Rookies & Contenders
Our Youth Boxing program is built for kids and teens who want to move, learn real skills, and feel more confident— without the pressure of getting in the ring. Rookies & Contenders blends age-appropriate boxing fundamentals, movement, and discipline in a safe, fun, and structured environment.
Contenders: older or more experienced
Who Youth Boxing Is For
Youth Boxing is a great fit for kids and teens who want a positive outlet, enjoy moving, and are curious about boxing—but don’t need to be in a competitive fight gym to benefit from the training.
If your child has energy to burn, likes to learn new skills, or would benefit from structure and clear expectations, this program was designed with them in mind.
Rookies are typically younger or newer to organized training. The focus is on building coordination, following directions, and learning the basics in a fun, supportive way.
- Stance and guard
- Forward, backward, and side steps
- Basic punches (jab and cross)
- Simple combos like 1–2 and 1–2–1
- Light bag taps and short shadowboxing rounds
- Games and drills that build balance and body awareness
Contenders are older or more experienced youth who are ready for a little more challenge while still staying in a safe, non-contact environment.
- More complex footwork and angles
- 3–4 punch combinations (1–2–3, 1–2–3–2, etc.)
- Intro to head movement: slips, rolls, level changes
- High–low combinations (head and body shots)
- Light strength and core training with bodyweight, bands, and light weights
- Sessions that feel more “athlete-style” while still approachable
Program Overview
Youth Boxing meets twice per week and follows the same weekly themes as our adult Champs Training Camp, adapted for kids and teens. Each session blends skill work, movement, and games in an environment that encourages effort, respect, and growth.
Across the weeks, your child will work on:
- Footwork & Angles – learning to move, balance, and stay in stance
- Basic Combos – simple 2–3 punch combinations built step-by-step
- Body Shots & High–Low Awareness – changing levels safely and under control
- Core & Movement – games and drills that build strength, coordination, and posture
The goal is not just to make them tired—it’s to help them move better, feel more confident, and build skills they can carry into other sports and into everyday life.
What a Typical Class Looks Like
Each Youth Boxing session follows a predictable rhythm so kids know what to expect and can settle into the routine:
1. Huddle & Warm-Up
We start with a quick huddle to share the theme for the day—things like “balance,” “angles,” or “high–low awareness.” Then we move into simple warm-up drills: marching, footwork steps, light shadowboxing, and basic movement prep.
2. Block 1 – Skill Focus
The first work block focuses on one key skill—stance, footwork, straight punches, body shots, or level changes. Rookies and Contenders work on the same theme with age-appropriate variations.
3. Block 2 – Combos & Games
We layer combinations and reaction drills:
- Rookies: simple combos and “coach calls the number” style games
- Contenders: structured 3–4 punch combos and high–low patterns
4. Block 3 – Strength, Core, or Movement
When time allows, we finish with light strength and core work:
- Bodyweight squats or split stance holds
- Band pulls or rotations
- Light kettlebell or dumbbell drills for older youth
5. Cooldown & Wrap-Up
We end with easy stretching, breathing, and a simple “win of the day” or encouragement so kids leave feeling proud of what they accomplished.
Safety, Structure, and What We Value
Youth Boxing is run with clear expectations and a strong emphasis on safety and respect. Parents can relax knowing:
- No sparring. Youth classes do not include sparring or live contact rounds.
- No head contact. Kids work with bags, mitts, and controlled pad work only.
- Coach-led drills. Every drill is explained, demonstrated, and supervised.
- Age-appropriate strength work. We use light loads, bands, and bodyweight—not maximal lifting.
Along the way, we reinforce:
- Listening and following directions
- Respect for coaches, classmates, and the space
- Working hard and not quitting when it gets challenging
- Encouraging teammates and celebrating effort
Is Youth Boxing Right for My Child?
Youth Boxing may be a great fit if your child:
- Has extra energy and needs a positive outlet
- Is curious about boxing or enjoys combat sports, but isn’t ready for full-contact training
- Wants to feel more athletic or more confident in their body
- Benefits from structure, routine, and clear expectations
- Enjoys learning new skills in a small-group, coach-led setting
If you’re unsure which group (Rookies or Contenders) is best, we’ll help place them based on age, maturity, and experience—and can adjust as they grow.