Starting in sports is relatively simple and more affordable than boxing. Therefore, it is okay to have a lot of expensive equipment, at least not when starting. But, before you become a regular in the ring, there are a few items of basic boxing equipment you will need to have to ensure that you are protected and training at your best. Those pieces of equipment include:
Several people, both newcomers to boxing and seasoned professionals, may try to convince you that you require the most cutting-edge equipment to face your next challenger. It could not be further from the truth, which is excellent news for your wallet.
Regarding boxing equipment for beginners, protection and conditioning are the two most important considerations. If you already own some boxing apparel (normal workout shorts, t-shirts, and so on), the few things you will need to buy should only set you back up to a few pounds, and you’ll be ring-ready in no time at all.
Beginning a boxing routine is simple and doesn’t require a lot of money. Protection is the primary focus of boxing equipment designed for beginners and professionals. If you already own some boxing attire, such as classic workout shorts, t-shirts, etc., the additional boxing gear you will need to acquire will not cost too much, and you will be ready to go into the ring in no time.
Many beginning boxers and even some professionals will tell you that to compete in the ring, you need to have the most cutting-edge equipment possible. Before becoming a regular at the boxing gym, though, you need a few key items of boxing equipment.
The Essential Equipment For Boxing Beginners
Boxing Equipment for Beginners
Whether you plan to train with or without a partner will determine the type of boxing equipment necessary for your workouts. If you want a higher quality workout or want to compete, you will likely engage in both of these activities.
You will need a skipping rope, hand wraps, bag gloves, and a heavy bag to train in boxing fundamentals with a heavy bag (if you do not have a training partner). Headgear, a mouth guard, sparring gloves, and a groin or chest protector are all essential equipment for training with a partner.
Even though it doesn’t sound all that difficult, this is the bare minimum of the materials you’ll need. You would want to think about several different alternatives, and it goes without saying that you wouldn’t want to pick the improper mouth guard or groin protector. To get you started on the right foot, we’ll point you toward some of the boxing equipment most suitable for novices.
Boxing Gloves
The question of whether boxing gloves are best for beginners has generated a lot of discussions, and a lot of information is available on the subject. However, for brevity, two types of boxing gloves are appropriate for beginners: bag gloves, also known as training gloves, and competition gloves, also known as sparring gloves.
You should purchase a high-quality set of bag gloves. As these are designed to protect your hands while you punch a heavy bag, you must take time to purchase them; otherwise, you will have to replace them after only a few weeks. The Bytomic Performer 3.0 Carbon Boxing Gloves are an excellent choice for those concerned about the price. However, they are an excellent choice for novices because of how incredibly lightweight and comfy they are.
Hand Wraps
Hand wraps are essential if you want to safeguard your wrists and the numerous delicate bones that make up your hands (you do). If you are throwing hard punches, having your hands wrapped in hand wraps will protect your knuckles and keep your wrists from spraining or breaking as a result of the force of your blows.
Also, they are an excellent choice for preserving the longevity of your boxing gloves. Wraps prevent sweat and blood from dripping into your gloves, which would otherwise occur naturally.
Hand wraps can be found in a wide variety of sizes and designs. Longer styles allow you to wrap your hands in various ways, such as the between-the-fingers method and the basic method.
Hand wraps in the Mexican style, such as the Bytomic Heavy Duty Wraps, are yet another alternative. The Twins CH-2 Premium Hand Wraps, for example, offer sufficient length to allow you to wrap your hands in various configurations thanks to their versatility. In addition, they have a little stretch to them, allowing them to form a more secure wrap around your hands.
Finally, the Venum Kontact Gel Gloves Wraps are a fantastic solution for novices and come highly recommended. Because these “wraps” slide over your hands, you don’t need to master a particular wrapping technique to use them; instead, you can slide them on and get moving. In addition to that, you can engage in grappling, mild sparring, or speed bag exercises with them.
Boxing Heavy Bag
If you plan on performing your boxing regimen in the comfort of your home, you must invest in a heavy bag. On the other hand, if you want to train within the confines of the gym, there is no reason to invest in a heavy bag. On the other hand, when you come home, there’s nothing quite as therapeutic as engaging in a fisticuff match with your significant other.
When it comes to heavy bags, there are many different alternatives available; nonetheless, the essential characteristics of these bags are that they weigh approximately 70 pounds, are packed with either hard or soft fill, and are made of vinyl, leather, or canvas. In addition, they come with a mount that can be attached to a stand or your ceiling so that you can see them there.
When you throw a forceful punch, a heavier bag will prevent the bag from swinging too much because of the additional weight. Therefore, it makes a heavier bag superior to a lighter bag.
Century produces one of the greatest heavy bags available, and its use is recommended for both amateurs and professionals. The Hydrocore Handing Bag is constructed out of high-quality vinyl, ensuring that it will not rip or split even after years of misuse. In addition to this, it is not stuffed with foam but rather water, which allows you to adjust how firm it is.
Boxing Headgear
To engage in live sparring, having high-quality boxing headgear is necessary. Because of this, you must select something resilient since it will be subjected to many blows. Even though headgear protects you from things like cuts and scrapes, it won’t stop someone from punching you in the head repeatedly.
Even while wearing protective headgear, it is possible to lose consciousness, sustain a concussion, or suffer another injury linked to the head. It will soften the damage somewhat, but not nearly enough to protect someone from getting hurt if they take multiple hits.
When it comes to boxing headgear, a wide variety of styles are available. These range from being very discreet to exposing only your eyes. If you want to protect more delicate areas of your head, such as your cheeks, chin, and ears, from injury, a good boxing headgear option for you to consider is the Ringside.
The Venum Elite Iron Headgear is another option, protecting the entire face. In addition, because of the laces, it won’t move around, and it won’t get in the way of your vision when you’re punching or kicking.
Boxing Mouth Guard
In addition to boxing gloves, a mouth guard is the most important piece of boxing equipment for novice boxers. When you are sparring, wearing a mouth guard will protect your teeth from being knocked out and prevent a jab to the face from causing your lips to split apart.
Even though you can acquire a decent boil and form boxing mouth guard for about two pounds, the amazing product that the Shock Doctor creates costs a bit more money but will fit more comfortably and endure for longer. The V1.5 model realigns your jar after it has been struck to lessen the damage to your brain due to the impact.
Groin and Chest Protectors
A requirement if you intend to engage in any form of sparring. It is a crucial piece of boxing equipment for novices and more experienced boxers because no one wants to get hit in sensitive areas. A fantastic solution from Shock Doctor is available that is reasonable but does the job effectively.
Chest protectors are an essential piece of equipment for women. Because the protective material on the Bytomic Maxi-Guard Sports Vest can be removed, this vest is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a piece of workout apparel that can serve multiple purposes. You can wear it as a sports bra.
Boxing Shoes
We left footwear till last because it is ultimately up to you to determine whether or not you will purchase a pair of boxing boots. It’s okay to have them for beginners, especially if you won’t engage in ring fighting. Yet, if you want to show up to the fight looking like the greatest of them, it might be worth the money for you to get the best gear possible.
Boxing boots manufactured by Nike feature a pretty gold-detailed design, and the shoes are a great weight and provide an excellent grip.
Best Boxing Equipment for Beginners
Boxing Equipment for Beginners
Whether you plan to train with or without a partner will determine how important it is to have boxing equipment. Whether you want to compete or get a better workout, it would be best to accomplish both. However, the prerequisites for each are quite distinct from one another.
For example, you will need mouth protection, a skipping rope, hand wraps, gloves, and a heavy bag if you train essential with a heavy bag on your own rather than with a partner. If you are training with a partner, however, you must have protective gear such as a helmet, a mouth guard, sparring gloves, a groin guard or chest protector, and other vital equipment.
In addition to the gear that was just described, there are a few other things you might want to consider, and you do not want to select the inappropriate groin protector or mouth guard. To get you ready to step into the boxing ring, we will point you in the direction of some of the boxing equipment most suitable for novices.
Boxing Gloves
Boxing gloves are a required piece of equipment before you can begin the sport. However, the topic of boxing gloves can be rather tough, both for novices and experienced fighters. Therefore, it is important to understand the differences between two distinct types of boxing gloves: beginner’s bag gloves (training gloves) and competitive or sparring gloves, to keep this discussion moving along.
Bag gloves, also known as training gloves, are designed to shield your hands from the impact of hitting a heavy bag. If you choose the cheapest option, you must purchase a new pair of shoes sooner rather than later. Boxing gloves are ideal for novice boxers because of their low weight and high comfort level. Boxing is a contact sport. I hope you decide to purchase a quality set of bag gloves.
Hand Wraps
Hand wraps are the second most important piece of boxing equipment after boxing gloves. Hand wraps offer protection not only to the delicate bones in your hands but also to your wrists. While punching a heavy bag, if you properly wrap them, they will cushion your knuckles and prevent a strain on your wrist. In addition, it will allow you to continue training.
Hand wraps also help your gloves last longer, absorbing sweat and blood that would otherwise drip into them. In addition, it keeps your gloves cleaner for longer. A wide selection of hand wraps is available, each with a different selection of designs and sizes.
The increased length of some styles of hand wraps makes it possible to tie them around your hand in various configurations. Wraps for Gel Gloves are designed to slide over the hands, eliminating the need for a particularly precise wrapping technique. Put them on, and you will be ready for the competition.
Boxing Heavy Bag
If you want to practice boxing in the comfort of your home, the only piece of boxing equipment you need is a heavy bag. These boxing gloves come with various customisation options, such as the substance. They weigh 70 pounds and can be stuffed with either tough or pliable material. Vinyl, leather, or canvas predominate among their materials of construction. They typically come with either a pedestal or a mount that can be hung from your ceiling.
You should go for a heavier bag rather than a lighter one because it will prevent the bag from moving around too much when you throw a strong punch. The Hydro Core Handing Bag is considered one of the best heavy punching bags for beginners and one of the best heavy punching bags for professionals. Because this bag is constructed of high-quality vinyl, it is resistant to tearing and breaking even after years of use. In addition, the filling is water rather than foam to achieve the desired level of stiffness.
Boxing Headgear
Boxing headgear is required if you intend to engage in live sparring with other boxers. You are going to take a lot of knocks. Therefore you must pick something that can keep going. You will only be protected from cuts and scrapes; repeated blows to the head will not be able to harm you in any way. It will lessen the severity of some of the shocks but not to the extent that it will avoid injuries caused by repeated blows.
The market is stocked with a wide variety of headwear options. If you want to protect your face and more sensitive areas like your cheeks, chin, and ears from damage, one of the many options for headgear that range from minimal to simply displaying your eyes is a good choice for you to consider.
Mouth Guard
In addition to boxing gloves, the mouth guard is another piece of boxing equipment crucial for beginners. A mouth guard will prevent your teeth from being knocked out and your lips pierced open if you take a shot to the face during sparring.
It will also protect your teeth from being knocked out accidentally. Although you can purchase an attired swelling from a boxing mouth guard for approximately two pounds, the blow doctor offers a wonderful product that is a little more expensive but fits more comfortably and lasts longer.
Groin And Chest Protectors
You must have a groin guard and chest protector to engage in free sparring. Their building was accomplished with vigour and consistency by Shock Doctor. Groin guards and chest protection substantially padded with EVA and thick foam lamination are excellent choices for the material’s protective layer. This boxing equipment guarantees against breakage and provides optimum protection in every circumstance. It is designed specifically for novices.
Boxing shoes
Boxing shoes are the final piece of boxing equipment, and whether or not you decide to purchase them is ultimately up to you. Boxing gloves are the first piece of boxing equipment. They are optional for beginners, particularly when the battle occurs outside the ring. A few manufacturers make boxing shoes with great details, significant weight, and superb grip.
What Equipment Do You Need to Start Boxing?
FIND A SPACE FOR YOUR BOXING TRAINING
First things first: before we get to punching bags and hand protection (hand wraps and gloves), you need to evaluate the space in your home where some boxing equipment would fit best and where you will have the most room to move around when you are working out your boxing moves.
When first learning the fundamental footwork patterns and steps, it is helpful to use a non-slip mat or mats, and you can find a variety of these mats for sale on the internet. Materials like carpets and hardwood floors are sometimes the finest options for training. Adding this beginner boxing equipment to your workout routine will help you take your boxing training to the next level.
If you have decided that learning how to box is your personal goal, you should look into purchasing the boxing equipment for the home that will assist you in achieving this objective once you have made this decision.
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO YOU NEED TO START BOXING?
Boxing Hand Wraps
- Offers protection for the wrist and adds a first layer of padding to the knuckles.
Boxing Gloves
- You will be provided with the highest possible level of safety protection so that you may learn to hit like a pro.
Punching Bag
- You can relieve the tension of the day by hitting a mannequin or another object that mimics the human body (and you won’t damage your friend in the process!)
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT BOXING HAND WRAPS CALLED?
Tape and Gauze:
- Advantages: These wraps are the lightest in weight while providing the most protection and come in various sizes.
- Cons: They aren’t reusable, wrapping them takes a long time, and you need to do a better job yourself.
Traditional hand wraps:
- The advantages include low cost, reusability, and an easy learning curve for wrapping oneself.
- Cons: There are predetermined sizes, which can become loose, adding to the amount of laundry you must do.
Elasticated ‘Mexican’ style hand wraps:
- The glove moulds itself to the shape of the hand, doesn’t loosen up and allows air to circulate.
- Cons: They are typically more substantial, which means more laundry for you!
FightCamp Quick Wraps:
- Advantages: They do not require hand wrapping, as they are worn like a glove, and they are designed to retain FightCamp punch trackers in place securely.
- Cons: If you are used to traditional hand wraps, you might not like the way these feel because the cloth needs to be wrapped between the fingers.
WHAT TYPE OF BOXING GLOVES SHOULD I GET?
Heavy Bag Gloves (non-moulded thumb):
- Lightweight, compact, and easy to transport are some positive aspects.
- Con: There is no protection for the thumb. Therefore overall, there is less.
Boxing Training Gloves (moulded thumb)
- The advantages are complete protection, low cost, and a wide selection of styles.
- Cons: Low-priced materials that wear out quickly and a cumbersome design.
Competition Boxing Gloves (moulded thumb)
- The finest protection, quality, and materials utilised in manufacture are all featured as positives.
- Negatives: It’s expensive, you don’t need it for your regular exercises in the bag, and it’s a pain to bring around.
WHAT IS THE BEST PUNCHING BAG FOR BEGINNERS?
Hanging Punching Bag
- The pros include a more dynamic experience, which professionals use the most, and it is fantastic for footwork.
- Cons: This installation requires a lot of upkeep and a larger area, and it cannot be moved once it is in place.
Two varieties of hanging bags are a standard short boxing bag or a ‘banana’ bag. You may practice low kickboxing kicks on banana bags since they are longer and thinner than traditional punching bags. The regular short boxing bags are dense and can only accommodate medium to high levels of kicking practice.
Free Standing Punching Bag
- These advantages are that they do not require as much installation, are mobile, and may be less expensive.
- Cons: They can roam around while working out, cheaper models only last for a short time, and the activity has fewer dynamic components.
The community in which you practice is one of the best things boxing offers for your health. Discovering your people and being able to relate to them deeply and meaningfully is critical for maintaining good mental and emotional health.
The ability to make progress is one of the many wonderful benefits that come from making a connection with your passion and working hard to achieve your goals.
WHAT EQUIPMENT CAN IMPROVE MY BOXING SKILLS TO THE NEXT LEVEL?
Punch Mitts
These punch mitts are easily transportable, so you may use them in the park, at home, or anywhere else you don’t have access to your punching bag. If you have a training partner, this is a great option.
Boxing Fitness Trackers
Wearable technology can significantly improve the comprehension of your workouts, which is why you should consider using it. Monitoring particular data points such as heart rate, intensity, and punching rate throughout a boxing workout. It allows you to recognise when you have reached your best and need to push yourself even further.
Apple Watch/Fitbit/Smart Watches
- These gadgets capture data about the user’s health, such as heart rate and the length of their workout, and then utilise algorithms to estimate the number of calories burned.
- They can be purchased for as little as $30 up to several hundred dollars for an Apple watch, and they come with a wide array of additional capabilities.
FightCamp Punch Trackers
- Real-time readings of your punch speed, count, and output will be presented during your training.
- Punch goals during the workout, post-workout recaps, and progression of performance over time
- Participate in head-to-head competitions on the leaderboard against members of the FightCamp community from all across the country or against yourself.
Boxing Equipment for Every Level: Our Expert Guide for the Perfect Gear
Boxing gloves
A good pair of gloves should support your wrist, guard your knuckles, and absorb part of the impact placed on your hands by your opponent. These are the characteristics that make it possible to have a lengthy career.
Beginners gloves
Determining which equipment is ideal for novices is a complex undertaking. It must have sufficient cushioning, superior wrist protection, and a reasonable price.
The fact is that most of the apparel and gear produced for this demographic is just trendy rubbish. It is normal to prioritise beauty over quality if you are not experienced. Yet, if you are experienced, you will likely prefer quality over appearance. Because of this, it might be challenging to locate quality items that are appropriate for first-timers to purchase.
Everlast’s “Pro Style” training gloves were formerly the most popular option, which is hilarious given the company’s name. But, quite some time ago, the quality began to deteriorate, and selecting this option is now not a good idea.
However, the company has since redeemed itself by releasing the Everlast Powerlock2, the consummate equipment for this demographic. It is perfect in every way that we could have hoped for.
Could I invest a bit more money and get a Top King instead? Absolutely, without a doubt. Yet, it cannot be denied that they did an excellent job with this model. Due to this, they have earned the title of the best boxing gloves for beginners.
How to choose the weight of the gloves?
The gloves are measured in ounces, which might be their weight or size (oz). A glove’s weight is a good indicator of its quality when it comes to padding. Therefore, the function of the gloves, as well as your weight, will both play a role in determining the optimal weight of the gloves.
Boxing gloves at least 2 ounces heavier than your regular fighting gloves should be used if you work vigorously on the punching bag or sparring. The piece of equipment that affords the greatest degree of protection to your hands while practising is the one that does so without restricting your mobility or exposing you to any risks.
Training gloves for Muay Thai fighters in Thailand are typically 16 ounces in size, regardless of the fighter’s weight. Nevertheless, many boxers engage in the practice. If you are excessively heavy, consider purchasing a pair of 18-ounce shoes.
Nevertheless, combat is a very different animal. You will still require some level of protection, but you should avoid excessively padding your hands not to squander any potential.
Boxing Headgear
Don’t try to save the world by being a hero; take precautions to protect your brain if you can. It is common knowledge that damage can build up over time and eventually result in sequela. Therefore, when you wear the greatest headgear, you essentially assure yourself that you can battle for longer.
The correct headwear protects your head, does not obscure your vision, and can be reliably fastened in place. Nothing is more frustrating than dealing with headgear that rotates on your head after each blow. You must concentrate on being able to battle effectively.
The most significant drawback of this situation is that increasing the amount of cushioning will typically increase in volume. Therefore, it might result in the formation of blind spots and a reduction in stability owing to torque. Because of this, the headgear you wear when you fight should differ from the one you wear when you practice sparring.
Headgear for beginners
When it comes to headgear for beginners, the more protective it is, the better. Yet, the Fairtex Super Sparring might be out of reach for the average consumer due to its high price. The Venum Challenger Headgear 2.0 is an excellent alternative to consider. I must admit that it is a really cumbersome piece of equipment; nonetheless, they have succeeded in designing it so that it maintains a high degree of visibility.
Conclusion
You will only need a little equipment to learn how to box, which is good news. However, you will require a venue to train, boxing gloves, boxing hand wraps, and a punching bag to get started with boxing.
Learning some basic motions in the air is an excellent place to start if you are starting with the sweet science. Yet boxing is a contact sport, so getting to strike objects immediately is crucial. It is important not only for understanding what it is like to box for real but also because it is an excellent method to relieve tension!
Frequenly Asked Questions
How often should beginners train in boxing?
How often should beginners train in boxing?
The frequency of training sessions for beginners in boxing depends on various factors, including fitness level, goals, and recovery ability. Here are some general recommendations:
- Consistency: Consistency is key in boxing. It is better to train regularly with shorter sessions than to have infrequent long sessions. Aim for a minimum of two to three training sessions per week.
- Progression: As a beginner, gradually increase your training frequency over time. Start with two sessions per week and progressively add more as your fitness and skills improve.
- Recovery: Allow sufficient time for rest and recovery between training sessions. This helps prevent overtraining and reduces the risk of injuries. Listen to your body and take rest days as needed.
- Balanced training: In addition to boxing technique training, including strength and conditioning exercises, cardio workouts, and flexibility training to develop a well-rounded fitness base.
- Quality over quantity: Focus on the quality of your training sessions rather than solely on the quantity. Give your best effort, stay attentive to technique, and seek guidance from trainers to maximize your progress.
How do beginners clean and maintain their boxing equipment?
How do beginners clean and maintain their boxing equipment?
Proper cleaning and maintenance of boxing equipment are essential for hygiene, longevity, and performance. Here are some general guidelines for beginners:
- Boxing gloves: After each training session, wipe the inside and outside of your gloves with a clean cloth to remove sweat and moisture. Avoid storing them in damp places to prevent odour and bacteria growth. Periodically, you can use glove deodorizers or baking soda to minimize any odour.
- Hand wraps: Hand wraps should be washed regularly to maintain hygiene. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing, or hand wash them with mild detergent and air dry them thoroughly.
- Mouthguard: Rinse your mouthguard with cool water after each use. Regularly clean it with a toothbrush and mild soap. Store it in a clean, ventilated case to avoid contamination.
- Jump rope: Jump ropes generally require minimal maintenance. Keep them clean by wiping them with a damp cloth after each use. Check the condition of the rope regularly and replace it if it becomes frayed or damaged.
- Heavy bag: Clean the heavy bag surface periodically with a mild disinfectant or a mixture of water and vinegar. Inspect the bag for any signs of wear or tear and repair or replace it as needed.
Do beginners need boxing shoes?
Do beginners need boxing shoes?
Boxing shoes are specially designed footwear that provides specific advantages for boxing training and competition. While they are not an absolute necessity for beginners, they can offer several benefits:
- Footwork and agility: Boxing shoes are lightweight and have thin soles, which allow for better movement and quick pivots. They provide the necessary traction and support to maintain balance and agility in the ring.
- Ankle support: Boxing shoes are designed to provide adequate ankle support, which helps reduce the risk of sprains and other foot-related injuries. This is particularly important as beginners may not have developed strong ankle stability yet.
- Enhanced performance: The grip and traction offered by boxing shoes allow beginners to generate more power and maintain stability while executing punches and defensive movements. This can contribute to improved overall performance.
Should beginners use headgear during training?
Should beginners use headgear during training?
Headgear is protective equipment worn on the head during boxing training or sparring sessions. While its usage varies depending on personal preference and training goals, beginners often choose to use headgear for added safety. Here are some key considerations:
- Protection: Headgear can help absorb and distribute the impact of punches, reducing the risk of cuts, bruises, and concussions. It provides an additional layer of protection for beginners who are still developing their defensive skills.
- Sparring: If you plan to engage in sparring sessions, headgear becomes even more important. It helps cushion the blows and minimizes the chances of head injuries.
- Training intensity: Beginners who are just starting out with light training and focus on technique may not require headgear initially. However, as the intensity of training increases, it is advisable to use headgear to protect yourself.
What size boxing gloves should beginners use?
What size boxing gloves should beginners use?
Choosing the right size boxing gloves is crucial for comfort, protection, and performance. For beginners, the ideal glove size depends on their body weight:
- 8 oz to 12 oz: These lighter gloves are typically used in competitive bouts, but they may also be suitable for some smaller individuals or teenagers.
- 12 oz to 14 oz: Most beginners will find these glove sizes suitable for training purposes. They provide a good balance of protection and mobility.
- 14 oz to 16 oz: These larger gloves offer more padding and are recommended for individuals with larger body frames or those looking for extra hand protection.
It’s important to note that the above size recommendations are general guidelines, and personal preferences may vary. Trying on different sizes and consulting with trainers or experienced boxers can help beginners find the most suitable glove size.