Western Boxing and Health

Abstract

Western boxing is a world-renowned combative spectator sport. Despite its popularity, debates persist over its safety and ethics due to its aggressive nature. There are three streams of research related to boxing and health. The first stream focuses on the physiological profiles of boxers, and suggests that a boxer’s performance is associated with the interplay between aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Highly intensive and lengthy training intervals are recommended for boxers to meet the aerobic and anaerobic demands that arise during matches. The second stream of research investigates boxing-related injuries. The most common injuries are head, face and hand traumas. These injuries may have life-threatening or career-ending consequences for boxers. Therefore, ringside physicians are necessary and should pay considerable attention to potentially catastrophic emergencies during matches. The third stream of research suggests that boxing is both physically and psychologically beneficial to young people. However, no solid evidence has been reported to substantiate this proposition, and further research is required.