Boxing may be a violent sport, but its popularity stems from how accessible it is to individuals and families without a lot of money. The equipment needed to get started in the sport is relatively inexpensive, and a lot of apparel is optional for beginners or children. The only piece of equipment that is not debatable is boxing gloves, which help protect the hands of boxers as much as they do the heads and bodies of those on the receiving end of the punches.
Step 1
Look for boxing gloves that fit a youth boxer's hands. Many manufacturers offer smaller versions for young boxers. Gloves can weigh anywhere from 5 to 22 oz., and the ideal weight depends entirely on how strong a child is. The best weight is whatever your child can wear with relative ease. It is not recommended that children get the lightest gloves possible, because weighted gloves are beneficial in two ways: They help strengthen a child's arms and reduce the amount of force a youth boxer can put behind his punch, effectively softening the punches delivered to an opponent. Gloves should also be double-padded for youth boxers.
Step 2
Put the gloves on a young boxer's hands, and have her make some practice punches in the air. This move will help her gauge the weight and fit of the gloves. Gloves should fit snugly on the hand to prevent slipping during a bout.
Step 3
Select sparring gloves for the young player. These gloves have extra padding and help young players train each other in the ring. The typical weight for these gloves is 14 oz. However, younger players may not be able to handle this weight and may need to choose gloves of a lower weight. Whatever the case, sparring gloves should be several ounces heavier than standard boxing gloves.
Step 4
Purchase boxing shorts or shoes, if needed. Many children do not need to buy any special equipment for the lower body, but in case your child does not have anything suitable to wear in the ring, find a pair of athletic shorts with an elastic waistband, and check with the local gym to make sure normal athletic shoes are allowed. Different gyms may have different rules about the types of shoes -- if any -- that are permitted on various training surfaces. Make sure whatever your child uses is in line with the gym's rules.
Tips and Warnings
- Most young boxers are required by boxing gyms to wear helmets or protective headgear, but the gyms often provide this equipment, so it does not need to be purchased.
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