Page 187 - Fighting Fit: Boxing, Workouts, Techniques, and Sparring

Last word: Alan Lachica on sparring

 Spar because you want to improve skills, have fun
and, of course, be successful.Your intent should
never be to hurt someone. It’s hard enough as it is.

 Realistic expectations of your performance are
important. Mistakes (many of them) will happen.
Reward your effort and correct technique.

 Get comfortable with the idea of getting hit and
hitting someone early on. It’s easier said than done!

 Get familiar with the ring (surface, ropes and size).

 Know the style you want to start with. It may
change according to your opponent, but try to stick
with it for a while.

 Make sure your partner knows the plan and pace
of your sparring workout.We recommend that begin-
ners spar in the 1/4 to 1/2 speed range.

 Establish a pace that benefits you. Don’t throw
punches carelessly — you’ll only punch yourself out.

 We recommend you jab and keep a good distance
from your opponent so that you can study him.
Notice his tendencies when you jab and feint (hand,
head and shoulder movements as if to punch). If your
opponent reacts with the same move two or three
times in a row, it’s probably a habit — then you can
capitalize on them.

 Stay under control and relaxed. Remember, there’s
no shame in stopping the action if you feel yourself
getting overwhelmed.

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