Today, there’s a common misconception about what age is too late to start boxing. As you have likely guessed, I’m about to write that it has no age limit. Frankly, you’re not wrong. And still, it’s vital we discuss the details and understand why everyone can start their fighting journey today.
There’s no age that’s too old to start boxing. Whether you’re in your 50s, 60s, 70s, or even 80s, you can start to train, at your own pace, and work your way up the skill ladder. The oldest boxer to ever turn pro—is actually 54 years old. If he managed to do it, you can too, regardless of your age.
You don’t need to be in your prime to work on yourself. Boxing isn’t only a way of fighting, it’s also a lifestyle. You’ll drastically improve many aspects in your life, such as your confidence, self-esteem, and stress-management. In contrary, you’ll be reducing negative symptoms simultaneously.
For that reason, people who understand that are capable of starting their journey as late as in their 70s. When I had my first Muay-Thai class, I was the youngest student there. Eventually, all the other trainees were able to beat me, even a guy in his mid 60s.
This article isn’t supposed to motivate you. However, if it does so, I encourage you to grasp it and savor it in yourself. When you’ll need it most, you’ll be capable of starting your journey with all your spare motivation.
Let’s discuss why you can start boxing at any age, even in your 80s. Before we do that, I encourage you to follow the link if you want to learn more about perfecting your punching technique. Doing so—is tough, but will be highly rewarding; so, do give it a read.
What is a late age to start boxing?
If you currently want to start your boxing journey but think you’re too old, let me explain why you’re not. First, let’s understand why you don’t have to go all-in in your first session. Until you feel comfortable, you won’t spar with anyone, which is what most people are afraid of in the beginning.
There’s no late age to start boxing at because you can always improve yourself through this sport. Your coach or instructor won’t go all-out to ensure you’ll never want to come back again. Rather, you’d first do all the exercises that’ll feel comfortable to you. Hence, you won’t spar if you’re not ready to do so.
The primary concept is that you can first start with what’s comfortable. Thus, you’re not even required to hit the punching bag, if you don’t want to. As a result, you’ll be improving yourself, slightly, every single day.
That is what boxing is all about, improving yourself. Of course, you’ll be pushing your physical and mental limits all the time. Waking up sore—after a tiresome session—will feel natural. Likewise, your mental shape will also improve with time, such as your confidence, self-esteem, and ability to manage stress.
If you’re in your 50s, 60s, 70s, or even 80s, you can show up to training. At first, start with what you’re familiar with. Then, continue lifting the pace a bit. Repeat that process and you’ll see major improvement.
Does boxing have an age limit?
If you want to start boxing, or any martial art for that matter, begin now. Don’t hesitate because you think there’s an age limit. If you stop yourself from improving yourself by indulging in such training, you’d be missing out on some crucial benefits.
Boxing doesn’t have an age limit, although most people think it does. You can start with the exercises that you can perform. Then, slowly push your comfort zone to ensure you do progress, even if it’s slight improvements. Regardless of your age, you’ll highly benefit from rigorous boxing training.
Another solid improvement you’ll gain from boxing, and martial arts in general, is social connections. You’ll be meeting like-minded people who you can create deep bonds with. In the later ages of life, this can be crucial for keeping one’s mental health and well-being in touch.
I’ve witnessed numerous elders lose many of their cognitive abilities they used to do before—by not trying to move. By not pushing your physical limits, your ability to function will slowly decline.
Eventually, you don’t have to become a top boxer if you box. Simply, you can adopt what you can and like to do in training, so you’ll constantly be pushing yourself. Finally, there’s no reason that it won’t help in your journey, even if you currently are afraid to walk out of your comfort zone.
Is boxing good for people over 50?
I’ll be mentioning this story more throughout this article. Let’s discuss the oldest boxer to ever turn professional. That’ll hopefully help you understand that you can do anything that you desire to achieve, regardless of your age.
Boxing is beneficial for people over 50s because it’ll help them improve both their mental and physical shape. While some may think that it’s impossible to box at such ages, since you can fight other people in that age. Nonetheless, you don’t have to compete or spar, if you think that’s too much for you.
Instead, you can utilize all the physical attributes in training and adopt them. In that case, you’ll be doing pad work, punching bag drills, and other aerobic and anaerobic exercises, such as sprinting or long-running. All these will help you learn how to box while improving your physical shape.
Back to the story, Steve Ward is the oldest boxer to turn pro, doing so at the age of 54. Although he has been boxing for more than 10 years, you can still understand that it’s possible in these ages. Take what you’d like from this story; I personally take the possibility you still have when you’re in your 50s or 60s.
The correlation between your mental and physical health—have long been proven by numerous medical publications. If you can improve one of them, which you’ll do in training, you’ll also be improving the other. It’s, indeed, a cycle of well-being!
Professional boxers who started late
When discussing boxers who started late, we usually talk about pros who began training in their 20s. The popular opinion is that you must start boxing at the age of 6, if you want to have the slightest chance of turning pro. However, that’s simply untrue.
- Dwight Muhammad Qawi (25)
- Ken Norton (24)
- Rocky Marciano (23)
- Sonny Liston (17)
- Jess Willard (27)
- Luis Angel Firpo (23)
- Deontay Wilder (20)
- Antonio Tarver (28)
- Ron Lyle (23)
We’re talking about some of the best boxers out there. If you truly understand the meaning of this list, it is that you can start boxing whenever you want. You might feel that it’s too late to start your boxing journey, but here you have individuals who managed to reach prime performances when they started training at age 28.
That should be extremely motivating for some of you. When I heard of these ages, I was shocked. How can someone start training at age 25 and become world champion at something? But, now you may understand that it’s not too late to start your boxing career, even if you don’t want to work as hard.
You can, indeed, become a world champion a few years from now, if you really want to!
If you want to know which boxers are best in the history of boxing, do follow the link to see the complete list!
Boxer turning pro at age 54
As I previously mentioned, the oldest boxer to turn pro was 54 years old at that time. I hope you understand how astounding such a feat is. Steve Ward was able to cross all that’s possible, and attain a superb accomplishment.
I hope it can motivate you to do better, each and each day. Start small and work your way up by pushing your physical limits in every single workout. If Ward was able to do it, you can start boxing at any age, period.
Can 12-year-olds do boxing?
Boxing is for all ages. While there’s no age limit, there’s also no age-restriction. So, even young trainees can start their journey and enjoy all the physical and mental benefits. If you want to know what the mental benefits of boxing are, follow the link to an article of mine on the topic.
12-year-olds can do boxing under a qualified and skillful coach. The coach’s part is to ensure that all the trainees wear headgear when sparring or have any potential hazards to their head. 12-year-olds can enjoy the mental and physical benefits as much as trainees at all ages can.
Final words
To end this article, I want to emphasize my appreciation for all the people doing boxing. Whether you’re 15 or 82 years of age, you should appreciate yourself for all the hard efforts you’re putting into this wonderful art.
Even if you’re not competing or sparring, you’re learning the art. But, most importantly, you’re pushing your physical and mental boundaries. That’ll inevitably cause an improvement in various areas in your life.
If you want to read the complete list of the benefits you’ll experience from martial arts, follow the link to read it.
I highly recommend starting to box as soon as you can. The most difficult part is to begin. So, if you can minimize the learning period, where you’ll need to put most the effort, you’ll stay consistent and more dedicated in your training in the long-term.
FAQs
Boxing – What Age Is Too Old to Start? And Why | Blinklift? ›
The short answer is that it's never too late to start boxing. Some will argue that starting at a younger age will give you an advantage in competitions, although boxing tournaments offer brackets for boxers of all ages, so there is nothing to worry about.
How late is too late to start boxing? ›The short answer is that it's never too late to start boxing. Some will argue that starting at a younger age will give you an advantage in competitions, although boxing tournaments offer brackets for boxers of all ages, so there is nothing to worry about.
Can you be too old to start boxing? ›You can never be too old to start a boxing workout regimen. It doesn't matter if you are in your 40s, 50s, 60s, etc. Boxing is a great way to get into and keep in good shape, and it's a workout that's never going to be boring.
Is 30 too old to start boxing professionally? ›1) It's Never Too Late To Take Control Of Your Fitness
Specifically for people in their 30's, boxing training is an important ingredient to health and wellness. It will make you feel years younger and bring back that youthful exuberance you once had in your 20's.
You're never too old to give the sweet science a try. Sure, 40 might be too old to start a career as a professional boxer, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the many benefits of learning how to box, like knowing how to defend yourself, improved physical health, and lower stress levels.
Is 27 too late to start a boxing career? ›There is no right time to start boxing and you are never too old. Though you may be past your years of becoming a professional athlete, there is no reason why you can't, or shouldn't, start boxing if it is something you are interested in.
Can I become a boxer at 25? ›But contrary to popular belief, boxing isn't just a young man's game. Anyone of any age or gender can start to learn how to box. All you need is an understanding that boxing will be the most physical workout you've ever experienced in your life, and an open willingness to learn every little detail.
How many years does it take to become a professional boxer? ›It takes about four years to become a professional boxer.
On average, an amateur boxer will compete in 118 fights before debuting as a professional boxer. That is generally 118 fights in four years, assuming the boxer began fighting at age sixteen.
One of the best things about boxing, or fitness in general, is that you are never too old to start. Some people go their entire adult lives before picking it up, but the benefits of exercise cannot be ignored. It's never a bad time to start boxing to help you get fighting fit for the rest of your life.
Does it hurt to box? ›It's no secret that boxing is a highly physical, high-impact sport. While it provides endless health and fitness benefits, common injuries include knuckle and wrist pain. Professional boxers will inevitably have to deal with injuries, but fitness boxers should be able to stay safe and feeling good.
When can you call yourself a boxer? ›
If you spend time training at a boxing gym, sparring in the ring with partners who dance around throwing jabs in your direction, you can call yourself a boxer. If your job involves putting things into cardboard boxes, you're another kind of boxer.
Is boxing good for older adults? ›Not only is boxing a phenomenal form of cardiovascular exercise to increase longevity and overall heart health, but it also improves posture, and functional and core strength, which can all be issues for individuals over the age of 60.
Can you become a pro fighter at 30? ›The State Athletic Commission states that the minimum age to fight in the UFC is 18 years old, with no upper age limit. MMA Fighters must be between the ages of 21 and 34 and be allowed to legally live and work in the United States to compete in The Ultimate Fighter Championship.
How much can boxers make? ›As of May 26, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Professional Boxer in the United States is $32.71 an hour.
How do I start a boxing career? ›- Find the right gym. All boxing careers begin in a boxing gym. ...
- Find a good coach. Once you start attending a good boxing gym with ample talented boxers for sparring, you're ready to find a coach. ...
- Train. ...
- Obtain a license. ...
- Participate in your first fight.
Tyson made his professional debut as an 18-year-old on March 6, 1985, in Albany, New York. He defeated Hector Mercedes via first-round TKO. He had 15 bouts in his first year as a professional. Fighting frequently, Tyson won 26 of his first 28 fights by KO or TKO; 16 of those came in the first round.
Is it hard to become a professional boxer? ›The path to becoming a pro boxer is very difficult. You'll need to train hard to develop your strength, repeatedly win at the amateur level and keep your body in excellent physical condition. The majority of your professional life will be spent in the boxing gym.
Is 28 too late to be a pro boxer? ›It's never too late to start boxing, but there are some reasons why it might be a good idea to wait until your child is older. For example, they may be more physically capable of doing it safely and effectively. Also, their motor skills will have improved enough that they won't take as long to learn the basics.
Is 26 too old to start a boxing career? ›You are never too old to start boxing. There are plenty of reasons why you should start with boxing regardless of your age. If you start boxing at an older age, you will get in better shape, be healthier, socialize more, feel younger, and have better mental health.
What is the oldest age for a boxer? ›The oldest boxer ever was a male named Maccabee, who lived to be 16 years and nine months old.
How much money do boxers make per fight? ›
On average, boxers early in their careers can expect to make about $1,000 to $4,000 per fight, or from $5,000 to $10,000 per fight in the midrange.
Is 23 too old to start a boxing career? ›It's never too late to start boxing – even if you're older than usual. Boxing is a very physically demanding sport, but that doesn't mean it isn't for everyone. There's no age limit on when you can join an amateur boxing club or get involved in other activities related to the sport.
Do you need a degree to be a boxer? ›Usually, boxers don't need a college education. The most common degree for boxers is high school diploma with 53% graduates, with only 15% boxer graduates earning associate degree.
How many fights can a professional boxer have in a year? ›Quick answer: Professional boxers who have built a name for themselves tend to limit their fights 1 to 3 times every 12 months. They already have a huge fan base and can make more money that they need. New boxers, on the other hand, can box up to 12 to 27 times a year to build their name and gain recognition.
Can you go pro in boxing in 2 years? ›Boxers are always in peak physical condition, so it only takes about 1–3 years to become one if you're reasonably athletic and coordinated. You'll need a good trainer who knows how to fight professionally and can train with them for four days straight before you become a professional boxer.
Is there an age limit to professional boxing? ›Boxers must be at least eighteen (18) years of age and possess a current Federal ID Card in order to compete in a professional boxing match.
Can you learn to box with Fight Camp? ›Yes, Fight Camp teaches you to box. While not just for beginners, Fight Camp's tutorials and workouts led by professional fighters help the user learn and master the fundamentals and then progressively build on those newly learned movements.
What are the risks of boxing? ›Body Damage
Other injuries to the body from boxing include cuts, bruises, broken teeth, dental problems,4 broken ribs, internal bleeding, and damage to internal organs.
The most common acute injuries among boxers are concussions, cuts and blows to the face, and injuries to the hands, fingers and wrists. There can also be muscular injuries from direct blows or from pulling muscles. Ankle sprains and dislocated shoulders are not uncommon.
What are the side effects of boxing? ›Some boxers experience persistent residual cognitive and physical symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, balance difficulty, and memory problems for many days or weeks after a fight. This is often referred to as a “groggy state,” or more commonly the post-concussion syndrome.
How do I know if I'm a fighter? ›
- I show up. ...
- I make weight. ...
- I conduct myself like a professional... in and out of the ring. ...
- I honor the gym and the people in it. ...
- I keep my word. ...
- I have heart. ...
- I have a vision for my career.
A boxer is a champion snuggler. In fact, many owners report that their boxer loves to be held like a baby.
How do I know if I'll be a good boxer? ›- Speed. The art of boxing is to hit and not be hit! ...
- Accuracy. Landing punches on a moving target is no easy feat; boxers have to size opponents up and predict their movements before judging where and how fast to hit to make it effective. ...
- Power. ...
- Defence skills. ...
- Endurance. ...
- Discipline. ...
- Intelligence.
No Age limit for training.
What is Parkinson's boxing? ›What is boxing for Parkinson's? Parkinson's boxing classes are non-combat workouts, meaning you won't be fighting another person. Classes typically include exercises that help you improve hand-eye coordination, agility, speed, endurance, and strength. Parkinson's boxing classes typically range from 30 to 90 minutes.
Is Shadow Boxing good for seniors? ›Low Impact for Joint and Bone Issues: Shadow boxing is a great way to box for both cardiovascular and strength endurance… That means just punching through the air. No impact on a bag, on mits, or a person! This is perfect for those with osteoporosis or osteoarthritis.
Can I start fighting at 35? ›If you're in your 30s and think it's too late to start training in martial arts, you could be mistaken. Just because you didn't reap the benefits of joining a gym at a young age, doesn't mean you can't take advantage of learning a martial art now.
How do I start fighting professionally? ›You need to try and get in as many amateur fights as you can. In amateur boxing and kickboxing, fighters rake up numerous fights to gain experience. For amateur MMA you must do the same thing and compete in many fights. Look to compete in over 10 amateur matches and win a few belts before going to the pro level.
Is 21 too old to start boxing? ›You are never too old to start boxing. There are plenty of reasons why you should start with boxing regardless of your age. If you start boxing at an older age, you will get in better shape, be healthier, socialize more, feel younger, and have better mental health.
Is 20 too late to start boxing? ›There have been boxers who started boxing as early as eight years old; some who began their careers in their late 20s; and even some who didn't put on their first boxing glove until they were 40 or above. This is why, generally speaking, there is no age too old to start boxing.
Is starting boxing at 22 too late? ›
It's never too late to start boxing – even if you're older than usual. Boxing is a very physically demanding sport, but that doesn't mean it isn't for everyone. There's no age limit on when you can join an amateur boxing club or get involved in other activities related to the sport.
Is 19 too old to start boxing? ›Boxing can be a great way to stay active and strengthen your muscles, even if you are young. There is no age limit for starting boxing, so feel free to give it a try at any time. You don't need any previous experience or skills in order to start boxing – just an interest in the sport.
How much money can a boxer make? ›$36,000 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $110,000 is the 75th percentile.
Is 25 too old to start boxing professionally? ›It's never too late to start boxing. Boxing is a great way to add some muscle, strength and cardio training into your routine. You don't need any experience or special equipment – just a place to box and some motivation.
Can I be a pro boxer if I start at 20? ›There no max age to become a good pro-boxer. All you need is hard work and dedication. There are many examples where people have done that: One example is Bernard Hopkins.
Can I become a boxer at 23? ›Ultimately, it's up to you as a young adult but NEVER EVER let anyone tell you that you can't do something! All the best man. Ray Mercer started boxing at the age of 23 while serving in the U.S. Army and compiled an amateur record of 64-6. He won Gold in the 1988 Olympics in Seoul as a heavyweight.
Can I start kick boxing at 23? ›If you want to learn kickboxing, learn kickboxing. You're never too old. If you want to compete at any serious level you're way too late. There are exceptional athletes who just “pick up” new sports but most of us do it the hard way, with years of hard slog, and the younger you start, the better.
Why is boxing good for you? ›Boxing is a high-intensity workout that builds fitness, strength, and coordination. It's also a great calorie-burner — approximately 324 in 30 minutes. What type of exercise is boxing? Boxing is primarily a cardio exercise, but it also strengthens the muscles in the core and lower body.
How much can a boxer make per fight? ›On average, boxers early in their careers can expect to make about $1,000 to $4,000 per fight, or from $5,000 to $10,000 per fight in the midrange.