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066 SPORT


indexmagazine.co.uk


punch PACKING A


It used to be confined to traditional ‘spit and sawdust’ gyms but boxing – in its myriad forms – is now proving to be an adrenaline-fuelled, effective and addictive fitness pursuit for both sexes and all ages


T


here is nothing, within a gym or fitness setting, quite like the ‘high’ you get from landing a


successful boxing punch. It also comes with an addictive quality so, when you consider consistency is the Achilles’ heel of many a failed fitness journey, getting in the ring hits the spot on numerous levels. It’s one of the most effective


cardio workouts, it builds confidence and self-esteem, sharpens reactions and reflexes and, here’s the killer punch – it’s fun!


In the UK, boxing has, in recent years, undergone a transformation. The growth in popularity of MMA (mixed martial arts) and Muay Thai (Thai boxing, which is set to become an Olympic sport at Paris in 2024) has been joined by children’s classes, ladies-only sessions and high-end London gyms dedicated to boxing as a route to both fitness and competition.


Top class coach


Tommy Kotrla had an impressive amateur and professional boxing career in his native Czech Republic and, after retiring in 2007, now uses more than a quarter of a century’s experience teaching others. And with 282 contests (of which 229 were wins), two years in the Czech national team and a raft of belts, he’s the man to turn to if you’re in the Tunbridge Wells area and fancy donning a pair of gloves. “I believe boxing is one of the best forms


of exercise for the whole body. It has so many benefits – and it burns the most calories per hour,” says Tommy, who is based at the town’s Halo Gym.


“My clients say the mental focus means it completely distracts them from day-to-day stresses and clears the mind so it’s not just the obvious physical benefits they love but the mental stimulation too. You have to be completely ‘in the moment’ so it’s fantastic for de-stressing.


“And boxing is for everyone. Whoever you


are outside the ring is irrelevant once inside. I’ve met amazing men and women from all walks of life,” adds Tommy, whose clients include former England ladies’ champion Jamie


David Leck


Johnson who has also fought in the US and sparred with Laila Ali, ’s daughter.


Community focus


If you want an example of how a boxing gym can be integral to the fabric of a local community then spend some time at Swanley Amateur Boxing Club (SABC). Established 40 years ago, it serves as an important focal point for many regardless of age, gender or if they roll-up to get fit or are working towards securing a place on a fight card. SABC trainer Ricky Chaplin echoes boxing’s


numerous benefits and the breadth of people who simply love the feeling of “getting on the pads”. “Of course, we cater for young males you’d traditionally expect to see in a boxing gym but we’re about so much more,” says Ricky, who gives voluntarily of his time to promote a sport he’s been passionate about since a boy. “We have people who fight but we also have sessions for children and ladies. One of the most rewarding things is seeing a seven or eight-year-old being brought along by a parent for the first time when they’d rather be at home on an iPad and, then within a few months, they improve and become hooked. But it’s not just


© Sport England


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