F.A.Q.
What will I learn?
You will learn the proper fundamentals and correct principles of boxing. This includes not only the techniques of our movements, but also the fitness, strength and conditioning practices of what we do in order to be able to box.
What if I want to do this, but I’m intimated?
That’s a perfectly natural response for some. The best thing I can tell you is we prioritize inclusion and truly don’t align with or tolerate bullies or toxic personalities in the gym. I’m confident, you’ll see/feel that for yourself the first day you start.
If I just want to train to learn to box and get in shape, are the techniques I’ll be learning different than what the fighters learn?
Absolutely not. The integrity of the fundamentals can’t be compromised, and no coach is doing you any favors if they just run you through the motions because you don’t intend to compete and allow you to get away with techniques which aren’t fundamentally sound. I’ve learned coaches who “take it easy” on those with fitness goals and idly sit back and allow them to get away with improper techniques can instill a false sense of security in the person which can have very harmful consequences. I’m very opinionated about this and I know with some coaches the culture for retention is to allow them to stay comfortable, have fun and not push them too hard because they’ll quit training (paying). In my opinion, this is unacceptable and inadequate coaching. This is one of the reasons why I take the time to explain all this as thoroughly as possible here.
Do we train hard every day?
This isn’t a boot camp structure where you are pushed to your limits every single day. While those are great programs, and at times you will certainly be expected to push very hard, it’s not safe or realistic to think that we can sustain stressing our bodies out to extreme degrees every single training session. Learning is important, especially in the beginning and this journey is physical, mental and emotional in varying degrees depending on the day. Simply put, some days we learn more than we work and vice versa, which is what it takes to truly embrace and cultivate the teachings and lessons of this sport.
What if I have injuries or physical limitations?
Communication is key as is your safety. Almost everyone has something at some time, some more serious than others. This is very important to communicate openly to ensure that we structure your training in the best way possible.
Do I need to be in good shape to start this?
Over the years, people will call or stop by to ask about training and after telling them what we do, some will say “I’m going to get in shape first and then come train with you.” We generally never see that person again. Frankly, pretty much EVERYONE who starts doing this isn’t “in shape” in the specific manner required for this and that’s where we start from. It’s definitely not our expectation for new members to show up in peak physical condition for boxing.
Do I have to fight?
While we have both professional and amateur fighters who compete all over the country and some even the world, NO you don’t have to spar or fight, nor will you ever be expected or pressured to.
Do I have to be athletic?
From a coaches standpoint, it’d be a dream come true if every person who walked through the door was a stellular athlete ready to be molded, but that’s not realistic. Just like the fact that because someone is athletic doesn’t guarantee they’ll be a great boxer, it also doesn’t ever mean that someone who isn’t considered naturally athletic won’t be a great boxer.
Do I have to be tough?
While being tough is admirable, the definition isn’t just limited to physicality. Mental toughness exists and, in this journey, people delve into that mental toughness and pull from within to achieve results in ways which they may have never previously experienced. Without truly challenging yourself, how do you really know how tough you are?
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What does Deadgame mean?
Gameness, perseverance, grit and the will to succeed. To refuse to accept the belief of failure.
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How long does it take to learn to box?
That depends on to what degree. Having been doing this since 1996, I’m still learning. I’m not the coach today that I was 10 years ago and we never stop growing and learning. As with anything else, you’ll get out what you put in. It’s about lifestyle changes and your level of commitment. Everyone learns at a different rate. What you do OUT of the gym in your day to day life is just as, if not more important than what you do in the gym.