So you decided that you want to start boxing and already found a gym. That's a great start but if you're like me, you are probably wondering about what you should bring to your first session. I remember when I was preparing for my first boxing class; I remember spending a significant amount of time doing extensive research on boxing glove weight, types of mouthpieces, etc. Well, there's no need to worry, we'll go over the three essential items that you'll need to start your training ASAP.

Well, it's in the name, the first item on the list is also the most important item and it is a pair of 16oz boxing gloves. If you google boxing gloves, you'll most likely be presented with an overwhelming collection of boxing gloves from merchants. For a beginner, it is a lot of information to disseminate since merchants tend to place their products in several categories. To make the process as simple as possible, you can never go wrong with a pair of 16oz boxing gloves. These gloves are the most widely accepted gloves for training purposes. They offer good padding for your hands, decreasing the repetitive impact that your hands will endure. Another aspect to look out for is a Velcro wrist strap. There's no need to burden yourself with lace-up boxing gloves at this point; Velcro wrist straps are very easy to put on and take off. Usually, in most beginner classes, pad work is done in an interval training fashion, where partners take turns in holding pads. This will require you to take off your gloves and put them back on several times during your class. The last thing you want is to fiddle around with lace-up gloves during your precious rest time.

If you're looking for a pair of high-quality beginner friendly 16 oz boxing gloves check out Martialarts.Zone Martial Arts Equipment

 

If you've ever seen a Rocky movie, you'll remember seeing Rocky's trainers help him put on his hand wraps. Initially, I did not understand the need for using hand wraps because I thought boxing gloves provided enough support for your hands. All that changed after my first time using a heavy bag, my wrist caved, followed by moments of severe pain. If you want to avoid my unfortunate series of events, I highly recommend getting hand wraps for your first boxing class. For most beginners, wrist strength is an area of improvement. As you progress in your boxing journey you'll notice that your wrist strength will increase considerably, however for now please put on hand wraps, your hands will thank you.

When choosing your hand wraps, make sure that they are 120 inches in length. This will ensure that your knuckles and wrists get adequate support. If you're looking for pair of hand wraps check out Amazon: Everlast Professional Hand Wraps

You may initially question this item if you are not particularly interested in sparring but hear me out. Beginner-friendly classes and general boxing classes usually focus on basic drills. You'll most likely be going through conditioning exercises and pad work with an option to spar. Although sparring is completely optional in most gyms, instructors do like to live drills where your partner will be punching, bobbing, and waving in a very controlled manner. In those drills, it is a good idea to put on your mouthpiece since as a beginner it'll be your first time working with a partner in that capacity. If you are training with another beginner, chances are that they will not have adequate control of their techniques, which may result in accidental hits to your face. In those cases, a mouthpiece will be your friend. Not only that, if you plan on sparring in the future it is a good idea to get comfortable wearing a mouthpiece.

I hope this list helps you prepare for your first boxing class and fuel the fire of your boxing journey. Share your first-class experience by tagging us on Instagram or Facebook. We look forward to hearing from you.