One of the most popular ways to keep fit is boxing and the sport is included in all sorts of different training programmes, tailored to suit all fitness levels and abilities.
But it’s important to make sure that the right technique is maintained at all times in order to help prevent injuries, which can easily happen in a contact sport of this kind.
Aside from the more obvious potential injuries such as head or brain injuries, as well as those to the jaw and face, your shoulders, hands, wrists, legs, knees and ankles are all at risk when you box.
It is not uncommon to experience rotator cuff injuries, as well as joint sprains and soft tissue bruising, associated with repetition of impact. Your spine and ribs are also vulnerable, which is why it’s important to maintain core stability and ensure that your core is strong, helping to protect the spine while improving the power of your punch.
Although it is, of course, important to ensure you use the proper equipment when boxing to help prevent injuries from happening, it’s also essential to ensure that you’re boxing with the right form and technique.
When landing a punch, for example, make sure that the first two knuckles lead the action and don’t twist through the wrist. Another key point to remember is that you need to listen to your body. If you feel twinges or pain in your wrist and hand (or any other part of your body), perhaps step back from the training to allow your body to recover.
If you do feel as though you’ve done something and want it to be checked over before you step back into the ring, get in touch with Clear Physio, Maidenhead sports therapy specialists, to see how we can help.