And in This Corner

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.