How Boxing Helps Teens Stay Emotionally Balanced and Less Reactive: Our Experience at Geelong Boxing Club

At Geelong Boxing Club, we've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative effects of boxing on teenagers. Contrary to the common misconception that boxing promotes aggression, we've seen how this sport actually fosters emotional balance and reduces reactivity among our young people.

Stress Relief Through Physical Activity:
One of the most immediate benefits we observe is stress relief. We've seen teens come into the gym after a long, challenging day at school, and by the end of their session, they leave with a lighter spirit. The intense physical activity of boxing helps release endorphins, providing a natural and effective way to reduce stress. This physical exertion offers a productive outlet for any pent-up energy or frustration they might be carrying.

Building Focus and Discipline:
Boxing requires a high level of focus and discipline, and we've seen how this translates into other areas of our teens' lives. In the gym, they learn to concentrate on their techniques, pay attention to their movements, and develop strategic thinking. These skills not only improve their performance in the ring but also enhance their ability to focus on schoolwork and manage their daily responsibilities. This increased focus and discipline help them approach challenges calmly and thoughtfully, rather than reactively.

Boosting Self-Confidence:
We take great pride in watching our teens' self-confidence grow as they progress in their training. Mastering new skills and overcoming obstacles in the gym gives them a sense of accomplishment. This boost in self-esteem helps them handle difficult situations outside the gym with greater confidence and assertiveness, reducing the likelihood of reactive behaviour.

Emotional Regulation and Healthy Expression:
In our structured training environment, teens learn to regulate their emotions effectively. They understand the importance of channeling their feelings into their training sessions, which teaches them better control over their emotional responses. This skill is crucial for maintaining emotional balance and reducing impulsive reactions. We've also seen how boxing encourages healthy expression of emotions. Instead of bottling up their feelings or acting out aggressively, our teens use their training to process and express their emotions constructively.

Strong Sense of Community and Support:
At Geelong Boxing Club, we emphasise the importance of community and support. Our teens build strong connections with their peers and coaches, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the gym. These relationships provide emotional support and guidance, helping our young athletes navigate their emotions and feel less isolated. The camaraderie and mutual encouragement we witness among our teens foster a positive and nurturing environment.

Clear Expectations In and Out of the Gym
We are clear about the expectations we have for our teens, both in and out of the gym. We emphasise respect, discipline, and responsibility, and we hold them accountable to these standards. By setting high expectations and providing a structured environment, we help our teens develop the skills and mindset necessary to succeed in all areas of their lives. We believe that the lessons learned in the gym—such as resilience, perseverance, and emotional regulation—are invaluable and have a lasting impact on their overall well-being.

Additionally, our co-owner and director, Lena Moxon, has returned to university to complete her Graduate Certificate in Child and Adolescent Mental Health. Lena is a strong advocate for the creation and facilitation of boxing programs that support emotional regulation and resilience-building skills for young people in the Geelong region. Her dedication and expertise are instrumental in shaping programs that truly benefit our young people.

We're committed to supporting our teens in their personal growth and ensuring they carry these life affirming traits with them beyond the gym.