Walking into a boxing gym for the first time can be intimidating. The rhythmic sounds of speed bags, the thud of gloves hitting heavy bags, and the sight of experienced boxers moving with confidence might make you wonder: “Do I belong here?”
At Cubanoboxing, our answer is an emphatic “Yes!” Everyone starts somewhere, and we’ve designed our beginner program to welcome you regardless of your fitness level or prior experience.
Here’s what you can expect during your first month with us:
Week 1: Building the Foundation
Your First Class
Your journey begins with proper hand wrapping—a crucial skill that protects your hands and wrists. Our instructors will guide you through this process patiently until you’re comfortable doing it yourself.
Next comes the basic stance: feet positioned correctly, knees slightly bent, hands up protecting your face, chin tucked. These fundamentals might seem simple, but they’re the building blocks of everything that follows.
“I was nervous about looking foolish, but the coaches spent extra time with me to make sure I felt comfortable with the basics. By the end of my first class, I was already throwing proper jabs!” — Maria, Cubanoboxing member since 2024
The Initial Movements
During your first week, you’ll focus primarily on:
The jab and straight right/left (depending on your stance)
Proper pivoting and weight transfer
Basic defensive movements (slips and blocks)
Introductory conditioning drills
Don’t worry about speed or power yet—our focus is on helping you develop proper form from day one.
Week 2: Finding Your Rhythm
By your second week, the initial awkwardness begins to fade. You’ll notice improvements in your coordination and start to feel more confident with the basic punches.
Expanding Your Arsenal
This week introduces:
Hook punches to the body and head
Beginning combination work (2-3 punch sequences)
Footwork drills for mobility
Defensive movement combined with punches
Building Conditioning
Your cardiovascular capacity will be tested but in a controlled way that allows for consistent improvement. Many beginners report significant increases in stamina even by the end of week two.
“I couldn’t believe how quickly my endurance improved. What left me gasping for air in week one was manageable by week two, and I could tell my technique was getting sharper.” — James, Cubanoboxing member
Week 3: Developing Flow
The third week is where many beginners experience their first “breakthrough” moments. Movements that required conscious thought begin to feel more natural.
Technical Development
During this phase, you’ll work on:
More complex punch combinations
Defensive counterattacking
Movement patterns around the ring/space
Introduction to partner drills with focus mitts
Physical Adaptation
Your body is now adapting to the demands of boxing training. You’ll likely notice:
Increased shoulder endurance
Improved core strength
Better overall coordination
Enhanced cardiovascular recovery
Week 4: Putting It All Together
By the fourth week, you’re no longer a complete novice. You have a basic understanding of boxing fundamentals and have begun developing your own style.
Technical Integration
This week focuses on:
Fluid combinations of 4-5 punches
Defensive skills under light pressure
Controlled partner drills
Introduction to heavy bag work techniques
Measurable Progress
We’ll assess your progress from week one, often recording noticeable improvements in:
Technical execution of basic punches
Number of consecutive minutes you can maintain activity
Overall coordination and balance
Confidence in executing combinations
Common Questions From Beginners
Will I get hurt?
Contrary to what many believe, beginner boxing classes involve no sparring or contact with other students. You’ll work on technique, conditioning, and partner drills where your partner holds pads—there’s no risk of taking punches.
Do I need to be in shape first?
Absolutely not. Our program meets you at your current fitness level. Many members join specifically to get in shape, not because they’re already fit.
What if I have no coordination?
Boxing actually helps develop coordination through progressive training. Many of our most coordinated members started with two left feet!
Will I be the only beginner?
We always have newcomers joining our classes. You’ll be among others who are also learning the basics.
The Path Forward
After your first month, you’ll have several options to continue your boxing journey:
Remain in fundamentals classes to reinforce your foundation
Move to intermediate classes for more challenging workouts
Add private sessions for accelerated improvement
Explore our specialty classes like boxing for conditioning
Whatever path you choose, that first month lays the groundwork for all future progress. At Cubanoboxing, we take particular pride in our beginner program because we know that a positive introduction to boxing creates lifelong enthusiasm for the sport.
Ready to begin your boxing journey? [Schedule your first class today!]