For many amateur athletes and exercisers, the sport has been recognised as a great way to lose weight, improve cardiovascular health and agility, and perhaps most importantly, get a more defined body. To that end, most gyms in Los Angeles, such as Bodies in Motion (www.bodiesinmotion.com) and Crunch, now offer some derivation of a group boxing class. These classes usually involve running and punching a heavy bag while an instructor shouts over upbeat hip-hop songs. The emphasis in these group classes is often on fitness, as opposed to boxing technique, making them good for anyone who wants to break a sweat.

For those interested in learning more advanced boxing technique, it might be a good idea to take a private one-on-one class at your gym or at a gym specifically dedicated to boxing. These boxing gyms, such as Wild Card Boxing Club (www.wildcardbc.com), Boxing on the Boulevard (www.boxingontheboulevard.com), and Boxing Academy Los Angeles (www.boxingacademyla.com), often have aspiring professionals working out and offer one-on-one classes taught by former professional or up-and-coming boxers. These private sessions are a great way to learn about boxing strategy, to perfect your jabs and upper cuts, and to get in shape – all at the same time. Watch out Rocky…