14/01/2018
Boxing clever?
How do we effectively nurture the leaders of the future? We might assume that they will naturally bubble to the surface. But what if there are many more with the potential who may never struggle through? In this article we hear about how ‘boxing’ is helping to deliver its aims through combining physical and mobility exercises, with brain based games.
What are the characteristics of effective leaders? HiitBoxx Studios identify passion and resilience as two key factors. They have been developing business leaders for a number of years using a variety of methods, particularly sport. And not just any sport! Boxing and combat sport have emerged as favourite methods of unlocking that passion. Here they explain how boxing can develop the mental and leadership capabilities of the youngsters.
Why boxing?
Boxing is an ideal vehicle for providing a development programme for children from a very young age. Firstly, it develops all of the necessary motor skills that are a pre-requisite for success in later life for a long healthy life and success in sport. Boxing can teach children resilience - a key attribute of leaders and develop a self-belief that anything is possible. This is essential so that children learn to embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and not a demonstration of a weakness.
The HiitBoxx Studios coaching method for boxing is based on a unique, sports science based approach called TVP (technique, variety and predictability) Concepts. This coaching method looks beyond the physical aspects of the sport. It creates a mentality of precision and clear focus, great attention to detail, a keenness to explore a variety of techniques and a culture of continuous learning.
A combination of physical and brain based work helps develop the desire to succeed and satisfy personal goals while demonstrating respect and consideration for others. Our approach provides practical experiences where children get the opportunity to develop decision-making and thinking skills that will assist them in all walks of life. By taking the children outside their comfort zones, in a controlled manner, children become more adept at preparing for the unknown and relish the challenge.
What do they do?
We concentrate on developing speed and agility, with the use of quick foot ladders and hurdles, in our training. To improve footwork we have specially designed footwork mats and use focus pads and punchbags during partner work.
Improving reaction is another important part of what we do. For this we use speedballs and floor ceiling balls. Our students engage in mind training through using punch and footwork patterns and creativity is developed using, believe it or not, punchbags.
A lot of the activities are based upon developing confidence and self-awareness and we can do this through using partners and simulations. We do use a boxing ring and activities in here help with space management.
Boxing is only one of the ways in which leadership skills are developed. Our classes are designed to deliver the following in children from the age of five:
1. Inner strength to cope with the challenges that lie ahead in later years
2. Positive mental attitude towards success
3. Self confidence and belief in achieving personal goals
4. Ability to function as part of a winning team
