
So far, it’s mostly been in my nose from getting hit there over and over. Sometimes it bleeds and is sore and tender for up to a week; other times it’s back to normal within a couple of days. Really, that’s about it.
Sometimes I think about taking up a hobby that won’t put so much strain on my body, but then I think about all my friends at the gym and I know I can’t leave! Where else will you find a more interesting mix of girls than at a boxing gym? And where else can you make friends by punching them in the face?!
That’s totally true, Lisa! I’m always amazed by the mutual respect in the ring and how nothing is taken personally.
Aww, Kelsey! I’m really glad you’re having so much fun and that it’s making you feel good. I know you’re great, and I’m confident in your abilities, but I probably don’t tell you that enough. Sorry. I hope you can keep doing this and having all of the funs (and getting all of the confidences). :)
Also, lol, you enjoy punching people. I wanted to laugh really loudly at that part, but I would’ve woken you up. Aren’t you glad I didn’t? :)
Aaw, thanks, Rachel! That’s sweet. And, also, thanks for not waking me up! :)
How come there is no “like” button on this blog?
Anyway, I like it. Can relate to many of the reasons you enjoy boxing. :)
Thanks for stopping by!