Shadow boxing, along with static and dynamic stretching, typically starts a full hour boxing workout. This prepares the muscles for more physical activity. While practicing shadow boxing, most boxers want to look at themselves in the mirror. This is the time to check “if you look pretty” because if not, you must be doing something wrong.
For some, this drill is a time to talk to a partner or coach. Others tend to have flat feet, so they can’t warm up their lower body muscles. Some throw limited hits while on the other hand some throw multiple. But very few think/or have ever thought of it as a test of their will.
Yes, shadow boxing is a good test of will. It’s because the shadow boxer has control over his shadow boxing performance. It’s a question of how am I going to execute the shadow boxing exercise — the answers are limitless.
Shadow boxing can…
1. Teach focus: the concept of visualization can be applied. The boxer must think that he is performing well in training or in the ring. Imagination is a free benefit, why not use it?
2. Separate the “men from the boys”: will you do 2 mediocre rounds or will you stand out from the rest and do your best? If you don’t have the heart to do your best, you might as well reexamine your life.
3. Improve your skills: In boxing training, it’s all about getting better. Improving this exercise will develop the ability to learn new things.
4. Making you look “pretty”: Proper boxing form is a beauty. This can be a motivation to do well. Aim to look pretty there — that means you’ve improved your overall skill level.
5. Improve conditioning: This activity, when done with intensity, is excellent for cardiovascular exercise. Tuck in your stomach and it becomes a good basic job. Use your hand weights and throw heavy punches to improve your strength. Throw fast combos and you will improve your speed.
6. TEST YOUR WILL: The first 5 points are some of the benefits of this exercise. Striving for excellence in whatever you do makes you a champion. Muhammad Ali said it best: “I hated every minute of training, but I said, don’t give up. He suffers now and lives the rest of your life as a CHAMPION.”
You have control over your rounds. Will you move on or just remain ordinary? He left it to you.
Shadow boxing tips:
1. Train for Form – Proper body mechanics and form are important to developing effective power, speed, and skill. Don’t rush — practice the exercises you’re struggling with and maximize your strengths.
2. Train for Strength: Throw hard punches with your 2-pound hand weights. After 2 minutes, drop the hand weights and shadow box without it for 1 minute — see the big difference.
3. Train for conditioning- Get moving. Do a lot of things there. Don’t forget your own breathing. Throw lots of combinations — add various things to your boxing arsenal. Use your legs!
4. Train the core: famous boxing quote — “No abs, no legs. No legs, no fight.” Core strength and conditioning are important. Improve your balance and body mechanics through this.
5. Train YOUR WILL: The 4 tips above will not be enough motivation if the mind is not willing. You have to have the will to improve yourself — train like a champion!
Everything we do in boxing training has a purpose. Now you know the benefits and importance of shadow boxing. ‘Until then, see you at training!
