Source
r/amateur_boxing•
Postscript624

Starting at a Gym

I'm trying to make the jump into boxing from some other martial arts, but the training schedule/style seems really different than what I'm used to. I found a gym (Ramalho's West End in Lowell, MA, if anybody's been there/goes there) and want to poke my head in, but I'd like to know what to expect. Does one usually pay a monthly fee and then just goes there like any other gym and hope to pick up the basics by watching? Should I expect classes or 1 on 1 training time or nothing?

Posted Jan 8, 2013, 9:46 PM UTC

412
bigredmnky•

Hang on a tick... Lowell Massachusetts? Like where Mickey Ward and Dick Ecklund's gym is? I'm gonna go ahead and say start there.

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Postscript624OP•

The very same.

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i_shit_trains•

Just go in an enquire about classes, times etc. They will most likely have a trial class which is free. Go along to the trial class and see if you like it. There is no commitment on your behalf to come back or signup if you don't like it. Payments varies, I pay weekly at my gym. Most do monthly though.

As to what to expect from the class; it varies from gym to gym. But I wouldn't worry about being new, if that is a concern. The trainer will ask if you have any experience boxing, and guide you through the basics. Most likely they will pair you up with someone of a similar skill level and make sure you're implementing the proper technique.

One thing for sure, if it’s a half decent gym, you certainly won't learn from just watching. The trainer will be helping you throughout the class. Most start by show the class a few drills/combos etc. then getting the class to do them on bags or pads, while the trainer walks around helping students, correcting their form and showing how to improve their technique.

Any questions let me know, I've been training for a few years.

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Postscript624OP•

Thanks for the advice man! When I'm making millions as a world champion boxer I'll kept your username tattoo'd on my chest or something.

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kongde•

Just go in and talk to the coach. I'm sure they get walk-ins all the time, most of whom know nothing. They're used to it, and will give you any info you need.

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TessierAshpoolSA•

Walk in and talk to them. If they are wankers walk out, if they are cool, pick up a few fitness classes, and get a feel for how good they are, then talk to the trainers about where you want to take it.

If you have done other martial arts you start with some advantages, but boxing is very much its own thing: I had (OK, [i]have[/i] a lot of bad habits which I am trying to unlearn.

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chrstrmBoxing Coach•

gym operations vary from place to place. you should just poke your head in. they're not going to charge you for just stopping by.

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Postscript624OP•

Yeah that's the plan, but I feel awkward easily if I don't know what I'm going into, so I like to plan ahead a little.

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senator_mendoza•

dude that gym is LEGIT. sends tons of guys to the golden gloves every year. based on their reputation, i can't imagine them being anything other than welcoming and professional. they'll probably have a receptionist so just drop by, say hi, and tell them you want to get started. see what they say.

based on my experience, most gyms have cardio "conditioning" classes that're great for starting out and getting comfortable, and then you can move on to technique classes where you learn actual boxing. hope you stick with it and i see you at golden gloves soon!

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Postscript624OP•

That makes me glad to hear. They have a big sign out front saying "home of champions", and I guess now I believe that. Here's hoping to see you there someday!

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i_shit_trains•

So how did you go?

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Postscript624OP•

I haven't had time yet to go, unfortunately. My school made me an offer of an RA job just after I posted this and between classes, work, and training I've yet to have a free day. Hopefully when i get into this new schedule some I'll be able to find some time. Thanks for checking back though.

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[deleted]•

[deleted]

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