How to Start Boxing as a Complete Beginner

The ultimate beginner’s guide to stepping into the ring with confidence

Boxing isn’t just for professionals or those chasing a championship belt—it’s one of the most effective ways to get fit, learn self-discipline, and boost your confidence. Whether you want to compete, get in the best shape of your life, or simply learn how to defend yourself, boxing is for everyone. But where do you begin?

This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from gear to mindset, drills to where to train—so you can start boxing the right way, even if you’ve never thrown a punch before.

🥋 Step 1: Gear Up – What You Need to Start Boxing

Before you ever hit a bag or step in a ring, you’ll need the right equipment. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Boxing gloves – Start with 14-16 oz training gloves for general use.
• Hand wraps – These protect your knuckles and wrists. Learn to wrap properly (or check out Jeff Mayweather’s video guide).
• Mouthguard – Essential for sparring and protection.
• Boxing shoes – Optional at first, but they help with agility and movement.
• Heavy bag & jump rope – Perfect for at-home training if you’re not at a gym yet.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t spend hundreds on gear right away. Start with the essentials, then upgrade as your skills improve.

🧠 Step 2: Build the Boxer’s Mindset

Boxing is as mental as it is physical. Stepping into this sport requires:

• Discipline – You won’t improve overnight. Stick to the basics and stay consistent.
• Patience – Your jab won’t be perfect on Day 1. That’s normal.
• Confidence – Everyone starts somewhere. The fact that you’re even reading this is a win.

Jeff Mayweather, a legendary trainer and member of the iconic Mayweather boxing family, always says: “The toughest part is showing up. The rest is just repetition.”

Step 3: First Boxing Drills for Absolute Beginners

You don’t need a ring or partner to get started. Focus on these solo drills first:

1. Shadowboxing

• Practice basic punches (jab, cross, hook).
• Move around as if you’re in a real match—footwork matters.

2. Jump Rope

• Builds foot speed and endurance.
• Start with 1-minute rounds, work up to 3.

3. Heavy Bag

• Work combinations like jab-cross, jab-cross-hook.
• Focus on form, not power.

4. Basic Footwork Drills

• Forward, backward, side-to-side shuffles.
• Always keep your stance balanced and guard up.

📍 Step 4: Where to Train – In Person or Online?

Here’s the truth: You don’t have to join a gym on Day 1. But eventually, coaching will take your skills to the next level.

✔️ In-Person Training

If you’re in Las Vegas, Jeff Mayweather is currently accepting new students at the Mayweather Boxing Club, one of the most respected gyms in the world.
👉 Schedule an in-person session with Jeff here

💻 Train from Anywhere

Not in Vegas? Jeff now offers an online boxing course that teaches you fundamentals, drills, and techniques used by pros—all from the comfort of your home.
👉 Join the waitlist for Jeff’s online boxing course

🧠 Final Thoughts: Everyone Starts Somewhere

Starting boxing as a beginner doesn’t mean you need to be in peak shape or have any prior experience. What matters is that you commit, stay consistent, and find the right guidance.

Whether you’re throwing your first jab or stepping into the ring for the first time, you deserve elite coaching—and there’s no better place to get that than with Jeff Mayweather.

💬 Ready to Take the First Step?

🏆 Train with one of the most respected names in boxing.
📲 Visit JeffMayweather.vegas to start your boxing journey today.