Self Defense Training DVD's - How to Learn Self Defense Basics at Home , Thursday, March 25, 2010 at 3:14 AM, in

There is something to be said about learning from an expert no matter what field you're in. This is not to knock the barber in the neighborhood who teaches self defense classes on the side he is just trying to make a living. And when it comes to your self defense and the self defense and your loved ones you want to learn from the best there is.

We have assembled 24 self-defense DVDs put together by some of the best experts in the world. From learning the very basics of Jeet Kune Do (JKD) or 'streetfighting' to learning much more advanced skills from Army Delta Force and Navy Seal trainers we have you covered.

These training DVDs teach you everything from how to overcome tremendous odds when fighting more than one person or faced with a much larger opponent to disarming and disabling an armed attacker. Most of these self defense training DVDs are based on some type of martial art but require no special skills or training. They are equally good for men and women, seniors and kids.

I have always preached that basic self-defense tactics should be taught in elementary schools to are kids at early ages. That way as they grow older and continue to practice they will become proficient in how to defend themselves. And as strange as this may seem I have always thought that a family who learns these skills together as a family would form a stronger bond. But that is just me.

A Self Defense Course ought to be at the basis and foundation of any self defense strategy. On top of that comes knowing how to use and carrying self defense products.

So get off your couch get a little exercise learn something new today and learn how to defend yourself and your family. Who knows when the time will come for you to use this. Chances are it will come.

Street Fight , at 3:09 AM, in

Ever get really angry at somebody and start thinking about how good it would feel to give him a nice beat down, make him sorry for what he did? Or maybe you're a girl who would like to physically show another girl how you feel about her using your knuckles. You might fantasize about a clean punch to someone's face or maybe even kicking him when he's down, really letting him have it. Then you could stand over his downed, broken body, just to make extra clear what happens when someone messes with you. Perhaps you've actually acted on this impulse, or have at least seriously considered it. If you are, this article is here to tell you to pull your head out of your ass and realize that there's no real winners in a fight. You could argue this, it is sure, but also keep in mind that it is very likely YOU will be the one laying trampled and bleeding, wondering where all your street-tough kung-fu moves gleaned from years of watching fights in movies went.
Street fights are messy and always ugly. Unless you're defending yourself, you tend to look as bad as the guy who loses. Just look at some of the videos of real street fights on YouTube- people often go into the fight looking cocky and aggressive. These people also often get their asses whooped. When you are watching these videos, realize that THIS COULD BE YOU, humiliated and hurt in public. The only thing these videos should inspire in you is the realization that fighting of this kind is really kind of stupid.
Of course, this is not to say that martial arts are stupid- far from it. Martial arts can be a great discipline which conditions your body-mind-soul. The lessons contained in real martial arts are great life lessons. One thing you can learn from them is how to avoid stupid situations like the street fights you might see on the internet or elsewhere. If you live in an area in which you are likely to be physically attacked and can defend yourself (as opposed to being held up at gunpoint), you might want to check out self defense systems such as krav maga. It is important to keep in mind that it is basically always best to not fight, if you can walk away. Unless you feel that competitive fighting is your path, it is wise to embark upon study of any martial art with the intention to learn to defend yourself, but also to develop and grow in one of the most awesome ways we have.

3 Things to Keep in Mind When Sparring , Monday, March 22, 2010 at 7:20 PM, in

Are you looking to have all those great looking trophies and winner plaques on your shelves? Now you can! All you need to do is enter in a number of martial art tournaments and win them. However, let's back up a little we got a little ahead of ourselves because you might be asking yourself, how do you get there? The answer is found in one word: sparring. You must equip yourself with a great deal of sparring experience in training to find yourself on the winners podium with a medal or trophy. You need experience and skill and that is why sparring training is a must. Or, more accurately, proper sparring is a must.
We put together some ideas to squeeze the most out of your sparring, these are:
Let's establish something important at the outset: sparring is not fighting. Sparring is a drill designed to enhance your fighting skills. Like we have been told since we were kids it is not about winning or losing but how you approach it. It is about improvement. That means you need to curb your competitive spirit and approach sparring with an attitude centering on a positive learning experience.
If you are not in the higher belt ranks, you shouldn't be sparring without proper supervision from an instructor. In addition to having a knowledgeable eye presenting you with tips and pointers, there will be someone there to ensure the sparring session stays light and friendly.
It is imperative that you DO NOT spar without the proper sparring gear on. You can see professional fighters training without such equipment all the time. If you are training as a hobby or for an amateur tournament or competition, you will want to wear as much protective gear as possible. This includes head, chest, feet, hand, and groin protection. This this will eliminate the likely-hood of an injury and this gives you the opportunity to train more harder and safer.
Always keep intensity and physical contact levels low. You don't have to practice at 100% to sharpen your sparring skills. In fact, doing so is often self-defeating. You want to be able to assess your strengths and weaknesses in sparring while refining the areas you excel and enhancing (or avoiding) that are underdeveloped. It is very tough to do this when you are training with excessive contact or intensity and such heavy training should be limited. However, limited does NOT mean never. You will have to push yourself very hard to get to the same exertion point you will find in a competition. So, as a rule, limit the tough sparring sessions to 10% of your training time.
Spar according to the rules of the tournament you wish to enter. In this way you will have the tournament rules work in your advantage rather than working against you. It's imperative that you wear the same sparring gear while training that you will wear when in a competition. If you train in mixed martial arts shorts and shoes for martial arts then you are in a tournament that requires a uniform and doesn't allow shoes, you will feel very off when the tournament arrives. It is important to pick a sparring partner who can control their kicks and punches. You want someone who is safe, controlled, and non-competitive but still knows how to push you to improve. Aggressive sparring partners who are overly competitive should be avoided at all costs!

Tony Mills is the Chief Editor of online Content for The MMA Zone. Tony is an expert in the field of martial arts training and conditioning. To see more article and information on MMA Gear and Martial Arts Supplies please go to The MMA Zone.

A Short History of Aikido , at 7:11 PM, in

The name aikido is formed of three Japanese characters, normally romanised as ai, ki and do. They are frequently translated as meaning union, universal energy and way, so aikido may be translated as "the way to union with universal energy". An additional common interpretation of the characters is harmony, spirit and way, so aikido can also mean "the way of spiritual harmony". Both interpretations draw awareness to the fact that aikido's methods are designed to control an attacker by controlling and redirecting his or her energy rather than blocking it. An analogy is frequently made of the way in which a flexible willow bends with the storm whereas the stout oak may break when the wind blows too hard. (The Korean martial art frequently known as hapkido uses the exact same three characters: a few propose a historical link through Daito-ryu, the main foundation of aikido).
Morihei Ueshiba formulated aikido mostly from Daito-ryu aikijutsu, integrating training moves like those for the yari (spear), jo (a short quarterstaff), and perhaps also juken (bayonet). But perhaps the most powerful influence is that of the katana (sword). In lots of ways, an aikido practitioner moves as an empty handed swordsman. The aikido strikes shomenuchi and yokomenuchi come from weapon attacks, and resulting techniques likewise from weapon take-aways. Several schools of aikido do absolutely no weapons instruction whatsoever; others, such as Iwama Ryu usually invest substantial time with bokken (wooden sword), jo, and tanto (knife). In a few lines of aikido, all techniques can be performed with a sword as well as unarmed.
Aikido was brought to the West in 1951 to France by Minoru Mochizuki. It was introduced to the USA in 1953, the UK in 1955, to Australia in 1965 and to many other countries. Today there are many aikido dojos available to train at throughout the world.

Three Areas of Jiu Jitsu to Concentrate On , at 7:07 PM, in

If you enjoy grappling then you will end up competing in a BJJ tournament. But what moves are the techniques are best for tournaments and which should one concentrate on as a beginner?
I will give you a list first of what I have learned to concentrate on and then I'll tell you why. Understand first that this is what has worked for me, and this is defiantly not the first draft of the list. I learn something new from each tournament and then I learn to concentrate on it.
What Jiu Jitsu moves to concentrate on:
1. Takedowns
2. Proper positions and an escape from each position
3. A submission move from each position.
Why takedowns first? Because matches start standing up! Iif you aren't comfortable on your feet then you will probably start every match down two points and worse in a bad position.
Next positions and escapes. When I started BJJ, I tried learning only submissions. I had heard about how BJ Penn had practiced each move he learned hundreds of times before he learned the next move so that's what I did. I bought a grappling dummy and drilled the kimora, armbar, and chokes. And then I went to my first tournament and got caught in a triangle choke in less than 45 seconds!
The lesson I learned was position before submission! Learn positions first! So I started practicing the correct base in each position and focused on escapes from every position. That brings me to my next lesson learned.
At one of my next tournaments I got to the semi finals and went against a guy who scored a takedown on me and immediately went to north south position. I had never worked a north south escape so he just sat on top of me because he didn't know what to do either! I lost but I learned to practice an escape from every position! That way you at least have some idea of what to do.
In fact the first tournament I won, I used only stand up and guard passing (position escapes). Believe it or not these two techniques drilled heavily will allow for you to come out victorious in most beginner to intermediate tournaments.
Lastly, a lesson Jiu Jitsu moves has just recently learned. Learn a submission from every position. Why? Because winning by points wears you out! If you can submit someone in 2 minutes vice out pointing them in 5 minutes you won't be as tired for your next grappling match!

Amino Acid Products For a Boxing Training Program , at 7:03 PM, in

Amino acid products are becoming a very popular component of a boxing training program. Athletes of all shapes and sizes can make use of amino acids because they provide a huge range of benefits. They are of course natural compounds, and your body utilizes them in a near infinite amount of ways. Take a look at how you can benefit from them as a piece of your boxing training program.
When most people think about amino acid products they think about building muscle and strength, and this is true. Aminos are the building blocks of proteins, which are the building blocks of muscles. They are necessary for muscle repair, growth and recovery, and if you want to build new muscle mass you need to be ingesting enough amino acids.
As mentioned, most people realize that but what most people don't necessary think about is that they make for excellent muscle recovery supplements. They will help your body repair your muscle mass in less time, allowing you to get back in the gym and back to training. You will also be able to prevent injuries from reoccurring, and you'll notice less pain and nagging strains as well.
In addition to serving as muscle recovery supplements, they can also help to improve the strength of your entire frame. They target the bones, joints, ligaments and cartilage, providing an all-over boost to your strength and fitness. You will immediately notice the difference in your performance and what you're capable of.
With amino acid products this is still really just the beginning. They can be used for just about anything. Some can actually serve as a natural energy booster, while other products and supplements can help your focus and concentration. You can find both complete amino acid products and those that offer or specialize in just one key amino acid. The most popular of these products are those focusing on L-Glutamine and L-Arginine.
It's also important to realize that many of these are actually essential for your diet, which means that your body can't produce them and therefore needs to ingest through through diet and supplementation. Therefore, using some of these products will enable you to meet all of your dietary needs, which can have a wide range of health benefits as well.
For a boxing training program, your body and your performance can reach entirely new levels as you take advantage of amino acid products. As muscle recovery supplements and in many other ways, they will increase the results that you see and keep you in action for more of the time with less pain and aggravation.

When you're looking for a way to improve your boxing training program, consider turning to amino acid supplements. They can boost your performance, keep you healthier and ultimately have you feeling better and enjoying increased success. At Boxing Equipment 24/7 you'll find a complete array of sports nutrition supplements and you'll find them at all at fantastic, cheap prices.

British Boxing - The New Breed of Legends? , Friday, March 19, 2010 at 2:17 AM, in

With 'Prince' Naseem Hamed long out of boxing, Joe Calzaghe recently retired and Ricky Hatton's retirement seemingly imminent, in recent months it's been easy to wonder where the next wave of genuine British boxing superstars are going to come from.
Some people have countered that question by raising the subject of enigmatic Nottingham boxer, Carl Froch. At 26-0 (20 KOs), holder of the WBC Super Middleweight Title and a participant in the prestigious 'Showtime Super Six World Classic', it seems Froch should already be a bona-fide superstar. But, for some reason, the British public just haven't taken to him and his fantastic wins over Jermain Taylor and Andre Dirrell have been seen by minimal audiences.
British boxing fans need not worry though. Three boxing stars are rising through the ranks and are set to ensure that there are many great boxing nights to be had, both here and abroad, over the next 5 to 10 years, as we support the most talented boxers on our shores. Interestingly enough, the three most talented boxers actually draw some very close parallels to the three legends mentioned at the start of this article.
The New Ricky Hatton?
Dagenham's Kevin Mitchell, 31-0 (23 KOs), was long considered a hot boxing prospect by boxing aficionados. Like Ricky Hatton, Mitchell turned professional after winning an ABA Title at the tender age of just 18, rather than attempting to succeed at International Level in the amateur ranks.
However, with his perfect display of boxing in scoring a near shut out 12 round points decision over Breidis Prescott in December 2009, Mitchell graduated from world class prospect to a genuine world title contender.
Mitchell draws many similarities to Hatton - both can box brilliantly but often prefer to get in a brawl and both possess knockout power, just see Hatton's chilling knockout of Carlos Maussa or Mitchell's annihilation of Ignacio Mendoza for supporting evidence.
In addition, both fighters have an almost fanatical fan base; Hatton's has travelled all over the globe to follow him in droves, in addition to packing out the City of Manchester football stadium (over 55,000 in attendance) whilst Mitchell is expected to draw a crowd of 35,000 plus for his next contest at the home of West Ham Football Club, Upton Park, in London's East End.
There's also the fact that both have been brought through the ranks very cautiously by Britain's top promoter, Frank Warren. Hatton's graduation into world class against the excellent Australian Kostya Tszyu was his 39th contest as a professional.
Mitchell's next contest, his 32nd, will be his first foray into world title level. Coincidentally, it will also see him facing an Australian opponent, Michael Katsidis, in a fight that is pencilled in as being for the Interim WBO Lightweight Title, although rumours persist that the fight may actually be for the full title if Juan Manuel Marquez moves up to the Light Welterweight division.
Hatton has been a two weight world champion and excited us in Britain for years - is it heaping too much pressure on young Mitchell to draw these similarities? Not if you ask me. Mitchell has the talent to succeed against Katsidis and enjoy a long and successful career at world title level.
Interestingly, the only way I see Mitchell failing is if he tries to move up in weight too far. He's a good sized Lightweight but for me, that's his limit. We saw how Hatton struggled terribly when venturing out of his natural weight division and I hope Mitchell can resist the temptations that saw Hatton struggle against Luis Collazo and Floyd Mayweather Jr.
The New Joe Calzaghe?
Amir Khan, 22-1 (16 KOs), may at first seem a rather poor comparison to the 'Pride of Newbridge' given that Khan has already suffered a defeat as a professional, something that Calzaghe avoided throughout his epic 46 fight career.
But, hear me out. There are more similarities than you'd think; let's first look at the amateur statistics. Both boxers were outstanding amateurs - nobody needs any reminding of Khan's amazing run to a silver medal as a 17 year old at the 2004 Olympics after all. Whilst Calzaghe was denied the opportunity to go the Olympics at Barcelona in 1992 (Robin Reid was selected for those games, somewhat controversially), Calzaghe to this day remains the only boxer to win Senior ABA titles in three successive years in three different weight divisions.
Both fighters key attribute is their speed with their hands seemingly able to rattle off huge numbers of punches in seconds, completely bewildering their opponents. And both also know how to get off the canvas to win; something we saw Calzaghe achieve against Byron Mitchell, Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr. Khan has had similar experiences against Rachid Drilzane, Michael Gomez and Willie Limond.
Both fighters started out with Frank Warren before going setting out on their own promotional path too, Calzaghe very late on in his career and Khan ditching Warren as soon as he hit the heights of WBA Light Welterweight Champion.
Next up for Khan is a test against Paulie Malignaggi at New York's legendary arena of Madison Square Garden (MSG). The same MSG where Calzaghe secured the forty sixth and final victory of his incredible career.
Khan may be unable to retire undefeated like Calzaghe did but I am convinced that he has the ability to perform at the highest level for a similar number of years. Like Calzaghe, it would be no surprise to see Khan end up as a multiple weight world champion either.
The New 'Prince Naseem Hamed'?
Hailing from the same Sheffield gym as Hamed and trained by the same trainer in Brendan Ingle, it is hardly surprising that so many have made comparisons between Hamed and Kell Brook, 21-0 (14 KOs).
Whilst, quite pleasingly, Brook is less cocky and arrogant than his one-time mentor Hamed, there is a certain conviction and confidence in the way Brook talks about his abilities that cannot help but get you thinking about the young 'Prince'.
When you watch Brook in the ring, it's impossible not to miss the same traits that have been taught to both Brook and Hamed by Ingle; both carry their chins a little bit higher than most would like but get away with it, both carry fantastic power in each hand and their speed of hand and foot leaves opponents with nowhere to hide.
Both fighters, under the advice of Ingle, had incredible success as amateurs as Junior level and decided to turn punch for pay at the first opportunity, rather than look for amateur success at Senior level.
Hamed struck an unbeaten run of 20 fights culminating in winning his first world title against Steve Robinson and Brook is not far behind at all; it seems likely he'll soon be the number one contender for the WBO Welterweight crown in the very near future.
Welterweight is a talent packed division with many former champions such as Miguel Cotto, Antonio Margarito and Paul Spadafora still in action and if Brook were to overcome those foes it would be very much akin to Hamed taking out Tom Johnson, Cesar Soto and Wilfredo Vasquez in his march through the Featherweight division.
It's still early days for Brook and even coming close to matching Hamed's achievements would an incredible feat, but who knows.....Brook may just possess the talent to surpass them.
And the best news for British boxing fans?
All three of the aforementioned fighters are still so young. Mitchell is the oldest at 25, whilst Khan and Brook at 23, so all have years and years of top level boxing still ahead of them.
Intriguingly, all three are very close in weight too - Mitchell a Lightweight, Khan a Light Welterweight and Brook a Welterweight. So, it's not beyond the realms of possibility that they could dominate their respective weight divisions before tackling each other in bouts of stature similar to the great Eubank/Benn/Collins wars of the 1990's!
Don't despair British boxing fans....things are definitely on the way up!

Luke W Calvert writes for exciting boxing website http://www.boxingcapital.com the only Boxing website to offer Boxing Equipment Reviews, Training Articles, Travel Information on the big fights in Las Vegas and Betting Tips in addition to all the usual news, fight reports and interviews.

Secrets of the Boxing Greats , at 2:15 AM, in

Boxing is a sport where your investment is in your fists. Some think it's a game, some think it's a form of barbarism. Whichever way you look at it, some great boxers were born into it, others were born to test themselves with it.
Start young
The best boxers in the world didn't come out of nowhere. They rose up to greatness, with early experiences which led them to take up boxing. Certain situations that happen to boxers would point out, they were drawn into boxing at early ages. Therefore there careers began and they grew up with it.
Train hard
Someone not so hot at boxing doesn't become a great professional overnight. While it appears many of the greats are naturally talented at boxing, many of them came about due to continual and constant training and honing of there skills. Like in any sport, you just don't grow some big muscles some day that make you a better boxer or be able to take the blows dealt your way. You have to put some time and effort into boxing which will help you get ahead with your boxing career.
Getting hurt
One of the downers in boxing is the fact, no one is invisible to the blows, so you have to take them as they are definitely part of the sport. There will be some that are very hard, some of them will be even harder, but you cannot choose, if you want to follow the way of some of the real greats.
Don't take it personally
Professional boxing isn't just called that because someone benefits professionally from the fight. Boxing isn't just limited to how much money is going to be made. Professional boxing is also professional because the boxers fully know that everything that takes place in the ring if for the fulfillment of the fight. It's not two guys fighting for personal reasons. The fact is that it is a game, like other games. You have to keep your emotions under control when you get in the ring or it's a sure way to lose the match.
Keeping up your discipline
Boxing is not only just a sport it is also really an art and a science in combination. Therefore the participators in this art are expected to keep discipline and there behavior under control. Discipline means boxers keep up regular training, keep exercising and of course practice self control.
Developing your own skills and techniques
What can you add to the game when everything seems to already have been done?
Very little, and yet from time to time a boxer will come up with his own techniques put together that are a bit different from everyone else. This is often a product of the boxer looking with great detail into the sport and discovering something new from an old craft. The thing of using old techniques but coming up with a few newly polished takes from one of the old great skills is innovation.
Invest in character
Not having a good character can be one of the terrible reasons a boxer doesn't become great themselves. It can be a lot harder to be humble when you know you can decide to have a fight any time you want, land some blow to a guys face and come out of it without being hurt yourself. But then again this is not what boxing is all about.
Boxing isn't simply about brawling, it's about testing your character. If you work hard and are patient enough, if you take into account the other fighters and build up respect for them, if you can take a look at another fighter and not just see a living punching bag, you can begin to see that it takes more then fighting and fists to be a great boxer. It requires you have a good character. All the greats have something in common. It is there personal investment on so many levels in this field.

Dean K Michaels is a 20 year + Boxing and Martial Arts Fanatic and writes for the company http://www.ultimateboxingbags.com. For the best prices and fast service check out: http://www.ultimateboxingbags.com.
The Author grants full reprint rights to this article. You may reprint and electronically distribute this article as long as its contents remain unchanged and the Author's byline remains in place.

Boxing Training Techniques to Improve Conditioning and Stamina , Monday, February 1, 2010 at 5:52 AM, in

Today there are specific boxing training techniques that a fighter can use to train each part of his or her game. One of the areas that most aspiring fighters need help with is their conditioning and stamina. Without it, you can struggle at the worst and most inopportune times, and with it, you will be able to rise above the competition and stay in great shape.
When you're looking at boxing training techniques specifically for stamina and conditioning, obviously you'll be looking for ways to improve how many rounds you can fight and train for, and how hard you can train during each one. This doesn't mean you have to go run ten miles every day however. There are many other techniques and strategies that you can use while training for boxing.
One of these is to incorporate a circuit training workout into your routine. A circuit training workout will move you quickly in between different exercises and machines without pause, as you work nonstop at each station. It works out your entire body, builds strength and will help to increase your stamina by getting your body used to working at full speed for extended periods of time.
Another one of the boxing training techniques you can use to improve stamina and conditioning is to buy a boxing round timer and set it to different lengths. Traditionally, while training for boxing your round timer is set to 3 minute rounds with 1 minute breaks. However, improve your conditioning you can make some small tweaks.
You could opt to limit your rest with the boxing round timer to 30 seconds between rounds. Alternatively, or in addition, you can set your rounds to be 4 or 5 minutes in length for a harder, more exhausting workout period. Either way, you will be taxing your body to a higher degree while training for boxing, which makes those formerly hard moments during a fight all the easier.
Of course, even if you are training for boxing just to get into better shape to begin with, it's still important to train for conditioning and stamina. It will improve your overall fitness, while helping you reach the goals that you have for weight loss and appearance.
Put these two boxing training techniques to use today and you'll start seeing serious improvements in your conditioning and stamina in no time at all. Training for boxing can be fun, challenging, intense and even rewarding. To make the most out of your time, incorporate a boxing round timer with tweaked settings and try a circuit training workout.

Visit Boxing Equipment 24/7 to learn more about the best boxing training techniques that you can start putting to use today. You'll also find a fantastic selection of cheap, brand name boxing equipment to complete your collection and improve your performance.

Fun and Effective Heavy Bag Training Exercises, Techniques and Workouts , at 5:50 AM, in

Heavy bag training is a staple of any boxing workout or routine. It's really the meat and potatoes of training for boxing, which is why you'll find so many boxing training tips that deal with improving your performance while using the bag. Here are a few more exercises, techniques and routines that should make your heavy bag training both fun and effective whether you're looking to buy your first punching bags for sale or you're a longtime boxing and fitness enthusiast.
One of the heavy bag training routines I always perform is to box for a round while throwing nothing less than a 4 punch combination. That means that every time you throw a punch you have to throw a minimum of 4. In this way, you'll keep your work rate and exercising intensity up. You'll also be honing your skills for effective combination punching.
Another one of the heavy bag training exercises that I like is the round dedicated to infighting. During this round, spend your time much closer to the bag, practicing infighting, clinching and dirty boxing. Work on your inside defensive maneuvers, shortening up your punches, punching your way out of trouble and more. You can even try resting your forehead against the bag to give you a more realistic account of what fighting in close quarters can be like.
As far as boxing training tips go, one of my favorites is the 250 punch heavy bag training round. This is exactly as it sounds, basically you are challenged to throw 250 punches in a single 3-minute round. That's way more than a punch per second, and during this heavy bag routine you still have to try to use solid fundamentals and punch with force. It's a challenging three minutes that will always keep you striving for improvement.
Of course, you can come up with your own heavy bag exercises and routines as well. A few others I like to incorporate are rounds devoted entirely to hard body shots, rounds devoted to defense and movement, rounds spent practicing the strictest of form and more.
These are just a few ideas and boxing training tips to help get you started in the right direction. Using these heavy bag training tips, exercises and routines will help you to get into the best shape of your life, while keeping your workouts fun, unique and engaging. Whether you go to a gym or are looking for punching bags for sale to use at home, these boxing training tips can help you in many different ways.

Visit Boxing Equipment 24/7 to learn all about heavy bag training. You'll find some great boxing training tips, but you'll also be able to browse through our huge collection of cheap punching bags for sale and other equipment as well.

4 Great Pieces of Discount Boxing Training Equipment , at 4:37 AM, in

There is certainly no shortage of boxing training equipment out there today. What you need to be able to do is narrow down the selection and find the best discount boxing equipment that's really going to help provide you with an edge.
Some will make you stronger, some will make working out easier and more convenient and some will help you get into better condition. Take a look at these 4 pieces of boxing training equipment that you may not be using yet to see if they'll be a good fit for you.
Sauna Sweat Suit: A sauna sweat suit will help you in many ways. It will help you trim down and cut weight when you have a competition coming up. It will raise the intensity of your training and your workouts, and it can even help to provide a bit of a detox for your body. It's definitely a worthwhile piece of discount boxing equipment.
Weighted Training Vest: A weighted training vest can be worn while you're running, shadow boxing or hitting the heavy bag. It will force your body and particularly your core muscles to adapt to the extra weight and get stronger. Then, when you remove the weighted training vest and move around normally, you'll be amazed at how quickly you move and how light you feel. It's a great piece of boxing training equipment that most people don't utilize enough.
Boxing Round Timer: This piece of boxing training equipment is all about making your life easier. Instead of constantly trying to look at a clock or a watch, or just guessing about how long you have been doing something, automate the process with a boxing round timer. You can program a boxing round timer to the standard 3 minute rounds with 1 minute of rest, or to anything else that you want.
Doorway Chin Up Bar: You won't get more bang for your buck than you do with this piece of discount boxing equipment. You can find a doorway chin up bar for $20 or less in many cases, and it will enable you to really pack on some lean muscle and strength. Boxers don't want to bulk up, so the body weight training provided by a doorway chin up bar is perfect, not to mention extremely convenient.
These are just a few more boxing training equipment items you may want to keep your eyes peeled for. Discount boxing equipment can help you in many ways, and these four items all provide distinct benefits that can take your game to the next level. So whether you are looking to improve your speed, your strength, the convenience of your workouts or anything else, consider adding some of this boxing training equipment to your collection.

Boxing training equipment doesn't have to set you back a fortune. You can find exactly what you're looking for, and find it at a great price too. At Boxing Equipment 24/7 you will enjoy a huge selection of boxing training equipment, including all of the great discount boxing equipment you need. Whether you are looking for a doorway chin up bar, boxing round timer, weighted training vest or a sauna sweat suit, you'll be able to find what you're looking for, and find it at an affordable price.

Exercise by Boxing For Anyone at Any Level , Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at 9:01 AM, in

Boxing is one of the most versatile ways to get in, and stay in shape. Even if you are working out alone there are many ways of building your endurance and strength. Just strapping on a pair of gloves and throwing punches at a bag can do wonders. The workouts are simple. Either use a stop watch or a round clock and build up your round lengths against the bag. Start short and be sure you warm up before each work out. Eventually you will be able to do several 3 min rounds or longer depending on your diet and work ethic with each workout. There are tons of articles and videos out there to learn and work on your technique. All I encourage you to do is GET STARTED. Technique and form will come in time, the important thing is to just get out there and get going. Realize how simple workouts can make you feel better. Punching is an awesome way to release stress and aggression. Working out by youself does have some advantages. The main one being cost. Once you get your own equipment you are set. You workouts are only limited to your imagination with the equipment you have.
Hopefully you do eventually find a workout partner. Maybe you start taking boxing, kickboxing, or some form of MMA class. These classes are great. I have taken kickboxing classes that were a great deal of fun and taught me a lot. I am also an assistant instructor on a military installation for the Modern Army Combatives Program. These classes are usually well planned and work on a multitude of aspects from technique to endurance. The same important thing stated above is important here, GET STARTED. Classes are often expensive so it is important you find one you enjoy and stick with it. Classes have the advatage of constent suppervision and critiques. Plus you have people there to help you stay motivated.




MMA is one the most popular sports in the world today. People everywhere are learning Mixed Martial Arts. Not only will boxing provide you with a great foundation if you wish to transfer over into MMA, but it will also give you tools for self defense.
Boxing brings lots of fun and challanges to all who wish to explore its enormous possiblities. Start small and work your way up. A question many people have who get started is what type of equipment they need. This depends on your goals. Good equipment is essential to good workouts and more important, keeping yourself healthy. Boxing can be a dangerous sport so the proper equipment is vital to all levels of participants.

Straight Left Punch , at 8:17 AM, in

A southpaw boxer's best punch is arguably the straight left hand. This punch is very important. The straight punch is almost perfectly aligned with your opponent. When you throw this punch, there is a high chance your punch will hit your opponent flush. As important as this punch is, inversely, your opponent's best punch to counter you is their straight right hand. In order to be successful with this punch, follow the tips below.

• Throw the straight left hand with speed.
• Instead of putting weight behind the punch, learn to throw the punch with explosive ferocity.
• Practice leading with the straight left instead of the jab.
• Aim to get your straight left hand as fast as your jab.
• Push off your back foot.
• When you move, keep your back feet low to the ground and take short steps.
• By keeping you back foot close to the ground, this allows you to instantly plant your foot and fire your straight.
• Rotate your hand clockwise. This raises your shoulder and protects your chin.

The straight must be thrown with speed and efficiency. Practice throwing this punch on a heavy back. Work on building your endurance. By repeatedly throwing this punch, your body will get use to it and compensate if you are wasting energy. The straight left hand is a power punch. Unlike a jab, you can't throw this punch often without getting tired. The key to keeping this punch efficient and saving energy is to throw this punch from you foot. You must dig your rear foot before you throw this punch. After your dig, rotate your hips, swing, and follow through. After you swing your hips, throw the punch from your shoulder. Focus on keeping your body behind the punch. This is what gives it power.

Wisedth Sar is a young and active author. Southpaw boxers must learn to fight differently than orthodox fighters. The straight left hand is a staple power punch. Southpaw Slugger is a place to learn southpaw boxing strategies and fitness training tips for boxing.

The Effect of Spectacular Science Fiction on Martial Arts , Sunday, January 3, 2010 at 3:29 AM, in

Many of the martial arts, like karate are fiction. Slam somebody on the nose with a palm and bone shards will spear into his brain and kill him, except there isn't any bone in the nose, its all cartilage. And all those old legends, a lot of them are good for washing the hog, if you have a willing hog.
But, there is a certain science that has proven true in the martial arts. This is the science of how to use geometrical energy potentials. I discovered this field while reading a series of books called the Lensmen Series.
I suppose the first time it hit me was when E. E. Smith, the author, described spacemen fighting on the hull of a space ship. They were hooking their feet under hand grips so they would not fly into space when they hit somebody. They were anchoring themselves so they could apply force, and not have the force dislodge them.
Soon I was swallowed by a universe where weapons created incredible geometries of force. A death ray was a beam, and it could be deflected by a well built shield. And if a shield could deflect, then a shield thrust sideways could slice the first shield apart.
Soon I was enraptured by images of fleets of space ships creating their own particular brand of strategy. Fleets of space ships would form globes around other fleets, and cones of spaceships would swallow globes of fleets. Each time a geometry was described, my mind struggled to keep up with the wash of new concepts.




Then, shock of shocks, fleets of spaceships gave way to mental powers. Those same rods and globes and cones and shields, made real in the extreme of space combat, became the stuff of mind to mind encounters. How do you slide your awareness through the grid of another but alien mentality?
And, ultimately, done with the books, I began extending these outer space alien mind combat strategies to the martial arts. I sank my weight and planted my stance so I would not fly back from my own force. I described cones with my arms, and engulfed globular fists as they flew out of space at me.
When I tell people about this they generally think I am a bit crazy, or they know me a genius. Reading sci fi for inspiration, who would have thought. Yet, isn't the martial arts an art, and shouldn't it be filled with creativity and expression and beams of force and mind to mind conflicts?

Al Case has researched martial arts for 40 years. A writer for the magazines, he is the originator of Matrixing Technology. You can find out about Matrixing by getting his free ebook at Monster Martial Arts.

How to Ensure Longevity in Your Boxing Training , at 3:26 AM, in

To box, you have to be in great shape. The effort and time required to achieve this level of fitness is too intense for most people. You really have to tough it out to get a chance at the top levels of the sport.
But, surprisingly, what prevents most mediocre boxers from reaching their full potential isn't toughness or heart, it's their joints.
Without a conscious effort to protect the joints during training, you may suffer needless injuries.
Protect the ankles and knees during boxing training
Casual boxing fans hardly ever notice boxers' footwear. When they do, they probably don't give it a second glance. But good boxing boots are essential to boxers who want to stick with the sport for the long haul.
Boxing shoes are smooth-soled. This encourages pivoting -- an essential component of most punches -- without putting undue stress on the ankle and knee joints.
It is a mistake to use street shoes or shoes designed for other sports like basketball or jogging. The grippy soles and lack of ankle support will eventually damage the knee ligaments.
Protect the hands and wrists during boxing training
Most people understand that boxers' hands and wrists take a beating -- literally -- on the pads, bags, and during sparring.
What they fail to realize is that protective equipment like hand-wraps and padded gloves is essential for the long-term viability of these delicate joints. Without hand wraps, boxers would not be able to continue the sport past a few years, even if they never suffer a serious injury like a broken bone or a dislocated thumb.




Wraps change the hand from a delicate collection of small bones into a single entity capable of withstanding repeated blows designed to damage an opponent. Smart boxers know never to train without wraps.
Protect the lower back during boxing training
The lower back is the link between the legs and the shoulders. Boxers who weaken or injure their lower back during practice find themselves ineffective and injury-prone.
Since most fighters spend a good deal of time and effort strengthening their abdominals, they run the risk of unbalanced development in the lower back. Strong abs and a weak lower back is a path to injury that is easily avoided if back-strengthening exercises are incorporated into the workout routine from the very beginning.
Punches -- especially hooks and uppercuts -- put a lot of rotational stress on the lumbar region of the spine. It's imperative to have a strong foundation before engaging in intense punching training.

If you do it, do it right!
Want to be feared and respected? Then get some boxing training instruction. If you're just waving your arms around without understanding the fundamentals behind the sport, you won't succeed in the long run. Click this link: power punching techniques and start learning. Or increase punching power by getting some expert instruction.

Boxing and Sports Psychology , at 2:52 AM, in

What does it take to be a great boxer? What can fighters do to get mentally tougher? And what kind of mental training is helpful for fighters?
In the past, I have counseled a number of boxers, martial artists and mixed martial artists. When I work with these athletes, I usually also work closely with their trainers and their managers. This is essential, since these people are a vital part of the boxer's team. Everyone in the athlete's camp must be on the same page when the bell for the first round sounds.
For some reason, I have been contacted by a number of fighter recently. Several of these boxers are competing in The Golden Gloves Tournament in New York City.
Key issues for fighters include learning how to stay relaxed before the fight and once the fight begins. Some boxers are overly nervous or overly anxious before a bout begins.
Fighters also need to learn how to remain confident, calm and focused during the course of the fight. Teaching fighters confidence building affirmations can also help them to enter the ring with a positive attitude and a fighting spirit. I encouraged one fighter to think of himself as a ferocious tiger before he entered the ring. This image helped him to find stay calm and to find the kind of aggressiveness he needed to fight well.
Fighters also need to know what their strengths and weaknesses are so they can continue to get mentally and physically better as they train. Good boxers continue to sharpen their skills and work on their techniques throughout their careers.
Boxers are also encouraged to study film of their opponents so they can develop a fight plan for their upcoming fights. This kind of plan helps the fighter to focus more effectively during the course of the bout.




Fighters also need to flexible enough to change strategy and tactics if things are not going well as they would have hoped as the fight unfolds. Many fighters fail because they have only one approach or one style to fighting. A versatile fighter is apt to be more successful against a wide array of opponents than is a one dimensional fighter.
Boxers need to be able to find the right level aggressiveness and the right energy level for their craft. I teach boxers to fight in mental state which can best be described as a state of relaxed aggression.
Boxers also need to develop mental and physical resiliency so they can weather the physical
punishment which is part of boxing. Learning how to recover physically an psychologically from a heavy punch or from a combination of punches that land are essential skills for a fighter who competes at a high level.
Many boxers who I have coached seem to benefit from mastering self-hypnosis, meditation, visualization and guided imagery.

Jay P. Granat, Ph.D. is a psychotherapist and the founder of http://www.stayinthezone.com. He has written several books and developed several programs to help people perform to their fullest potential at sports, at work and at school. Dr. Granat, a former university professor, has appeared in The New York Times, Good Morning America, AP, ESPN, Golf Digest, The BBC and The CBC. He can be reached at info@stayinthezone.com. There are many articles, products, books and CD programs for boxers and other athletes at this site.

Boxing Or MMA? The Question! , Friday, January 1, 2010 at 10:10 PM, in

Felix Trinidad Boxing
'Boxing's dead.'
'Boxing's not what it used to be.'
'There are no good wrestlers out there today.'
These are just one or two of the comments thrown around by fans of the sport of kings waiting patiently for a waft of life into the flailing lungs of boxing. In spite of a virtual plethora of organizations boasting their own version of an international title, most of us would fail to name even one of the men who stake claim to a kind of the fragmented heavyweight championship. WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, IBO (probably, another organization surfaced as this article was being written), is it important anymore?
Yet with at least 5 world heavyweight belts, can the casual observer name even one champion? If this is the case be assured that person is in a rare group. Try naming two, three, or four. I'll bet that my eight years old niece would have an improved chance at naming all four Beatles.
Raised on fighting, I was sufficiently lucky to see lots of the game's greatest soldiers, some in their prime. I sat transfixed in front of a huge TV that was set inside of a wooden cupboard. There were 2 round knobs to switch the channels on the right side of the monstrosity, one for the UHF channels which continually broadcast static.






As I grew into adulthood, the archaic TV was upgraded to one with a RC and the addition of a wire box. Between closed circuit television and cable, my fighting fix was happy with wars from some of the greatest wrestlers to ever lace up gloves. Duran beat Leonard. Hagler beat Hearns. These men all fought one another, and were so dominant that they only need to be referred by their last names to be recognized.
Is it actually critical to say 'Mike' when speaking of Tyson? Nuff said. Iron Mike was boxing's last personality that can be recalled by the average person or casual fan. Still, most folk remember Iron Mike. Tyson fights surpassed the sport of boxing. They were never fights; they were grand spectacles: events of their own. Mike might have been pit against the Pope, Elvis, or even God; and it still would've been called'The Tyson Fight.'
Today's fighting PPV numbers seem unimportant in comparison to the consistent record breaking cards that Tyson pulled even if his career was on the fall. Delahoya and Mayweather drew a record PPV number for their contemporary bout, but it was not without spending a giant amount of cash on promotion. Commercials, print media advertisements, and - for the first time in fighting history - an entire cable Reality Television series was filmed to hype the fight.
Rules are incorporated to guarantee safety and get rid of the barbarous brutality of a street fight. Biting and poking in the eyes are two examples of banned offensive strategies. A fighter trains to punch quicker, harder, and more correctly. They also exercise to have great stamina. When pitting an in shape sportsman against a standard person who is not coaching, the stamina factor alone will sway the fight in favour of the sportsman. Coupled with boxing skills, you've a no contest in favour of the fighter.
Many of us may not know that Wladimir Klitschko holds three of the alphabet soup of heavyweight boxing titles, but he earned extra money in his unification bout with Sultan Ibragimov than each MMA fighter on the last UFC ( final Fighting Championship ) card mixed. And can boast that he also earned more for the losing effort than most MMA fighters, even champions, have earned in their whole career.
Only time will tell.

For more boxing news, check out Felix Trinidad Boxing. Also, check out: Boxing or MMA? Get more boxing and MMA news at Felix Trinidad Boxing.