It is an excellent sport for improving strength, agility and reflexes and it is a rigorous sport enjoyed almost entirely of young men and boys from the age of 12.

Getting Started. The boxer apart from the clothing of shorts and vest, boots, a protector, gum-shield and gloves needs no special equipment. All boxing contests operate under strict rules and supervision in order to limit the physical injury that may occur. In order to learn the basics of boxing it is essential to have proper training and supervision, which can be gained by joining a club which will be affiliated to the Scottish Amateur Boxing Association. The club will give you opportunities for training and for learning the sport by sparring with more experienced boxers.

Getting Better. By joining one of the clubs affiliated to the Scottish Amateur Boxing Association you will be able to improve your skills by taking part in boxing bouts held within the club, and then in local championships held within each district of the Association. The local champions then take part in the Scottish championships for youth and senior boxers.

Coaching is available through clubs, and the Association organises a programme of training courses during the season (September to May) which are held over one day or weekends at various locations throughout Scotland.

All contacts are carefully controlled and are attended by the referee who supervises the bout, three or five judges to score the contest, a timekeeper, two official seconds for each boxer, and a qualified medical officer.

Finding Out More. To find out details of your nearest club, contact the Scottish Amateur Boxing Association. The Association also publishes for its clubs a Handbook of Affiliated Clubs and Officials, and issues each year a calendar of training courses.

[Boxing News]

{The magazine Boxing News can be obtained through newsagents.}