INTRO TO SPARRING FAQ

Do I belong in the sparring class?

Most likely yes. You might not actually be ready to spar today, but we will get there together. The class is designed to prepare everyone to spar safely and at your own pace.

Am I at the right level to join the Intro to Sparring class?

  • You know what a boxing stance is

  • You can move around in your boxing stance

  • You know and can demonstrate what a jab, cross, hook, body shot are

  • You can follow along to the Intermediate class

  • You have at least 6 months of consistent boxing training

If you answered Yes to all of the above, you are at a sufficient level to participate in the Intro to Sparring sessions.

I really dislike getting hit.

We know this part can be intimidating, but the sparring class is designed to teach you to face that fear in a healthy and controlled manner, in a safe and nurturing environment. We teach techniques to mitigate the unpleasantness of getting hit, and show how invincible you really are.

I really dislike hitting other people.

Sparring isn't really about hitting other people. It's training to further develop your own boxing skills with a moving teammate. Punches are thrown with limited power, and to show our teammates where they can improve. Sparring should be considered as an activity for you to explore and play with all the boxing techniques you’ve learnt.

Sparring makes me really uncomfortable.

That’s totally fine! Some people hate it and discover that they love it. Some people can't wait to start and decide after the first punch "whoa this ain't for me at all". The lion's share of our work is to make boxing accessible at all levels and to everyone. Our other classes remain dedicated to this goal.

What kit is required to participate in the Intro to Sparring class?

  • Individual mouthguards (mandatory)

  • 16oz+ gloves (14oz gloves possible for smaller framed people, 60kgs and below)

  • Knockout will have multiple sets of gloves and headguards available to borrow in each class, if you don’t have your own

  • Groin guards/chest protectors can be worn if applicable (optional)

There is general guidance on kit on our website.

Why is it a 5 class-pack intro session to sparring? I’m not sure if I can commit.

The introduction to sparring program is designed so that we build upon principles and drills each week, and slowly getting you more comfortable to open sparring. At this time, we believe it is safer and more effective to deliver the program in this way.

What happens if I miss a week?

It is possible to miss a session but we encourage you to attend all classes and a refund won't be offered for missed classes. Coaches can also cover any material previously covered if you miss a session, and questions are always encouraged.

How do I know if I’m experienced enough to join the “drop-in” session?

  • You’ve participated in a white-collar training and bout before, or

  • You’re a graduate of the 5-week intro to sparring sessions, or

  • You have had regular boxing sparring practice before.

We reserve the right to turn people away if we think they are not experienced enough to join or able to participate in a safe manner. If you're not sure whether your experience is sufficient or not to join, please ask the Head Coach or Head of Boxing during a regular class.

Does sparring mean I'll compete?

No, participation in sparring is not a guarantee, nor is it a demand to compete. We encourage all our members to experience the full range of boxing, with sparring being an important pillar of boxing. Our priority remains providing a safe space for you to develop your boxing.

Does this mean the club will be all competition focused now?

No. Our primary goal will always be to focus on creating a safe community for all LGBTQ+ people. All other classes will keep to the same format at this point in time. Our sessions will always flex to the aspirations of our members.

Should I join the Intro to Sparring class?

If you’ve read this far, then the answer is probably Yes.