And in This Corner

Marc Lichtenfeld

Some say that boxing is a dying sport. But boxing gyms are a thriving business.

Athletic clubs all over the country have added heavy bags, rings and other boxing gear, and new gyms primarily dedicated to the sweet science are popping up all over the place. In business for just two years, LA Boxing has signed its 53rd franchise in its 15th state.

Even the traditional old-school gyms are attracting blue- and white-collar clientele who simply love the workout, yet don't relish getting punched in the mouth in the process.

Boxing gyms range from beautiful modern facilities with the latest equipment to sparse, concrete sweatboxes. Some gyms offer a bevy of classes, while in others you may receive only the growled instructions of a grizzled trainer straight out of central casting (think Mickey in Rocky).

One aspect that some members find appealing is the opportunity to train alongside real boxers. While many gym goers have no aspiration to climb into the ring, they love the opportunity to pick up a pointer or two from a world champ.

Often, the pros are happy to talk with others in the gym -- just don't interrupt them in the middle of working out.

Willie Savannah, owner of Savannah's Boxing Club in Houston, Texas, says that when legendary boxer Evander Holyfield trains there, he stops to talk to everyone. "Evander is always going up to someone to give them a tip," Savannah chuckles.

His gym's clientele, of which only 15%-20% are not real boxers, also enjoy working out with lightweight champion Juan Diaz, who trains most mornings. Gustavo Rangel, a reporter who works out at Savannah's, loves the atmosphere. "There's a lot of energy here," he says. "I've done exercises I've never done in my life because I see other people doing them."

Bruce Silverglade, owner of Gleason's Gym in Brooklyn, N.Y., estimates that 60% of his members are not boxers.

Silverglade says people come for the excitement of being able to train next to the likes of heavyweight champ Oleg Maskaev or former welterweight champion Zab Judah.

"If you love basketball, you can't get near Madison Square Garden and work out with the Knicks," Silverglade explains. "But in boxing, you can hit the bag right next to the champion of the world." The fighters often chat, take pictures with and sign autographs for the other members.

Gym owners believe that once people realize the type of workout boxing training offers, they stick around. Simple workouts like jumping rope, hitting the heavy bag and stomach crunches can get a novice in shape quickly.

If you don't believe me, try shadow boxing (throwing punches in the air) for three minutes and see how tiring it is.

Boxers are usually the best conditioned athletes in the world, and training in that kind of environment tends to rub off on people.

A Brave New Ring

Punch Fitness in Deerfield Beach, Fla., is a good representative of the new wave of boxing gyms.

Clean and modern, Punch offers members the kind of gym environment they're used to, along with kick-butt classes (and the opportunity for a real butt kicking, if one is so inclined).

Members at Punch, 65% of whom are women, take boxing conditioning classes -- taught by former contender Kenny Lunkin -- along with others like cardio kickboxing and abs/kickboxing.

And while pounding the bag, don't be surprised to see junior welterweight champ Miguel Cotto or No. 1 heavyweight contender Sultan Ibragimov firing off combinations next to you.

Charles King of King's Gym in Oakland, Calif., marvels at how things have changed.

"Back in the day, you were either a fighter or not," he says. King remembers when white-collar clientele were afraid to come to a boxing gym, especially one located in a rough neighborhood. "Now they all come. Accountants, lawyers, they're all here."

King estimates that less than 10% of his members are bona fide boxers.

"A few get in the ring to spar, but most don't," he states.

While breaking a sweat at King's, you could find yourself watching Olympic gold medalist and professional prospect Andre Ward going through a similar routine.

Class in Session

Once you've realized that a boxing workout is a great way to get in shape, think about whether you want structured classes or access to trainers.

Classes usually come with the price of membership. Check out a class before you join, especially if you plan on being at the gym at a regular time.

Most owners will be happy to let you try it out, or even give you a week trial membership.

Don't be intimidated if you feel like a beginner in a class filled with what seems like future champions: The instructors are usually very willing to work with you to improve your form, and you'll be surprised how quickly you'll get it.

If you're looking for a personal trainer, be aware that not all of them are willing to work with you for a free initial trial.

(Regular sessions usually cost from about $25 to $75 per hour.)

Regardless, talk to them about their philosophy toward conditioning and clearly explain your goals.

If you are just looking to get fit, but the trainer thinks you want to get ready to spar, he will design a very different workout than the one you need.

No matter what, be prepared to be pushed hard. Most trainers also work with real fighters or are former boxers; they aren't used to coddling.

Essential Equipment

Another benefit to boxing is that the necessary gear is relatively inexpensive.

If you're going to do a boxing workout even once in a while, it pays to get your own equipment -- a gym's loaner gloves usually smell not so fresh, and the stink can stay on your hands even after washing.

Essentially, all you need are handwraps and gloves. I recommend Mexican-style handwraps, which are a little longer and spongier than standard wraps and offer your hands better protection. They run about $7 for a pair.

Have an employee or trainer at the gym show you the proper way to wrap your hands.

For bag and pad work, you want 12-ounce gloves.

Everlast (EVST Quote) is the most well known brand of gloves -- and deservedly so. Any pair around $30, however, should be sufficient.

	Float Like a Butterfly

A gym will also provide jump ropes, heavy bags and anything else that your workout requires.

Perhaps the best part about boxing gyms is that they offer a welcome sense of community. Because the sport and the workout are so grueling, gym members form a bond built on mutual respect, whether you're a top contender or just trying to drop a few pounds.

It is very common for many members (including those who are just there to work out) to support the real fighters from the gym and attend their bouts as a group.

Savannah's member Rangel agrees. "Everyone gets to know each other. It's like family."

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