Boxing is empowering. It builds the body and the mind. In addition to building physical strength and endurance it builds confidence and mental toughness. Women who box competitively impress with their skill and clearly show the sweet science is no longer expertly practiced only by men.
Women in boxing have come a long way. It is hard to believe now but there was a time when women’s boxing was banned in most parts of the world and women only stepped into the ring to display round cards in between rounds at men’s fights...
...or to participate in "Foxy Boxing" matches in bars...
Now women are welcomed at most boxing clubs, women’s amateur boxing is an established olympic sport and female professional boxers are gaining a large following and starting to headline some boxing events. Boxing has become just another sport women can freely participate in regardless of size.
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| Heavyweight Boxer Sonya Lamonakis |
All this works wonders in changing the view of women - both in sport and in society. No longer relegated to token visibility, women are now fighters who are skilled at the noble art of self defence. It is okay for women to have muscle, be strong and to be able to fight. This sends a message to other women and the next generation that women are able to fight for themselves and there is beauty in strength and toughness that goes beyond the cosmetic.
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| Amanda Serrano (left) |
Like boys, girls can be the victims of bullying.
There are many examples now of girls who have turned to the boxing gym. Sixteen year old High School student Annalicia Sustaita was overweight and had been bullied for years.
But she was determined not to let the bullies win. In her quest to increase her physical activity she discovered boxing. Now as the Welterweight National Boxing Champion, no one bullies her!
There are too many inspiring stores like this to list here. Without a doubt, boxing has changed the lives of many women for the better!
