WHAT TO EXPECT

We understand some people find attending their first boxing class anxiety provoking. This is why at Knockout we do our best to make it a fun and enjoyable experience. Read below to find out what to expect during your first boxing class at Knockout LGBTQ+ Boxing.

First things first, as you arrive at the venue, head to reception. The person at the desk will ask you what class you came to the Sobell Centre for. Tell them you are here for the boxing class. No need to say it is an LGBTQ+ boxing class, there is only one boxing class at this time and only one boxing studio.

Once you pass the gates, you can either head to the changing rooms and showers (left under the stairs) or to the boxing studio directly (up the stairs to the right). Changing rooms are gendered but also have individual changing cubicles and individual shower cubicles. The Sobell Centre has a trans-inclusive policy: members can use the whichever changing room best suits them. In addition, there are 3 completely separate private shower/changing rooms in the centre, but they require asking reception for the key. If you would like to use these cubicles but do not feel comfortable asking reception, head to the boxing gym and ask one of our committee members for assistance (click here to meet our Team). Some participants also prefer to change in the boxing gym, feeling more comfortable changing around other queer people.

In the boxing gym, introduce yourself to one of our coaches Don or Pierre. You can also just wait outside the room where they will come to find you. A member of the team will assist you with wrapping your hands and answer any questions you might have about the class. Hand wraps are provided to beginners by the club but we recommend getting your own if you start coming regularly (you can purchase them from the club). To warm up, you will be given a skipping rope and you will skip with everyone for a few minutes. The class will then be split between Foundation and Fundamentals of Boxing (suitable for beginners) and Mixed-Level. We recommend staying in the Foundation class for 6 to 8 weeks to learn the basic techniques required to enjoy the Mixed-Level class. During the class, you will be taught how to move, throw punches, guard and defend, on a bag or paired with another boxer. But don’t worry, these are non-contact classes: no one punches each other. We punch each other’s gloves or pads only.

At the end of the class, both groups get together for a circuit. For about 5minutes the whole group does conditioning exercises. A final sweat to get you boxer-fit!

Once the class is over, some people get changed in the room and others prefer going back to the changing rooms to change and/or shower.

Every class is followed by a small get-together at a local pub or a coffee shop, depending on the time of the day.

That’s it! If you had fun, please come back. Our club also organises regular social events (club nights, dinners, exhibitions, movies). If you want more information, ask someone from the team to add you to our WhatsApp.

See you soon!

Knockout Team