So, you’ve decided to start boxing—awesome choice! But now you’re staring at all the gear and wondering, “What do I actually need to get started?” Trust me, you’re not the only one. When I first walked into a boxing gym, I thought I could get by with just a pair of boxing gloves and some enthusiasm.
Turns out, there’s a bit more to it.
As a beginner, it’s easy to get caught up in all the gadgets and gizmos, but let’s keep it simple. From hand wraps to the right pair of boxing shoes, I’ve got the lowdown on the essential boxing gear for beginners.
We’ll cover everything you need to start boxing without breaking the bank or overcomplicating things.
So, grab a coffee (or maybe a protein shake), and let’s break down the must-have boxing equipment that’ll have you feeling like a champ in no time!
TL;DR
The Must-Haves
- Boxing Gloves
- Hand wraps
- Boxing Shoes
- Punching Bag
Other Equipment;
- Mouthguard
- Headgear
- Jump Rope
The Must-Haves
Boxing Gloves: The First Essential
Before you start throwing punches like you’re in a Rocky montage, let’s talk about the first piece of gear you’ll need: boxing gloves. Now, I’ll be honest—I once tried boxing with a cheap pair I found online, thinking, “How different could they be?” Spoiler alert: very different. My knuckles weren’t too happy with me after that!
As a beginner, you might be tempted to grab the first flashy gloves you see, but trust me, there’s more to it. You need gloves that fit well, protect your hands, and last longer than a few rounds on the punching bag. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between comfort and durability.
When choosing your pair, consider what you will be using them for as this might affect the oz you want to buy. For example, if you are mainly training on the heavy bag, 12oz gloves will be right for you (also depending on your hand size and weight). We have a guide for to choosing the perfect boxing glove size for you.
Lucky for you, we’ve also created a guide to the best boxing gloves out there for training and competing!
Hand Wraps: Protect your hands
Now that you’ve got your boxing gloves sorted, let’s move on to something equally important: boxing hand wraps. If you’re like I was when I first started boxing, you might think hand wraps are just another piece of equipment to make you look cool. But trust me, these little strips of fabric do a lot more than just make you look like a pro—they protect the tiny bones in your hands and provide wrist support.
If you’re unsure which type of hand wraps to buy, check out our guide. Hand wraps are a must for a boxer.
Think of them as the unsung heroes of your boxing gear. Without proper hand protection, that powerful punch could turn into a painful mistake.
Hand wraps are going to save you from a ton of injuries, these combined with a good pair of training gloves is a game changer! Using traditional hand wraps to wrap your hands can be annoying, but trust me, it will become second nature after a few boxing sessions.
Boxing Shoes: Better that footwork
Alright, so you’ve got your hands protected—now let’s talk feet. Boxing shoes might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re thinking about boxing gear, but trust me, they’re just as important as those gloves. When I first started out, I figured I could get away with wearing my regular sneakers. Big mistake!
After slipping around the ring like I was on ice skates, I quickly realized that proper boxing shoes are a game-changer. Plus, I destroyed my favorite pair of gym shoes!
Footwork is everything in boxing. Whether you’re dodging a punch, pivoting for a counter, or just trying to stay balanced, the right shoes will keep you grounded—literally.
Boxing shoes are designed with thin, grippy soles that allow you to move quickly and confidently without slipping. If you’re stuck deciding if boxing shoes are for you, take a look at our recent boxing shoes article, where we dive into the features and whether you really need them.
If you’ve already decided you’re ready to buy your shiny new boxing shoes, check out our article on the best boxing shoes of 2024.
Boxing Punching Bag: Work On Those Punches
Now that you’ve got your gloves, hand wraps, and shoes ready to go, it’s time to talk about the big guy—the boxing bag. If you’re serious about boxing training, a good punching bag is a must-have. When I first started, I thought any bag would do, but after a few rounds of hitting a rock-hard bag that barely moved, I realized there was a lot more to it.
Whether you’re looking to improve your power, speed, or endurance, the right boxing bag can make all the difference. And here’s a fun fact: there are actually different types of punching bags for different training purposes. (Yep, we’ve even covered this for you in another article)
Knowing which one to choose can help you tailor your workouts to your specific goals.
Other Equipment
As you gear up for your boxing journey, don’t forget about the other essential equipment that can elevate your training. While boxing gloves and hand wraps are crucial, there are a few more pieces of gear that can make a world of difference.
First up is the mouthguard—your best friend for protecting those pearly whites while you’re throwing punches. Then there’s headgear, which is a must if you plan to spar and want to keep your noggin safe from accidental hits. And let’s not overlook the jump rope; it’s a fantastic tool for improving your footwork and cardio, plus it’s a lot of fun!
So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your boxing training, these items are well worth considering.
Mouthguard: Protect That Winning Smile
Let’s talk about a little piece of equipment that can make a big difference: the mouthguard!
If you think boxing is all about throwing punches, think again. It’s also about keeping your smile intact!
Imagine landing a powerful punch only to have your tooth go flying like it’s trying to escape the ring. Not ideal, right? A good mouthguard not only protects your teeth but also helps absorb impact, so you can focus on your boxing technique without worrying about dental disasters.
Whether you’re sparring or just working on your bag work, a mouthguard is an essential part of your gear. So, don’t skip this little hero in your boxing equipment!
Headgear: Safety First
Now, let’s dive into another essential piece of equipment: boxing headgear!
If you’re planning to spar, this is a must-have for protecting your noggin. Trust me, you don’t want to be the person who learns the hard way that boxing isn’t just a sport; it’s a contact sport!
I remember my first sparring session. I thought I was invincible—until I took a light jab to the head that felt like a wake-up call. I quickly realized that headgear isn’t just for show; it’s your best friend in the ring.
If you’re unsure which type to buy, check our headgear article which covers everything you need to know.
Not only does it shield your head from accidental punches, but it also gives you the confidence to practice your boxing technique without holding back. So, if you’re serious about your boxing journey, don’t skimp on this crucial gear!
Jump Rope: Your New Favorite Cardio Tool
Let’s not forget about the jump rope—your secret weapon for becoming a boxing superstar!
Sure, it may seem like a childhood toy, but don’t let that fool you. Jumping rope is a fantastic way to build endurance, improve footwork, and get your heart racing faster than a kid chasing an ice cream truck! Plus its a vital part of your boxing workout and it is great for warming up your body.
I’ll never forget the first time I picked up a jump rope for my boxing training. I confidently thought I could breeze through it, only to find myself tripping over the rope like I was auditioning for a slapstick comedy. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t ready for the workout it delivered!
Incorporating jump rope into your routine can seriously boost your boxing skills, especially your footwork while keeping things fun. So grab that rope and start skipping your way to success!
Final Thoughts
As we wrap things up, it’s clear that having the right boxing equipment can make all the difference in your training journey.
From the essential boxing gloves to the often-overlooked mouthguard, each piece plays a vital role in keeping you safe and helping you improve.
Remember, boxing isn’t just about throwing punches; it’s about building skills, confidence, and a solid foundation for your future in the ring.
So whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your technique, investing in quality gear will set you up for success.
Don’t forget to enjoy the process and have fun while you’re at it—after all, boxing is a great way to challenge yourself and stay fit!
FAQs
What basic boxing equipment do I need to start?
To get started, you’ll need a good pair of boxing gloves and hand wraps These essentials will keep you safe and help you practice effectively. This is the essential boxing equipment for beginners.
As you progress further into your boxing journey, you can invest more money into other equipment that you might need for boxing like a mouthguard and headguard. Many boxing beginners may not even go to the lengths of buying shoes and a mouthguard if they are just training for fitness, but this is completely your choice.
How do I choose the right boxing gloves?
Look for gloves that fit snugly and feel comfortable. Consider your weight and the type of training you’ll do. If you plan to spar, opt for gloves with more padding. We have a complete guide covering everything you need to know for choosing your perfect boxing gloves.
There are many options of boxing gloves for beginners, so do your research and invest in a good quality pair. Remember your boxing training equipment will have an impact on your performance.
Can I train at home without a gym?
Absolutely! You can practice shadow-boxing, use a punching bag, and even jump rope at home. Just make sure you have enough space and the right equipment.
Boxing is a relatively easy sport when it comes to equipment, so you don’t need all the fancy stuff that other sports require such as Muay Thai or BJJ. Boxing at home is a great idea for beginners before they are ready to step into the gym.
How often should I train as a beginner?
Aim for 1-2 times a week at least when you’re just starting out. This will help you build your skills and fitness without overwhelming yourself.
