Introduction
Boxing is a very physique-demanding sport. A boxer must have a good physique, fit, and stamina to be successful in the sport. Sometimes the fight outcome could be decided by the boxer with more energy in the later rounds.
We can look for an example of undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr (50-0). There is evidence that he used to work out three to four times a day, and the people surrounding him said that he had the toughest workout regimen they had ever seen among boxers from all eras, which was a massive part of his success in the ring.
Here we will review the factors that affect a boxer’s fitness and mental health, body, and build.
Nutrition
Nutrition is one of the most important components in building a boxer’s body. A boxer needs a strict diet that supports his training and helps him maintain energy levels. The food a boxer eats affects his state of mind, training, and overall well-being. It’s important for a boxer to eat healthy full of minerals and vitamins food.
Here is a list of good healthy food for athletes as well as boxers:
- Lean protein – Helps build and repair muscle tissues. Food such as chicken, turkey, fish, lean cuts of beef and pork, eggs, beans, and soybeans are all great sources of lean protein.
- Whole grains – Are a good carbohydrate and an excellent source of energy for boxers. Food such as Brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole-wheat bread are great sources of energy.
- Vegetables – For essential vitamins and minerals, are also a good source of fiber. Boxers should eat various vegetables, such as carrots, avocados, peppers, tomatoes, etc.
- Nuts and seeds – For a good source of healthy fats which provide long-lasting energy. Food such as Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, etc.
- Hydration – Water is critical for boxers. They should drink enough water all day to keep their body cool and prevent dehydration during intense training, sparring, and fights.
Tip for a boxing pre-workout, coffee is a good source of quick caffeine pump before a workout. Avoid energy drinks because they are full of sugar and the opposite of healthy.
Training
A boxer’s physique is affected by the quality of his workouts. A boxer usually divides his week and days into several workouts for cardio, strength and conditioning, and technique.
- A strength and conditioning workout helps the boxer build his power and explosiveness in the ring and the shape and growth of his muscles. If you are a beginner, check our strength exercises for beginners.
- Cardio workouts help the boxer build endurance, stamina, and the shape and fit of the body.
- Technique training helps the boxer sharpen his boxing skills and maintain a phenomenal body shape (because technique training is also a kind of aerobic training), for example, heavy bag workouts, footwork workouts, etc.
Sleep
A boxer must have a good sleep during the night. It helps with the recovery of the muscles and tissues, the preparation for the next training day, and the ability to focus. Thus, It’s crucial for the health of the muscles and the mind
Hard work and dedication
As Floyd Mayweather Jr. shouts in his trainings, “Hard work, dedication”, nothing is achievable without it. One of the most important characteristics that are required to achieve the boxer’s body is to be able to work hard on your training, push yourself to the limits, and be persistent and dedicated to achieving it.
By constantly working on yourself, believing, and not quitting, you will achieve it.
Mental health
Mental health is crucial for the functioning of a boxer. It affects his entire routine, body, and overall health. It’s important to maintain mental health and reach for help when needed.
Here are some tips for maintaining mental health for a boxer:
- Practicing stress-management techniques: Boxer may experience stress from various different sources such as training, competition, or personal life. Practicing deep breathing, meditation, and ice tubs helps manage stress dramatically.
- Take breaks when needed: Don’t overburn yourself. It may cause more problems in the future, so learn how to take breaks and not push the paddle too hard.
- Set some goals: Setting goals will build your confidence and motivate you. Set challengeable but achievable goals, and celebrate as you pass through them.
- Seek professional help: If you are struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional health. A mental help professional can provide support, guidance, and treatment.
- Stay connected with your loved ones: Social support is crucial for mental health. Stay connected with your family and friends, and be open about your concerns and challenges.
Resting
Resting is as important as the actual training. Resting will allow the muscles and more tissues to rebuild themselves and give you the energy you need for the next workout. In other words, resting between workouts will allow the body to shape itself properly.
Genes
Genes can often increase the body shape and affect a human physique. It is not in the person’s capability to know his body’s potential until he tries to reach his body goal. Human body genes are a factor when trying to reach a boxer’s physique, but only a minor one but still worth mentioning.
Summary
Building a boxer physique requires way more than just working out. It’s a journey by itself, and that’s why it’s called a boxer’s physique. Each component of a boxer’s physique is as important as the other, and none should be neglected. Remember that achieving a boxer’s physique is the “easy” part while maintaining it requires more will and strength.
