Boxing is a sport of complexity, intensity and potential danger. With this in mind, you’ve got to be prepared: here’s all the essentials you’ll need before you step foot inside a boxing gym.

People often decide to learn boxing for a number of different reasons: from learning to box to enter competitions, to building their self-confidence, losing weight, to being part of a club and a community. Young boys might join a boxing club to find role models, or to learn how to control their anger, whilst women might find empowerment in holding their own against an aggressor. Others might have aspirations of becoming a world champion, in the amateurs or the professional ranks. These goals are not exclusive to gender, age or experience and many find that the initial reason they decide to try boxing is not the reason they continue boxing. However, it can be important to consider these reasons before starting as it will be key to ensuring you find the best boxing club for you to learn or continue your fighting career.