To let 15 year do Boxing

[JellyMouse]

AIBU to let 15 year join a boxing club. I’ve said no as it just seems like a stupid thing to want to do voluntarily (get punched) but my DC has been nagging for months. Anyone’s child do this? I’m I being unfair?

My 9 year old has attended a martial arts club since the age of 2! He started sparring last September, I don't watch as I'm a wimp, but he loves it!

I do kick boxing with all 3 of my kids aged 7, 7 and 12.

Boxing is a brilliant sport, really good for fitness, and will teach him discipline and control. Why wouldn't you let him??

Under 18s will wear full protective gear.

Boxing and martial arts are very different.

I think its fine. Our kickboxing club doesn't let kids do the separate boxing classes as you need a particular licence apparently but the fitness levels of those who box is high, it's not all just being pinched in the face!

what is wrong with any of the other available martial arts?

Mine does kickboxing and it doesn't involve them punching each other in the face. They pair up and one holds pads for the other one to punch: it's about learning technique rather than hurting each other. Go for it!

I personally wouldn’t - dementia issues due to blows to the head are only becoming apparent in sport. I don’t care if they wear guards. It’d be a hard no on rugby either - unless it was touch rugby. There are plenty of other sports to chose from.

I'd try to steer him towards a martial art

Definitely allow him!

A lot of boxing is in the training and not actual fighting. It's amazing for their fitness and discipline.

If it's a good club Any actual fighting will be done under supervision and with head gear and only once they have passes a medical.

I would go with him and meet the coaches and discuss your concerns

I wouldn't say your being unreasonable......your just a caring mum who's worried about the possibilities of your child getting injured and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that!

My daughter started over a month ago. She attends 3 nights each week and enjoyed it but last week she complained of getting punched in the tummy.......and boy did I want to explode! However, I asked her if she wanted to quit and she said no so I held in my rage, encouraged her and pretended as all was okay. Last night I collected her from class, only to be told they were doing sparing and she was punched in the face by a much taller boy. For a moment I paused but held my composure. Again, I asked her if she wanted to quit and she said no, so I encouraged her and told her if she doesn't want to continue, she doesnt have too.

At the end of the day, kickboxing is an agressive sport. They will get injured but the more they practice, the more they will learn different techniques and become overcomers. Why not attend a trial session and see if it is something you would want for your child? In every sport, there are dangers and pitfalls but it has benefits in the long run.

Have a think. . .all the best x

You just have to Google Anthony Joshua and see the good that boxing can do. He would have ended up in prison or dead without the discipline and structure boxing gives.
For those who suggest other martial arts I would agree that they are good for kids but boxing concentrates a lot on overall fitness not just the combat element.
Your son will gain confidence and the ability to walk away from trouble because a) he will have nothing to prove and b). He will know the damage he could cause to another person.
The gym will be very safety conscious and if he does get into the ring the ABA are very strict about safety. I've watched a lot of ABA boxing especially school boy and the bouts are stopped well before any potential serious injury or even if it is clear one boxer is much better than the other