Boxing is addictive. It will hook you in when you’re least expecting it. Many sports are highly addictive, as they help release happy hormones in our brains. As a result, you constantly think about them. In addition, these activities often force you to think and act quickly, sometimes involving a sense of risk.
If you’re obsessed with boxing, don’t worry, we’ve all been there. I’ve felt this obsession control my life many times before. While some people will claim this obsession isn’t helpful, I believe it is. The amount of progression you’ll experience when you’re obsessed is astounding.
So, what is obsession precisely? According to Oxford, “an idea or thought that continually preoccupies or intrudes on a person’s mind.”
You’ll know whether you have an obsession with boxing when you read this definition. Well, then, let’s get back to our topic.
Keeping your obsession with fighting—can help you achieve more in less time. In addition, you’ll constantly be thinking about ways you optimize your training and learn faster.
One of the ways to know you’re obsessed is that you’re watching YouTube boxing videos. I had that feeling when I first started training Muay Thai and when I bought my first motorcycle. Both had me hooked on these two activities. Preferably, we’ll describe these ways in further detail.
This article will examine the most common symptoms of boxing obsession. Likewise, it’ll explain why having this type of obsession is not only healthy but also helpful.
Before we dive in, here’s a video I did on the topic: do check it out to understand the topic better!
#1 – You can’t wait to attend the next boxing class
The first sign you’re hooked on boxing is that you can’t wait to attend the next class. You’re constantly thinking about what you learned. And thus, you’re eager to come back and start fresh.
This feeling will fade with time. I’m confident in this because I’ve experienced the same feeling with any activity I ever started. And, unfortunately, you can’t counter it and keep your motivation in its prime all the time.
There is one thing you can do, and that is to understand the following concept:
Action leads to motivation, which leads to results. Unfortunately, most people think the opposite is true. Motivation leads to action leads to results.
But action is the thing you should be focusing on. Motivation will eventually fade. The only factor you have control over is action. And still, most people think the opposite is accurate, and thus, they finally give up.
But, in the beginning, you’ll be as eager as ever to attend the training session. You’ll wake up early to get to your boxing gym.
However, some people who have worked on their mindsets hard enough will remain eager to learn and practice. Hence, you can keep your motivation tank full if you understand that action leads to motivation and not the other way around.
#2 – You’re watching YouTube boxing videos
We all watch YouTube once in a while, as it’s a platform that allows you to do whatever you want. For example, it will enable you to learn if you’re interested in a topic.
Likewise, it provides you with the best entertainment out there.
So, it’s only common sense that you’ll watch plenty of boxing breakdowns and fights if you’re obsessed over it.
I went through about 4 hours of raw footage when I began my Muay Thai training. That’s how I progressed exceptionally quickly, especially for someone who never learned how to kick.
You might first watch beginner’s guides on punching and standing correctly. Then, however, you’ll slowly progress to more advanced materials once you have gone through the fundamentals.
YouTube is a fantastic platform you can use to learn anything you want. It’ll help you progress and learn faster in your fighting journey, leading to more results.
If you want to learn the basics of boxing, I wrote a complete beginner’s boxing guide. Follow the link to read it!
And if you want to watch a YouTube video that explains the 4 basic punches, watch the video below.
#3 – You bought home boxing equipment
You have recently started your fighting journey. However, you couldn’t wait for the next class anymore. So, you bought a punching bag, gloves, and hand wraps for your home.
You might be one of the obsessed boxers who bought home equipment. I currently have a punching bag I purchased a few years ago. Of course, hand wraps and boxing gloves are a must if you’re boxing.
This is a perfect sign of someone who wants to keep learning and not wait for the next boxing class. So if you have a punching bag at your home, congratulations, you’re obsessed (in a good way!)
If you’re considering getting a punching bag for your home, I highly recommend you buy this punching bag. (Amazon)
#4 – You watch boxing fights
Watching boxing fights at your will is a perfect sign you’re obsessed with this beautiful sport. This martial art is on top of the food chain when examining the most popular martial arts.
By the way, if you want to know which martial arts are most popular, follow the link.
But, spoiler alert, boxing is the world’s second most popular fighting style. Mixed Martial Arts, MMA, has the most viewers.
Boxing is still growing, although most people believe that it’s declining. I know it’s past its golden age, But you’ll still be able to find a good fight or two; all you must do is search for upcoming fights, and you’ll find at least one you love.
If you watch boxing fights, you’re likely hooked on this sport.
I do have one note I want to add. Avoid becoming a viewer. Don’t stop boxing and start following the competitive scene. Every boxer can turn pro if one wants to. So, don’t give up training for the enjoyment and entertainment of watching professional and amateur fights.
#5 – You’re breaking down boxing techniques
The last sign you’re obsessed with boxing is that you’re constantly breaking down boxing techniques. That means you’re always examining other boxers’ techniques and actions.
I find it suitable to break down techniques on YouTube. Then, you can slow down the fight or the instructional video to mimic what the instructor or boxer is performing.
It’ll be best if you don’t overdo it, as you’ll get tired of it quicker. Instead, let your excitement rule over you, as if you’re not wasting too much fuel (And yes, I love the fuel tank analogy.)
Final words
I want to show my appreciation for the martial art of boxing, for it has changed my life; it might do the same to yours.
Starting is difficult. However, you will get hooked once you learn the basic moves. You’ll know you’re obsessed over it once you experience the symptoms I mentioned in this article.
The benefits of boxing are plenty. First, it’ll help grow your physical and mental selves. As such, don’t hesitate to start learning, so you’ll notice these changes in yourself.
If you want to read about the benefits of boxing, follow the link!