Q: I am __ years old and just barely started boxing. Am I too old to box or ever be any good?
A: I’ve never been one to believe the old adage about boxing that goes “Boxing is a young man’s game.” There was an article on ESPN 2 years ago showing how there are still several boxers in their 30’s and 40’s that are still winning world championships!
I would recommend a safe and healthy dose of boxing for just about capable person! It’s never too late to improve your physical health, sharpen your mind, raise your confidence, and break a sweat all in the name of fun! As long as you have a good trainer and gym that understands your goals as a boxer, there’s no reason why you can’t accomplish them. Boxing can be a great source of exercise, entertainment, or competition whatever your needs may be.
I’ve seen people start boxing at the age of 25 with minimal dedication and still manage to have a great time while accomplishing new personal goals in fighting and physical shape.
The bottom line – it’s never too late to start boxing. All you have to do is go to a gym and see for yourself that there are men and women of all ages looking to get a great workout mentally and physically. I hope this helps!
I’m 38 and Been boxing three months now and loving it. Two other chaps at my gym are 42 and having only been boxing a few more months than myself. I think the three of us try that much harder and push ourselves harder. This is evident in our fitness levels. The younger lads in their twenties obviously have a speed and power advantage.
My attitude is to counter this by being more intelligent.
I’m 47 and I used boxining in my childhood (from 11 until 16, Romania). Six months ago I started boxing again with the special reason to loose weight. Now i’m in love again with my first love boxing and I don’t miss any trayning. I use to go in to the ring with much younger guys and i do my job corectly 3 or 4 rounds.
I wish good luck to all the old boys who start this wonderfool sport.
Hi
I am 56 I use to box 45 years ago I broke my neck and part of my spine I was told for years I will neve box again well I am ready to give it a go and start again
May I ask if you feel I am to old? I feel that people say it’s a young mans game well one fir for all And all foe one I say
I feel age should not make a difference and that someone should open. A handy cap boxing match
After all it’s what in your heart ❤️
I thank you are amazing to start at 47
God bless you
i’m 56 too and go to boxing training 3 times a week. it’s the greatest! i never felt fitter and stronger in my life. btw, 3/4 of all who train at our boxing gym are females!
God bless you that’s awesome!
Hello Everyone my name is Sarita prefer to be called Rita I am 45 and really considering of boxing i have played basketball and softball all my life however i really need a great trainer i need to get back in shape because last year as of 2016 i was not active i started back playing softball this year of 2017 and lately boxing has been heavy on my mind i will do for several reasons but the main reason is that it is competitve and i need to stay active and get in shape. You are definitely my motivation because my first thought was i am too old in age. after doing research on the internet for beginners it was good to know that it is not to late to accomplish what i thought of several years ago. I currently live in Las Vegas so if anyone knows of a great trainer please help. Thanking you in Advance and Best Wishes to all..
I Wanna Become a Boxer Because its Competitive, I will have the opportunity to get in shape by a great trainer and also its a stress relief from life obstacles. Again any suggestions of Trainers i am currently in las vegas nevada. Thanks Again and Good Luck to ALL.
Hi I’m back boxing trading after 25 yrs,I’m 52 now,I’m going to get a bit fitter and then go to a club to train,spar and then who knows,good luck to any one who trains,Dave.m
Hi Wilson I’m your age and for ages I’ve been burdened by thoughts of letting time go by without trying things that I feel inside would enable me to progress in life in general, I love boxing more than football which is saying something as I was a youth pro back then, all said and done I believe I need to try at the very least for my self because I feel ive got loads more to give, email me please m8 Id love a chat about it all [email protected] 07767260302
Hi everyone, I think it’s good so many of you are boxing I’m a ex pro boxer and I’m 37 I still go to the gym with my own boys so keep pushing on you only get out what you put in. I help run a gym in camberley I love to help anyone who is serious.
Wow I think. Am the oldest at 56 but age is only a number way to go everyone
On YouTube you will find handy cap boxing I think it I should wonderful there is also a handy cap gym in road island I just saw
I wish someone would open one in. New York
God bless you all
Keep fighting
I will be 33 in febuary, and just recently started sparring. I dont have any prior experience in boxing. But i feel like im not to old. If it takes me to the pros then so be it. I just love the sport and the work.
love your attitude mate im debating with myself if I compete and learn boxing at nearly 30 I love the idea and am really looking to compete at some physical sport as well as get my fitness up but boxing is the sport I really want to compete in
i am 33 and began to boxing this year.
never had an experience of fighting sports before.
i quit smoking the same day and i feel like i reborn.
in my gym we have also guys at the age of 42 and 40 that began this year.
they are all so fine…
Guys, you are all so young… lol
I’m 44 and started this year. Previously I had done fencing, but not for many years now.
I took on boxing because of my interest in the sport and as a means to get fit. I am a paramedic and made the interservice games my goal to compete in – a way to force myself to get fit or get my ass handed to me.
I competed ok, didnt win, but didnt embarrass myself too much. But it was awesome fun and I feel all the better for it.
Speed and power is important, but I found endurance, pacing yourself and being smart is what really wins fights. Skills beat power just about all the time.
I’m not 20 anymore, but in some ways I wouldnt want to be.
I’m glad I took the plunge to take on a sport I’ve been interested in for years, but hadnt really tried.
Most of all I am fitter, faster and have new friends.
They say the body you take into your fifties is the one you are likely to have for the rest of your life – I made the decision not to be the fat dad who cant keep up with his kids.
I only hope more older guys and girls made a similar lifestyle choice.
Cheers Stan
In my opinion, boxing and the conditioning and bodyweight strength movements that go along with it is the best way to stay fit and keep your weight under control.
It’s a lifestyle that has everything in place to keep you fit.
I use the heavybag, speedbag, focus mitts, and occasional sparring along with bodyweight strength movements with gymnastic rings, bodyweight conditioning circuits, and I swim 3 times a week instead of running because it’s easier on my joints and allows me to work on my anerobic threshhold. (working with little available oxygen) which helps my boxing endurance tremendously. The younger guys at my gym wonder how the old man never gets tired when they’re gasping for air.
Even though I don’t fight competetively, (I’m 46) I stay at the middleweight level (just below 160 at 5’8”) as far as weight goes because it’s my natural weight, and I have a “weigh-in” every month to see where I’m at. If I’m high, I bring it down. If I’m low, I bring it up. It’s easy for me to stay “on point” that way. My bodyfat percentage is in the single digits and I have great muscle tone and definition without the unecessary bulk all because of boxing type training and a good diet.
Never felt better in my life.
I’m 21 & im starting on monday.
Very determined To go pro.
But the main thing is just to stay in shape & live a Healthy Lifestyle.
-Mike
Don’t forget to post your videos on our Facebook. Best of luck to you, Mike!
Im about to start boxing again at 38 years old. Ive done martial arts on and off since I was 9 years old. When I was in the army I tried out for boxing team. This was during basic training for junior soldiers (16 to 17 years old, 1 years basic training). I only had 14 days of boxing training till the big annual compitition, which wasn’t great but I couldn’t change that. I was already pretty fit from 6 months of Army training and I knew how to fight and move a bit from doing Karate and being brought up in a tough area. Anyway the way it worked out I got a buy through to the final where I was to fight a guy who had boxed for a couple of years before he joined the Army and he had joined the Army at the same time as me so he had similar fitness levels. The guy was shorter than me but he weighed the same. I knew the guy, he was very muscular/powerful, very strong! Almost everyone (including him) thought he would beat me easily, but this is boxing match not a strong man contest or streetfight. I had 100% faith in myself that i would win and my coach was also confident. I knew I couldn’t stand in front of him and brawl with him without being knocked out. From the opening bell the guy came at me with big hooks and power punches. I was up on my toes on the back foot, sliding my front foot back and pulling back just out of range. I left deliberate but subtle openings and when he commited himself to these punches i drove off the back foot and drove a stiff jab into his chin, hitting him clean with almost every punch!! I did this most of the fight which drove him mad and in turn this made him fall into my traps even easier. Only on the occasions that I stunned him with the jab did i bother to followed up with crosses and hooks. I won the fight easily!!! My point is that regardles of age/experience or whatever, you can have success on some level. If you train, eat and fight smart and to a proper thought out plan then you can achieve great things. If you believe in yourself and forge your mind into steal you will amaze yourself and others at what you can achieve! Look at Evander Holyfield, George Forman and Bernard Hopkins. If they had listened to other people that didnt believe in them then they wouldnt have amazed us all with great perfomances despite their age!
All the best guys. Train hard! 🙂
Amazing story, Trevy. I wish I was there to see it.
Great story mate,I think self believe is a big part,hope your still training…Dave,m
Boxing is one of the greatest things to happen to me. I started basic boxing at age 16 two years later I am 60 pounds lighter, quicker, and stronger. I would love to compete in an afew amature tournaments.
A while back, a 52 year old male made a Pro-Debut after being exonerated of murder.
These people that say you can’t, F! em, if there is a will there is a way”.”
“Age is no barrier. It’s a limitation you put on your mind.” -Jackie Joyner Kersee
I am 29 years old can I start kick boxing training and be a champion?
Amen I am 56 and I am starting again I also have a fused neck and part spine but it will not stop me
God bless you
Let’s win this fight together
Aloha Alice, I’ve been boxing for 3 years and I’m 59 but I’ve always surfed, snowboarder etc. I spar hard and feel great boxing. I’ve always loved to push myself so GO FOR UT!
Alice–How’s the boxing going? I’m older than you w/the same spine problems. I’m going to try to get back to bag-type training, just b/c i love the energy and form of boxing. Let me know how it’s worked for you.
I start when I was 20, but fell off when I transferred, then shortly after that blew a knee, but 5 years later I’m back and ready to kick ass. and I’m teaching my now future wife the basics now.
Hey! I am nearly 57………I wanna train to box…….comments invited
In the gym where I train, there are 3 guys with more than 50 years old. Two os them got quiet in shape and love the exercise. But the third one….. he’s a killer. He’s not too fast but he’s extremly strong, with good technique, good footwork, and good endurance. I’m not saying he’s the best boxer at the gym, but I saw him beat up several young guys.
Oh, and my first boxing trainer was a 60 year old retired pro boxer , and he use to fight EVERY boxer that he trains in sequence, doing about 30 rounds in a roll. And he used to beat them all (including me).
To show that I’m not joking, here is a video of him. By the time this was filmed, he was 58: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKxSjEy1UpU
Not too old at all!
i’am 59 and i want to train in my gym . first going to get my doctors ok… then give a shot it’s something i wanted to try for the longest time but never put it into motion, see what happens !
Even if you don’t spar, boxing is still a great exercise. Give it a try!
I am 57 – will be 58 next month. I started 3 weeks ago. Take 2 classes a week. I am loving this so far. I am feeling good about myself all ready. I have aches I haven’t had for awhile but I know it will get better. My trainer is a Kuk Sool Won master and knows what she’s doing but also makes this fun for me. Good luck!
Wow ok I’m not alone. I am 56 good for you god bless
I started boxing at age 57, had about 11 public fights and competed in the Masters Boxing Division when I was 59 in Kansas City, Great experience. I am 66 and trying to compete one more time. Just need a doctor to sign my medical card. Get good headgear. Never to old
Wow
So I can also do the same I would love to fight
God bless you my friend I am 56 and will start if I can find a trainer in Staten Island to help me
I want to also say I am fighting cancer for my 3rd fight if I can win that fight any fight should be easy they sat 3 strikes your out well it’s ball 4 I’m still standing with my two feet on the floor
Wow I am so happy I found Thisbe page I feel so much better
People say I am nuts to even think of boxing again but what do they know
I’ll fight till I die
A true fighter never throws in the towel
God bless you all
You all have heart and that is all we need
Let’s win this fight together
Amen
Do you think they have any thing like this in New York ?
I j St had to say wow you are amazing
John
I know you posted this years ago but maybe someone else is reading it, IM turning 54 this year and I started boxing, this is my second week and I haven’t miss a day. I still go even with my knee problem.
so I hope you still boxing..its good for your soul and health 🙂
God bless
mate started boxing at 54/ sparring at 55 / living the dream
God bless
You are amazing
Great idea getting the doc’s ok first, too. It’s policy at my gym that everyone does, from the kids upwards (probably a legal liability thing) but I think it’s important. By the way I was 39 when I started and horribly out of shape, and I wasn’t the youngest by, wait for it…20 years. Now I’m holding my own with people 10 years younger than me. So go for it!
20 years!!!!
Yeah! Bought his grandson along and just stayed 🙂 And just to prove everyone has something they’re naturally good at… I’ve seen young guys at the point of throwing up/passing out/crying for their mama and Dave’s still plugging away, nice and steady, looking like he could easily do this for another couple of hours.
Oh and John? My trainer discovered a cracker of a left hook I never dreamed I had….good luck, and enjoy the journey!
Great Site!
Question: Which mouth piece do you believe offers the most protection?
Thanks,
William
I use the Brain-Pads brand but the other ones like Shock Doctor are also good.
IM 30 years old guys started training in martial arts at 6 years old. I competed in many competitions,i also won 6 state championship titles an 4 junior national championship titles. In 1996 i was chosen to compete in the US junior olympics in orlando florida. I continued to compete for the next 4years,then i took sometime off to focus on other sports.But by the time i was 27 it had hit me to where i was missing it,so by the time i was 29 i decided make a comeback. But this time it was mma,september 29,2012 in alexandria,la i made my first mma debut at 162 lbs. So far i ve had 2 mma fights,but i got hurt during training for my 3 fight. Its been 6 months since i ve been in the cage,but im looking to come back this time an compete as a pro.
Great dedication and heart you showing in coming back. Do you have any videos of yourself, Manuel?
They recorded some film but never put it on YouTube. I never got a chance to comeback. I started training in boxing and still mma. I got and invite to train at the ufc gym in Louisiana. So I went and the coaches loved my skills really my striking game. They offered me to come back, but never got a chance to. Job and trying to balance family life was hard. I got a call from a friend last year for a pro fight at 185lbs, but at the time I wasn’t training .Now I’m 195 still thinking about fighting one day before I get to old.
I started at the beginning of this year and I just turned 59! I only took four lessons but I learned a lot. Now I’m trying to figure out where to go from here. My coach only teaches to prepare for competition, something I won’t be doing.
Hi Johnny!
I’m 16 years old and recently started boxing. I want to continue with the sport through out my life, and actually becoming a pro champion. What do you think is this a good age to start my career or is it to late? I’m not sure because I know many pro’s started at a younger age then me. Will this give boxers a big advantage over me when i turn pro? Oh and I also haven’t done much sport before. So can I still become the best in the sport? What do you think and why do you think that way?
Thanks in advance:)
The answer is in the article, Rafael.
Whatever your mind can conceive and believe, it CAN ACHIEVE. Trust me, this is one of the truest sayings you’ll ever read/hear.
I boxed a little when I was in my late teens and early 20’s whilst serving in the British Royal Marine Commandos, but didn’t stick with it, though I fought in, and won 5 inter company bouts.
Now at the tender age of 32 years YOUNG, I am getting back into it. Why the hell not. I’m getting back into it with every intention of competing, probably on the new semi pro scene here in the United Kingdom and I have nothing but respect for those of you looking to start in this sport at an older age. Remember, never say ” I’m X amount of years OLD” ..always say “I’m X amount of years YOUNG”. I’m routing for all of you…good luck.
That’s wonderful news to hear – because I am 55 years old young and just got back into boxing after leaving it for 25 years and I am enjoying myself. I think you just have to be smart and listen to your body.
Age has nothing to do with learning a new sport so long as you go slow and learn the basics. I am a 62 yo female and abt 2 months ago I got a friend to teach me how to use the speed bag. I practice almost every day and now i can do 7- 3min wkouts maintaining pretty good speed and rythym with a min rest between. i also-due to another friend- started using the heavy bag which is why I am checking out this site. I always wanted to learn how to box and now i finally am. I am in good shape cause i work-out anyway with weights, spin and elliptical etc but the boxing has added a whole new set of challenges and fun to my workouts.
Love your info Johnny-keep it coming please!
I am a lonely 66 year old retiree going to try to do some boxing myself thank you for your inspiration
I posted once before about my 1st time sparring at 50 years old about a month ago. I tuned 50 in May, and joined a MMA gym here for kickboxing. I started out with their cardio kickboxing run by active fighters that have to go 3-5min rounds, sometimes 5-5min rounds. They expect a lot from people, and I can say I joined in good shape, but 10-11 rounds on heavy and speciality bags, with your break between rounds are usually push-ups, burpees, and planks were very tough at first, well they still are. The one trainer has us go 20 minutes with a 2 minute water break, and then another 20 minutes. After 40 minutes of bag, he finishes with 20 minutes of strength and conditioning. I still think to my self after the first couple rounds, how am I going to do 8-9 more, but you do some how. I joined a couple months ago at 155 lbs, and now I am at 137, and I eat more than I did before I joined.
The fighter that runs the advanced Muay Thai program, asked if I would join…I noticed him keeping an eye on me. Last night was my first night, and it’s a new level of hardest…almost 2 hours in the ring. After the first part, I was thinking, ” what did I get my self into”. I was glad it was over with, but can’t wait until tomorrow to see what trail by fire he has in store for me next.
He only picks maybe one person every 4 months to join his program (I’m guessing…I’ve been there 2 1/2 months and never seen anyone new added), and the place is loaded with teens, twenty-thirty year olds. So, please don’t think you’re too old. I will for sure post a youtube of my 1st fight…win or lose.
I always go to Jonny’s site when I have questions or need help, like new combinations to call out when working the pads.
Thanks again Johnny…you know I think a lot of you for what you do for us, and hope to at least buy you lunch or dinner next time your in Orange County. Let me know!
That would be awesome, Jim! I’ll let you know!
Sorry guys and gals…I meant hardness, not hardest.
just wondering guys if I can get some advice on something see heres the thing im turning 30 in February but keen to get into either mma,boxing or muay thai for the first time ever of any training and my goal is to work my ass off and get into competition but not really sure which one. I was just wondering what you guys think would be the best to get into competitively for someone my age out of these choices
Try it all. See which sport and environment you like best. They all offer different kinds of challenges and come with different types of gym attitudes.
Jason T, I wouldn’t say one or the other is perferable when considering age. Pick which gets your fire burning hottest and go for it. Being biased, I’d go for boxing purely because there is less to learn from a technical standpoint, I.e you’re not going to have to learn to use elbows, kicks, knees, grappling etc. Don’t be fooled though, it takes a lifetime to master the sweet science of boxing.
Take your pick, immerse and throw yourself into it with as much enthusiasm as you can muster. And never give up, never forget, the people who quit never knew how close to success they truly were when they quit.
Good luck
Aaron
cheers aaron that’s what I was also leaning towards and thinking also along the same lines about knees and elbows and kicks thanks mate ya put things into perspective
I am 52 ,53 in November and I started boxersizing 2 years ago .I am now pretty fit and just learned the snapping punch after reading your articles johnny. .Great information on this site. Got my double end bag a few weeks ago which is so much fun .I am buying a speed ball next ,looking forward to implementing it to my daily workout .I am also doing this boxersizing for confidence as I have none due to very abusive dad as a child.I am suffering from post dramatic stress and depression and boxersizing has helped me so much .I recommend exercising to anyone suffering from mental health .
Keep up the good work johnny ,Best site for information .
Once u get in shape u prob won’t be 200 lbs and I would prob think that at ur height u would be best at middle weight.
I’m 5’8″ 26 years old 200lbs with 17% body fat, I wanted to know if I’m tall enough and young enough to start fighting in the cruiserweight or heavyweight division professionally, I like to fight , I have the heart to do it , I don’t have alot of boxing experience but think I can if I put in the work… I need an experts opinion…
If you think you can do it, DO IT! I’ll help you as best as I can, Steve. 🙂
Hi,I am 25,I just want to go boxing for fun,but I also have not bad physical characteristics…Is it too late,and also is it very dangerous to hurt health like big injuries…I do not speak english very well,but I think everybody can get the meaning what I wrote…I went to gym for app. 2 years during 4 years period with abruptions,will it help?
You’ll be fine, Armen. Train safely and enjoy.
No such thing as too old. I started when I was 19 and most of the people that was training with us and even competing were the same age as our trainers (mid 50’s). Personally I think a lot of the kids that start boxing and even other physically demanding sports at a really young age don’t last long because of the punishment they’ve taken over the years.
It’s true, John. Not only physical punishment but also the psychological punishment. Many of them lose motivation and eventually go into other things when they turn 18 and have the freedom to do whatever they want. I knew several talented fighters who at 18 would rather do anything else than be in a boxing gym because that’s how bored they were of the sport.
give up the smoke, cigarettes, booze n bullshit and you can do anything at any age my friends!
When I was a teenager I used to backyard box with kids I knew, that continued off and on as sparring partners were available until I was old enough to join the nearest boxing gym. I LOVED it. Your trainer will encourage and drive you to work beyond your limits, and when yourealize how much stronger you are then you had thought you will be filled with emotion.
Thus I encoyrage those thinking of boxing to do it. No matter your age
I am now 32 and have wanted to get back to my long lost passion. My concern is not so much age, butmyhealth. I was diagnosed with a neurological condition a few years ago(multiple sclerosis)
When it hit me I lost sensation in my left leg an bothfeet. Also balance is affected when i close my eyes. Mind you I am still strong, my legs have full power, its just that the nerves there arent relaying the message so the sensation is weakness.
Despite that I miss it and I too want to box (again) Good for fitness and self confidence an who knows maybe the first pro title holder with MS? Haha unlikely on the latter but the fun and great lifelong friends make it worth it!
Haha, you never know!
Hey johnny ..first off let me say u and ur vids n website been a great help ..thanks fir thank ..im new to boxing ..very dedicated n u keep me motivated..havin a hard time finding someone to train me tho..can u help..im in chicago il
Search out different boxing gyms and call around. Boxing is a small world and maybe the trainers can give you some suggestions.
Hey johnny i looked at your text. No i dont have any videosat the moment.i plan on training in brazilian jujitsu soon. My wife doesnt want me back in the cage, but like i told her martial arts the only sport that makes me happy. I was born a warrior. ive been kicking and punching from the time i took my first step.lol johnny i fought in the cfc league out of alexandria.la. Now im back inmy home town lake charles.la.
I will be 26 next month and fell in love with sport of boxing I want to become a pro never had any training I’m strong with big hands is 26 too late start and become a champion if not how do I get started
Find a gym and start training, Maurice. Good luck to you! 🙂
Ok young men……I Am 56 and just started boxing. I have done martial arts for most of my life but never boxing and I wanted to learn something completely new. The workouts are great for cardio and you can work to failure a few good times in the training sessions ( just started two weeks ago ) but I look forward to getting my cardios to a point that the rest also starts to fall in place. Oh I am 56, but have the body of a 25 year old gymnast, work pays off!
Ahhh…the gymnast body. Lucky you, Greg.
Thanks Johnny,
Getting stronger day by day, no more gas outs during 3 rounds on the focus mits! One step at a time but I will offer myself as a sparring partner for the lighter weight fighters in the gym in June hahaha let you know how I do.
I was a fighter when I was young, but full contact Karate so have a feel for getting hit! Keep you posted
Greg
Am I too old to box? I had this question floating around in my head, and that’s what brought me here to this page. Now after reading the article and all the encouraging post, it’s safe to safe that I am definitely not too old to start boxing. I’m only 24. I’m not really looking to compete as a boxer, or become spectacular in a ring, or hit others, and I’m already in good shape and health. Instead my desire to box stems from somewhere else. I think everyone in the comments can understand this feeling; that inside of me is the spirit of a warrior, and I yearn to push myself to the limit, not for a win, but to feel the exhaustion of pouring everything I am into a single effort, testing my mind, body and spirit. Feeling the bond and brotherhood uniquely created when two men test each other, not out of hatred, but a love for greatness, to make ourselves and those around us always greater. I’m in college and summer break is weeks away, I plan to go to my local gym and pay for the summer, and hit up the gym every chance available. I’ve trained before but it was short, and I hope to learn a new craft, practice it well, make fun memories, cool friends, and find a bit of myself inside those ropes. I sincerely wish the best for everyone here, men and women, throw on those mitts and go after it! Cheers and God bless!
I boxed through my late late 30’s till 47 years old. You can do this if you are heavyweight class and be encouraged by Foreman who was like 48 and winning a world championship. I will tell you though that your reaction time slows down at about 38. Goes down from there. I love boxing but being over 47 and trying to compete outside the senior division is extremely frustrating! Your mind is in the fight but your mind to hand connection is slowed. You will see an opening and where when you were younger the punch would haveade it into that opening the lag of bing old makes you miss it. Same with defense. This is extremely frustrating. If you start at 47 then you will remember nothing better and for that it would be better for you. So if you want to be a boxer don’t set around thinking about it DO IT. Start as young as you can. Boxing is the best sport and at whatever age there is a place for you.But all the positive thinking in the world is not going to change getting old and boxing will remind you of this quicker than most other sports. Being old and boxing is humbling and can be dangerous if your not able to defend yourself and things just don’t heal and work like they did. 16 oz gloves and headgear sparing is OK but pro? If your over 39 in my opinion your going to get hurt. A mature boxing has a senior division check that out. Pro is scored different and your 16 oz gloves and headgear gibes way to 8oz or so and no headgear. Over 39 and these factors can hurt you bad so take care
One more thing. The lighter your class the sooner you will get out of boxing for reasons pointed out before. I have overcome physical injuries and kept on rocking but getting old sucks and all you can do is go with it. Work with younger kids encourage them to box. Get involved in that if you are 50 and you will find it much more rewarding that positive thinking your way into an ass whooping. Sorry to give the bad news trust me I would love to be 50 and still competing. Anyone telling you to start a pro career at 36 is after your money. If you had not made it by 20 your way behind. I know that today there are at your kids involved…ll these spa type boxing gyms. Try going to a real gym and see how much ring time you get being 30 and just starting out. There is the truth of it. Call me negative or bad attitude or whatever but pro boxing is no joke and out of respect for the sport I spoke the truth. Sad as it is. Give it all in your youth. Do not think you can put it off. Ge your kids involved
johnny i have a few questions message me back asap
Boxing is a game changer for life, my life certainly. Started in my late 30s, and I love this sport more than ever 4 years down the line.
I’m 30, and it is my personal goal to compete in a few amateurs by the end of this year. I enjoy the technical aspect very much, not to mention the mental and physical workout. I started training about a 1.5 years ago by taking a few classes a week. Now I’m going 4-5 times, running about 3 times a week. After sparring today, I realized I’ve got some more work to do.
There are times when I ask myself why am I doing this, risking my body to injury. Why am I the oldest person at my gym wanting to compete? Why not? Hopefully I can use this as an example of determination for my kids. I guess I like the adrenaline and the dynamics. Basically, I can’t stand doing the opposite; going to the gym and lifting. After reading a bunch of comments, I realized I should continue strong with my goal and move on the next challenge in my life, whatever that may be. And if I don’t end up competing, I’m in the best shape of my life and feel great. I’ve come a long way from bring a round kid brought up on fast food.
Hopefully there are “older” folks that still have the drive to compete, or at least get into the sport 🙂
I should say an example of determination for my kids when I have them.
Good day or evening.
I have one question for experts here.
I am 24 years old atm.
Stand at 6,4 to 6,6
Have around 190 lbs
Train basketball since age 12 to age 21 but stop it.
Now looking for some new challenge that come in my life.
Its Boxing. But have one problem. Have destroyed feet the right one. Only can wear deep shoes.
Woneder if i be a good boxer and go like pro even i have problem with this right feet.
I am really fast on my feets. Have strong mind. I am more like fighter inside.
Is it late for me to start train at age 25 and become pro?
If anyone can reply me bc i need good advice.
Thank you.
I am 39 years old. Had been boxing for 9 months when I was in my early 20’s. Restarted when I was 34, and stopped at 36. Bumped into my trainer the other day and I am about to walk into the Club next Monday evening after a 3 year sabbatical, I’m nervous as hell, but it is simply one of the best workouts I’ll have in my life.
My goals have changed from wanting to compete, to just enjoying the workout and maybe get a few sparring sessions in every week to keep the old age spread from appearing.
The young kids will get more attention than I will, due to them competing throughout the season, and that is fair enough. However it’s nice to be able to keep fit when coming up to 40 years old. In my country we have to retire from amateur boxing at 36 years old, and there is no senior class.
If you want to try boxing at any age anyone should be able to give it a go.
Thanks.
I love boxing. I’m 65. I had a three round match when I was 63 with a 43 year old. since I was in shape I was able to outbox the individual. I help train amateur boxers. They don’t want me to spar because they think I could get hurt. Truth be told that when I spar with the inexperienced young guys they try to knock my head off. I weather the storm and after the first round they gasping for air. After the second round I just keep the pressure on and they can’t lift their hands up. third round I could really hurt them but I just let them off the hook and just show them what I could do to them without hurting them. These guys never come back. Now I do pad work and pushups,pullups, situps, knee bends and ride a lot of bycicle. When I do go to the track I sprint for 30 seconds and rest a minute. If I can do it so can you. You just have to love the sport and the training is great. There are gyms in Tennessee where they have older guys fight for three rounds and get prizes. You’re never to old to be what you want to be.
I am 64 years old, never boxed before, am in good health, and would love to start learning how to box! I live in the Washington, DC area. My question is: how should I select a boxing gym that is good for someone my age? I want the exercise, to spar, and would want a place where I would be accepted and feel comfortable.
Look around, Caleb. And see what is nearby your area. See what’s available and try each one for a week.
Hi all,
As you can see, I made a couple of posts on this subject back in 2013…Thought I’d come back and give an update. Well, I’ve been back boxing for over 18 months, ish, I’m now 33 years old (was 32 when I posted on this subject before) and I’ve had 4 fights since then. The guys I fought, in ascending order of age were 22, 23, 25 and 28…I beat all 4, (3 coming via KO) with gas still left in the tank.
I am absolutely, utterly convinced that people let naysayers and conventional opinion talk them out of it. If someone tells you “you’re too old to do anything in this sport” grin at them, and start training anyway, making it your absolute goal to prove them wrong. Don’t let them skim over you in training in order to devote more time to their young stable of fighters. If they do that, find a gym that will give you equal attention and make it your goal to go back and wipe the floor with your old gyms fighters over the course of your boxing career (at whatever level that may be).
Not only did I out-gas, out punch/power those young lads, I out smarted them. I both out FOUGHT and out THOUGHT them. They were so keen to get in and tear the older guy apart that they gave so much away, ultimately leading to their defeat.
I’m currently training for my next fight against a 24 year old guy who has been boxing for 9 years and when people ask if I think I’ll win I always reply “well I’m not going there to lose!”.
I said it before, I’ll say it again, whatever your mind can conceive and believe, it CAN ACHIEVE.
My advice is exactly the same as Johnny’s…find a decent gym that will dedicate the required time to you and has good coaches…and then work your backside off to make things happen…train hard, train smart, eat properly paying close attention to taking quality nutrition with a preference to good, whole foods (i.e real food, using supplements only to SUPPLEMENT), keep your water intake high (keep yourself well hydrated), and pay proper attention to getting adequate rest in your down-time and you can really achieve anything you want to with this sport.
I am 33 years old, having an absolute blast, I’ve found a similar level of camaraderie that I experienced serving as a British Royal Marine Commando…I’ve made great friends, both younger, and older than me through my gym and the competitive boxing scene that I’m now involved with. Seriously, if you’re reading this and considering whether to take the plunge, here is my final bit of advice …turn off the PC, find a gym, get your plan in order with your coach(es) and throw everything you’ve got at this amazing sport…heart, body and soul.
Johnny, thanks for all the articles you post on here…inspirational stuff my friend, and thanks for giving me the push to get back into this sport and push for the best.
Good luck to everyone.
Beautiful story and very inspiring, Aaron. Great job and thank you for sharing.
Well this has been inspiring, thank you. I have a martial arts background – still do Tai Chi but haven’t trained hard in years and I want/need to get back into shape. I’ve been thinking about boxing for a while now.
I hit my 60th birthday in a couple of weeks. I was wondering about the age factor but have had all my questions answered, thank you!
Here we go…..
Hi Johnny N,
Happy new year to all of you outthere 🙂
I know that you have to do roadwork every day, but what do you do when you have myalgia – or muscle pain – do you need to do it anyway and endure the pain – or is it better to take a day off?
I have played soccer on a high level, did three years boxing when I was twenty and thirteen years Muay-Thai and two years Aikido – so I know what it is to train and sport almost every day in a week.
I am thirty-nine years old since last october and I would like to pick up boxing again. By doing eight miles roadwork, jumprope skipping, shadow boxing and more before I go to work, and go to the gym when I have finished working, but when I woke up I have noticed that my leggs have myalgia and I really don’t know what to do?
Looking forward to your reply,
Kind regards,
Daniël
I’m turn to 25 now… gonna start boxing next Monday…hi.. Guy!..trust me I’ll become a champion early 35 ..I’m Asian 5″5 tall 160 lb ..originer country from Burma..I’ll try to get America citizen next year.. Trust me guys!…just remember my name Ser Wah.. I’m gonna be a champ….,!
Hi, 38 years old.
Ii ve never done any fighting sports, stop smoking two months ago and started at that time to hit the heavy bag when i was thinking about smoking.
I follow this site advices and some on an other french channel.
Then i found a boxing gym and go there yesterday.
I hope i will find cool boxers who won t beat me up as i began.
I hade my first sparring a week before with a friend of mind but
Yesterday was my first time in a boxing gym, they let me do a sparring with a pro, he was very humble and take care (too much) of the beginner i am. Just let me boxe and turn around me and givin me advices .
It was a little bit like in rocky or snatch, a very special feeling in this boxing gym located in the hood ( i dont know how to say in english a place not in the rich area of the town)
I will never forget this moment and the unique feeling of being there.
Jumpin rope, hittin bags, the rings…
I don t know how to say, but this sport is ” truth”, impossible to lie to yourself or to the others.
I ve allready done marathons, hockey, football… but the boxers have all my respect, their shape, their training, it s amazing.
About to turn 30 next month and am getting myself in shape before I join a boxing club. I wrestled in high school but didn’t possess the technical skills needed to have a good record but I enjoyed the tough workouts. I just got back from riding a bike across the USA, key west, f.l. to seattle w.a, then Keokuk, i.a. to Sarasota f.l.. (6,000 miles) and figured I want to keep the cardio. If you don’t use it, you lose it. I’m somewhere between wanting to race bikes, box, and do mma. Reading up on all these sports before I choose a path. I know myself and I will want to spar and maybe compete and was wondering if 30 was too old to compete. After reading everyone’s stories I guess it isn’t. Thanks for the encouragement.
I’m turning 39 in July and I don’t feel like I’m too old to be an amateur boxer, because it’s all about doing what you’re passionate about. I’m training now after not really taking seriously for the past three years. I’m looking to get down to 160 because I’m only 5’5
I’m 18 years old I started boxing today can I accomplished to become one of the top boxer.
Hey guys l am 44 still a kid at heart. I did crossfit a few years ago and loved it. My brother trains MMA fighters and lives a regular life. As for me my only street cred is street fighting which l stopped after l hurt some people real bad. My brother though likes to trash talk me a bit not understanding my skills helped him where he is today. I look at MMA that is not a manly fight but if l learn boxing could l shut him up? I defended this poor boy for so long. I am thinking a seniors fight when all said and done. Lol! I am afraid to fight tried wrestling but always went too far. Is boxing a place where you can just go? Not looking for rules just an honest here you are go?
Yes, you can just go there.
Im 18 now, I want to choose my career as a boxer if I start training now can I become a pro boxer??
Yes, you can become a pro boxer. I had friends that started even a little later than that.
Thankyou, bro can I play for nationals if I start training now??
Training now is always going to be the best option for anything that you want to do.
Thankyou bro.
Hey guys, great site. I’m 49 and i have never boxed. Been in fights on the ice in hockey but not many. I was thinking I would like to train and fight once. I’m 6’3″ 210 pounds. I could easily lean down to 195lbs. My biggest concern would be my vision. It’s good when I’m wearing contacts but without its not great. If I’m not fighting professionally would this be a big deal ?
Hi Darc
Been reading the posts on this forum which seems to have gone quiet. Just wanted to share my limited experience. On your question of the contacts, I would say that it generally should not be a problem.
Of course I am saying this because I wear a headgear which has fairly good padding around the eyes. So even though I get jabbed, I think the padding helps in deflecting some of the impact. Of course the best is not get hit.
I lost my left contact only once during a sparring session but I was still moving and sparring fine. My reasoning for this is because I started sparring without contacts so losing one contact is just like going back to vision when I was sparring without contacts.
I just turned 52. Took up boxing about 2 years ago. Am working towards participating in a amateur event in the middle of 2017. Of course there is a Masters’ category (read Senior Category).
Good luck and continue boxing. It is a sports which gives me so much of an adrenaline rush.
Thanks for the positive feed back. I think being near sighted I may be fine without the contacts. I am now being told by friends that having had surgery on my hernia several years ago may make it so I can’t even fight. I’m going for it and I will see the doctor before for a medical. Not going to worry about it yet. Watching the B Hopkins fight last night made me think for a moment but not for too long. Love to punch
I just started boxing at 56 years old. I have been a long time competitive bicyclist and wanted to cross train in another sport during the winter months. I joined an MMA gym and tried several Muay Thai kickboxing classes before concentrating on boxing specific classes. I have found that I am not as quick and agile as my younger classmates, but I have more endurance (from competitive cycling) than most. I have enjoyed boxing so much I am not sure I will be switching back to biking once the weather gets warmer.
Awesome!
I have been boxing a long time. I started back up at age 38 and went to about 42. It is not like it is when you are young. If you remember how it was when you were young then you will remember how your reactions were a lot faster. Getting hit with a punch that you would not have been hit with 20 years ago is frustrating to say the least. I am 53 now and train everyday. I have sparred lightly on occasion trying to show the young guys… It really is time to take what you know and pass it on to someone else. I have pain in my neck every time I hop into the ring wanting to reclaim the former glory.
So you young guys listen up. DO NOT believe that you have all the time in the world to be a boxer. This is BS of tremendous magnitude. While you are young 18,19, 16 give it all you got! Don’t hold anything back, train hard and fight hard because trust me this is the time for you. I love boxing and will always be around it, injuries or no injuries I am in the gym everyday but don’t think for a second that your ever going to get a do over in boxing.
I’m excited to see these comments. I’m almost 51 and took my first lesson this morning. Really enjoyed it. looking forward to learning a sport that I’ve admired for a long time but never had the chance to practice.
Hi Johnny, what do you think are some advantages in starting boxing late (like in your mid or late teens) provided you want to get in amateur and pro competition? I think it’s better to start when you are wiser and not so used up like those who started at 8-10. What’s your take?
Hi Ray, the biggest advantage for me, is that you have more motivation and joy in the sport when you start later in your teens. There are many kids who start at like 4-8 years old and by the time they become a teen, they’re like amazing trained professionals except only by then, they HATE BOXING. It’s like this thing that they were forced to go to church everyday. They’re good at it but don’t enjoy it at all. And at that age with the newfound freedom they have, the last thing they want to do is be stuck in a boxing gym. Any accomplishments in the sport that they might get is meaningless to them since they’ve been winning trophies all the time.
I did some boxing training around 20 years ago and got back to it last year when I caught sight of my profile in a full length mirror and realised my belly was sagging. I wasn’t overweight at around 68kg – but it needed to be toned.
For myself, exercise was only going to work if it was a matter of going to a class as I would never have had the motivation on my own.
Also the activity had to be something I enjoyed. I do not enjoy running and would not have the motivation on my own.
I decided that I liked hitting things that didn’t hit back (pads and bags are good) so re-started boxing training.
After about 6 months the chance to enter a charity fundraiser White Collar event came up. I went for it and trained five times a week for two months in the lead up.
I stepped into the ring for my first contest at the age of 56 (and won against a guy 10 years younger)
I’m still training five times a week and helping out training the next White Collar group. I’ve even said i’ll step in as an opponent if there is a matching problem basically because there is a guy in that group who is 64!
Which is best age to start boxing.
May sound crazy but I’m 39 & I just wanna box & I know what I’m willing to put into it! Train me please I promise I’m worth it
Just because you want to train, doesn’t mean you have to fight. Training in boxing is one of the best exercises you can find. So regardless of your age, training in boxing is great for your health