The Art of Shadowboxing

If you were a kid growing up in Brooklyn, NYC, there was only one name that made you get a pair of boxing gloves, jump rope or show up in the gym wearing all black: Mike Tyson. There wasn't a person that I can think of growing up that wasn't inspired to knock another grown man out in the first round. Quickly we realized that boxing is one of the most physically demanding sports of all time. It takes balance, accuracy, stamina, strength, and copious amounts of training just to name a few.

One of the best workouts that required no weights that I was introduced to was shadowboxing. This is the technique of facing your shadow, a mirror, or an imaginary foe to spar with. Just like any other physical art form, it takes some getting used to before you'll feel truly comfortable. After all, how do you plan to defeat yourself? Funny thing is, that's kind of the point!

Your shadow is just as fast, just as strong, and can spar as long as you can. The challenge begins when you start to notice yourself over time. You start to see your shadow is a little quicker, a little more defined with technique, and can spar a little longer. You start to slip punches because you know they're coming. You start to challenge yourself and in turn, keep up with yourself.

Also, hitting a bag always makes a connection. What about when you miss? Shadowboxing helps you to keep control while throwing punches so that you don't put yourself in an awkward position. Control over your bodyweight is one of the key essentials to boxing. It can be the difference between taking a punch or taking a knockout blow. There are many times where technique trumps power. Shadowboxing can be a major difference.

If you've never had shadowboxing in your boxing or kickboxing workout routine the challenge yourself to a couple 2-minute rounds within your routine to get yourself comfortable. Build up on time and intensity and you will see, feel, and notice yourself level up in your training. I hope this article taught you something new and above all else...Keep Pushin!