Boxing Pro Johnny Clooney shares some tough love
London based Boxer Johnny Clooney knows all too well how intimidating getting in the ring can feel, especially for beginner boxers. After all, he started as a beginner himself. Though he is on a mission to make the full body workout and ultimate fitness boost accessible to everyone. “Anyone can box, it’s all about having the right mindset and the hardest part is getting yourself to the training sessions” he says, having just returned from a PT session with one of his dedicated clients.
Thinking of giving it a go? Or always on the lookout for ways to improve your training? He sits down for a cuppa to share a few top tips for training to unleash your inner boxer.
- Make a start
“Look, it’s easy to put fitness off to next week and prioritise other bits and bobs though the reality is you have to make a start” Johnny says, having gone through periods of not training himself and always feeling better for “getting stuck back in” If you have been out of training a while or totally new to the fitness game, the best thing to do is start slow. Walk more, take a short jog, book one class. As soon as you start to feel the benefits your body will naturally want more of it. If you are unsure where to start or need some motivation, book a PT with one of Boxbaby’s top rated London trainers for a bespoke fitness plan and all the support and encouragement you need to keep going – and get results.
- Breathe
A simple one right? Though Johnny shares one of the first things he notices when training his boxing clients is how they hold their breath. “The more you breathe naturally, the body relaxes and you are more in flow” he says. Learning to tap into the natural rhythm of your breath can transform your fitness both in and of the boxing gym. When you are breathing properly, your footwork and technique gets stronger and you do not fatigue so quickly. “Good things happen when you are breathing properly” says Johnny so, take a deep breath – and book that class.
- Hydrate
With Summer coming up, this is a good time to remind you to fill up your water bottle. Staying hydrated is key when breaking a sweat, “You need to drink fluid during exercise to replace the fluids you lose when you sweat. That way, you’ll reduce the risk of heat stress, maintain normal body function, and maintain performance levels” Getting a refillable bottle is a great investment for your Summer fitness and “drink during and after every workout” says Johnny. Energy drinks are sometimes loaded with crap and sugar so try and choose natural alternatives, “water and coconut water are great” Johnny says, finishing the last of his tea. Both are loaded with essential minerals that your body loses through sweat, especially in the warmer months and spending a lot more time in the sunshine. And with that, he’s off to get ready for his next client before chilling in the sun himself. After all, “downtime is as important as training” he says, slipping back behind his sunglasses. Wise words indeed.
The Cool Down
These are great tips for wherever you are at with your fitness journey. We all have to start somewhere, if you are looking to get going and book your first boxing class or take your training to the next level, Boxbaby offers a great range of options to suit your commitment level. Head here to check out the options from single classes, packages to monthly memberships. Just remember to keep breathing and bring your water bottle!
