Boxing, a sport historically dominated by men, has seen an increasing number of women stepping into the ring. With this rise in participation, questions about the safety of boxing for women have emerged (again). So, let’s talk about it!
The Benefits of Boxing for Women
Physical Benefits
Boxing offers numerous physical benefits, making it a great workout for women of ALL ages (we at GJWB have members aged 6-60+ years old). It provides a full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and improves coordination & balance. Women who take up boxing often experience increased endurance, agility, and overall fitness.
Mental Empowerment
Beyond physical fitness, boxing is a powerful tool for mental empowerment. It helps women build confidence, discipline, and mental resilience. The challenges faced in training [and competition if they choose] foster a sense of achievement and self-worth. Women boxers often report a heightened sense of empowerment and control over their lives.
Before we even dive deep into the safety measures in place and myths – lets first start by saying: You can still learn the real sport of boxing WITHOUT getting hit or hitting anyone. Currently 80% of our gym members are non-competitive. This indicates that they are obtaining the full benefits of training as a boxing athlete without engaging in contact.
Safety Measures in Women's Boxing
Proper Training and Supervision
One of the key factors in ensuring safety in boxing is proper training and supervision. Qualified coaches provide essential guidance on technique, ensure that participants learn how to offend and defend themselves effectively, and minimize the risk of injury. Structured training programs also emphasize the importance of warm-ups, cool-downs, and periodization to ensure there is adequate rest. Furthermore, during competition (for those who select this option), the PRIMARY responsibility of the referees in the ring is to ensure the safety of the athletes. Sometimes you will see “unnecessary” 8 counts and/or stoppages of fights for this exact reason.
Protective Gear
In addition to having qualified coaches that monitor boxer’s progression. Safety in boxing is enhanced using protective gear. Women boxers wear gloves, mouth-guards, headgear, and waist guards to reduce the impact of blows and prevent injuries.
Waist guards?! We have noticed over the years LOTS of girls and women are not wearing a waist guard and they should be! The reason being all of them are made for men – so they are either too big or they are protecting the “other pretty.” We teamed up with a local manufacturer to make the GJWB x Venus Belt waist guard. Just like all our other gear – fashionable, properly fitted, and functional to protect us while sparring and competing. Check them out here!
Common Myth
Myth: Boxing is Inherently Violent
A common misconception is that boxing is an inherently violent sport. Boxing is highly regulated, with strict rules governing conduct in the ring. The emphasis is on skill, strategy, and technique rather than brute force. The sport promotes respect and sportsmanship between competitors. Hence why you see them touch gloves at the beginning.
Like most things in life – boxing – can be done in a safe way if implemented with proper coaching and gear.
And again, you can always choose to box in a non-contact way!
Final thoughts..
Boxing is a safe and empowering sport for women when approached with the right mindset and precautions. The physical and mental benefits, coupled with proper coaching/training, protective gear, and medical supervision; create a secure environment for women to thrive.
Boxing offers women a unique opportunity to challenge themselves, both physically and mentally. It is a sport that, when practiced responsibly, can lead to remarkable personal growth and empowerment. As more women lace up their gloves and step into the ring, the narrative around boxing and women's safety continues to evolve, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive sporting community! So whether you are learning to box for fun (fitness) or for real (competitive) let’s get you started and join #girlsjustwannabox!
If you are looking for classes (you can check our schedule here).
What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!
