Discipline, endurance, and team spirit; formula for boxing triumph

Sports play a significant role in the overall development of a student. Apeejay Education believes in providing holistic growth to its students. Recently, the students of Apeejay School, Kharghar, participated enthusiastically in the CBSE Zone II Boxing Competition where six medals were bagged by its skilled students — five Bronze and one Silver.

In a candid interview, mentor Devendra Aswal, PGT, Physical Education of the school emphasised the importance of discipline and endurance which guided the students toward well-deserved success.

How did you choose the boys and their training process? 

To begin with, three students showed interest but later I took more students from classes IX to XII taking the total to 13. I am happy that the 10 boys who participated made the school proud as six of them won the medals.

How was their training, and for how long did they train? 

I selected these students this year and trained them. The best part is that they were ready by June. I used to train them in the morning from 6:30-8 am and in the afternoons – within the school premises.

What kind of support did the school provide? 

The school is always ready to lend a supporting hand, especially the Principal. We were permitted to train indoors as it is perfect for boxing. We were permitted to use the stage, a perfect height for a boxing ring, so I was able to simulate a real ring. The Principal also motivates the students, and she supports us in every tournament.

What potential did you see in the boys that made you feel they were suited for boxing? 

I selected them based on components like strength and endurance. After that, I provided basic boxing training. Basic elements include footwork, hand strength, and flexibility. These are components of fitness. Some of the students had experience in football, which gave them an advantage in footwork, a critical element in boxing.

Boxing is often seen as violent. How much truth is there in this perception? 

Boxing isn’t as violent as people think. It’s more about scoring points by touching the face. Outside the ring, it’s all about sportsmanship. For instance, Abir Maurya was awarded the ‘Promising Boxer’ award for his sportsmanship even after losing in the semi-finals.

What are some myths about boxing? 

One myth is that boxing is too dangerous. Starting at the right age — around eight years old — is crucial. It takes about 10 years of preparation for a sport like boxing to reach the Olympics. We need to begin at this age to develop their potential in any sport, depending on their physical abilities.

What are some do’s and don’ts in boxing? 

The main ‘do’ is to only box during training and not misuse the skills outside. Boxing should improve a person’s temperament and reduce aggression. We should avoid fighting outside of training.

What are the benefits of boxing for students? 

Boxing provides full-body exercise, it improves fitness and posture. It can help students release aggression. It also develops both physical and mental aspects, including neuromuscular development. It helps with physical and mental development, including concentration and discipline.

Any specific diet the boys need to follow for boxing? 

I didn’t ask them to change their diet completely, but I advised them to increase their protein intake to match their body weight (e.g., 60 kg requires 120 grams of protein). This can be done through eggs, chicken, pulses, milk, fruits, and other sources.