Boxing is a sport full of history and tradition, but it is also surrounded by prejudices, myths and misconceptions that have persisted over the years, but given the growth it has experienced, it is important to disprove them. Ready to read about a myth in boxing or two? Keep reading!
“Boxing is only for violent people”
This is one of the most common myths in boxing; many people say that this sport only attracts violent or aggressive people. But it is quite the opposite; it requires skill, strategy, and discipline. Boxers train hard to develop their technique, endurance, and speed. Furthermore, it promotes values such as respect, dedication, and teamwork, which is why it cannot be considered a “violent sport.”
In this sense, the Spanish trainer Jero García commented, “Boxing is not violent because it does not involve forcing the other person to fight.”
For his part, the former Iberian boxer Manolo Planas explained that people are the violent ones and not the sport: “Human beings are as they are, and sports like boxing or kickboxing, and any other combat sport, are not to blame for the existence being violent people. Most of the great boxers I know are quiet people. I always try to avoid fights myself because I don’t like them outside the ring,” Planas explained in an interview in the Faro de Vigo newspaper.
“Boxers lack intelligence”
Another much-mentioned myth in boxing states that boxers are just muscular athletes with no intelligence. In reality, boxing is a sport that requires a lot of mental skills. These athletes must be able to read and anticipate every move their opponent will make, adjust their strategy on the fly, and make quick decisions in the ring. Intelligence, as well as cunning, are essential to succeed in this discipline.
“Boxing is extremely dangerous”
Surely, you have already thought that boxing is a dangerous sport and, therefore, you had doubts about whether you should practice it, but this is one of the most recurring boxing myths. It is true that boxing is a contact sport and carries certain risks, but it is also important to note that many precautions are taken to ensure the athletes’ safety. Professional fights are carried out under strict rules. In turn, athletes must undergo exhaustive medical examinations before each fight. Believe it or not, in each one of them, coaches and referees are present to ensure the safety of the participants.
A study carried out by the United States National Security Council in 2011 explained that the discipline in question is not one of the most dangerous. The most dangerous sports for the body are cycling, basketball, and soccer, respectively. In this list, boxing occupies position number 26.
It is even a good sport for children because it allows them to build their discipline and character, raise self-esteem, free themselves from frustrations, and enhance self-defense.
Boxing is not dangerous; it must be practiced with the correct technique and by qualified professionals to avoid injuries or any harmful damage.
“The goal of boxing is to knock out the opponent”
Although the knockout is an exciting part of boxing, it is not the only purpose. This discipline is based on obtaining points, and boxers can win a fight by accumulating points throughout the rounds. Technique, precision, and defense are also important aspects of boxing, with many fights being decided by judges’ decisions rather than by knockouts.
“Boxing is only for men”
Boxing has historically been dominated by men, but in recent years, there has been a significant increase in women’s participation in the sport. Women’s boxing has gained popularity and recognition worldwide, which is why many talented women have demonstrated their skill in the ring. Being an aerobic sport, it provides significant benefits such as weight loss, toning muscles, strengthening bone mass, and the possibility of releasing tension, among other aspects that will allow them to be in good shape and feel good about themselves both physically and mentally. In this way, this discipline has made its way to the healthy world. For this reason, it is possible to find gyms specialized in Body Combat, Cardio Box, or Kickboxing.
As a curious fact, it is worth mentioning that the London 2012 Olympic Games was the first time women’s boxing was accepted as a competitive discipline, thus marking an important precedent within combat sports.
Today, it is an inclusive sport that can be practiced but also enjoyed by people of any gender.
“It is only for low-income people”
Previously, boxing was mainly practiced by people from the lower social classes, as it was seen as a simple opportunity to make money. However, today, everyone enjoys this sport, regardless of social status.
Full Summary
Boxing is much more than just violence or aggression; It requires skill, intelligence, and dedication. Anyone can learn it regardless of gender or social class. Once the truth behind boxing myths is understood, it is possible to appreciate its beauty and complexity better.
