Do you want to beat your fear of getting hit in boxing?
Do you flinch when your opponent starts throwing punches?
If you answered yes, keep reading and beat your fear of getting hit!
How To Beat Your Fear Of Getting Hit
To beat your fear of getting hit in boxing:
- Drill The Double-End Bag And The Speed Bag
- Shape Your Mouthpiece
- Play Shoulder Tag
- Shadowbox With Mental Visualization
- Spar More
Drill The Double-End Bag And The Speed Bag
One way to beat your fear of getting hit is to hit the double-end bag and use the speed bag.
With a double-end bag, give it a hard punch and watch it fly back and forth. Next, get closer and look at the bag without flinching. If you do get hit in the face by the bag, you’ll learn that it doesn’t hurt.
On the speed bag, keeping the bag close to your face at eye level will train you to focus and not to blink.
These are great ways to train yourself to relax and not blink when an opponent is throwing jabs.
We think that training the eyes for boxing is one of the hardest things for a beginner to do; once you get this down, boxing becomes much more fun.
Watch the video below to see the basics of using the double-end bag!
Shape Your Mouthpiece
Another way to beat your fear of getting hit is to shape your mouthpiece.
A well-fitted mouthpiece will protect your teeth and jaw.
This is important because you shouldn’t be worrying about your face or teeth while boxing.
Sometimes boxers choose to take a jab to the face because it creates the perfect opportunity for a counterattack.
Using a good mouthpiece will also make it easier for you to breathe, which will help you relax in the ring.
Play Shoulder Tag
Next, if you feel uncomfortable facing an opponent in the ring, play shoulder tag with a partner.
This is a simple game where two people face each other and try to touch their opponent’s shoulders while dodging attacks at the same time.
This is great for understanding your range and increasing your reaction time.
In general, all partner drills for boxing will help you get used to being in front of another fighter and standing your ground.
Watch the video below to see it in action!
Shadowbox With Mental Visualization
Next, another way to beat your fear of getting hit is to shadowbox with mental visualization.
Mental visualization is important because you can only do what you are trained to do.
Go slow and try these:
- Imagine jabs coming towards you and then slip them.
- Hooks aimed at your head and then roll under the punch.
- Stepping in and out of your imagined opponent’s range.
You’ll be prepared for the real situations by doing these.
Watch the video below to see a young Ryan Garcia preach this message!
Spar More
Lastly, the best way to beat your fear of getting hit is to spar more.
Find a sparring partner you trust and that recognizes your level.
Start slow and smooth; you can always go fast later.
Focus on the basics: relaxed breathing, no flinching, and no curling up into a ball.
Next, do your best to focus on your opponent’s shoulder line, as this will help you predict his punches and movements.
Once you get that down, focus on basic techniques like the throwing a jab or slipping a punch.
Afterwards, talk with your partner after a bad first spar about each other’s goals and progress. This communication will go a long way.
Where Should You Go From Here?
As a boxer, getting hit in the face is unavoidable.
Even if you follow these five tips now, it will take time for you to beat your fear of getting hit.
Now you feel fear. Next, you’ll feel curiosity. (“Let me try that feint to the body!”)
With each drill and spar, you’ll gain a little confidence that adds up in the long run.
Lastly, be kind to yourself; this fear is natural!
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