Boxing involves a lot of upper bodywork and a lot of lower body movement. In order to have great synergy between them, you will need a strong core.

A strong core is a huge asset for any boxer at any level. This is the secret to having power behind each punch. On top of that, great core strength also means being able to absorb body blows better which is a huge plus if you’re competing. 

Developing your body’s core is easier said than done though. Fortunately, we can help you do just that through proper training in the gym. While out of the gym, here are some core workouts for boxing you can do as well.

Core Workouts for Boxing: Bicycle Crunches

Not only does this build your core, but it is also great for improving your overall athletic movement as well. It is able to hone your coordination.

To do this, you lay down on your back, ideally on a training mat. Place your hands behind your head. Now, bring your left elbow up towards your right knee while lifting and bending your right leg as well. Do this on the opposite side as well. 

Remember to fully engage your core as you continuously do each crunch.

Core Workouts for Boxing: Alternating Plank

Planking is a great workout already to strengthen your core, but if it doesn’t give you enough challenge anymore, you can level it up by doing an alternating plank.

Start by getting on a normal plank position. Once you are comfortable, slowly raise your left arm forward and your right leg at the same time. Hold this position for a few seconds, go back to starting position, then do the same thing with your other arm and leg.

Repeat this process 10 times for each arm.

Core Workouts for Boxing: Leg Raises

Now for a basic ab exercise, that’s easy to do but still very effective are leg raises. This targets your lower abs which can be quite difficult with other workouts.

You start this by laying on your back. Keep your hands by the side of your body to support yourself. Engage your abs then slowly raise both of your legs. Slowly bring them back down to starting position while keeping your core engaged.

The important part here is controlling the movement and not just letting your legs fall back to the ground. 

Core Workouts for Boxing: Russian Twists

This is a very popular core workout for boxers as it engages your entire abdominal area. Some of the best boxers in the world incorporate this into their training all the time.

To do this, start by sitting down on the ground. You then try to recline your back a bit and raise your legs slightly off the mat. The idea is basically you are balancing on your buttocks. You then twist your body left and right as you engage your core.

To add more difficulty and challenge, you can incorporate weights into the exercise.

Core Workouts for Boxing: Ab Crunches

Simple, straightforward, and a classic. Ab crunches have been and is still one of the most effective workouts when it comes to strengthening your core.

To do this, lay down on a mat. Engage your core and lift your upper body off the ground towards your knees. Again, you can add more difficulty to this workout by incorporating weights or doing certain variations.

Learn more great core workouts for boxing by joining us today!