Reflect

Benefits of Boxing

• What do you believe are the benefits of boxing? 
• Are there any additional benefits that were not described in the videos you watched?

Benefits of Boxing Versus Injury Risks

There are many benefits of boxing described by coaches, athletes, and parents. The World Medical Association, however, has recommended banning boxing because of the injuries it causes. Polarities are interdependent opposites which function best when both are present to balance each other from extremes. The “medical perspective” and the “boxing perspective” appear to be polar opposites and in conflict with one-another. However, we want to encourage you to consider moving away from either/or thinking (i.e., EITHER the medical perspective is right OR the boxing perspective is right) to both/and thinking (i.e., BOTH the medical perspective AND boxing perspective are right in different ways) for this reflection task.

• What are the pros and cons of strictly following the medical perspective (as presented in the World Medical Association reading)?
• What are the pros and cons of strictly following boxing perspectives (as presented in the videos)? 
• Is there a way to get the pros of each perspective while avoiding the cons of each perspective? Stated differently, do you believe there is a way for athletes to receive the many benefits of boxing AND minimize short- and long-term health risks?
• Boxing is a contact sport. Do you think there are ways to reduce the number of injuries in the sport?

Note: Reflect on these positions on your own right now. In Session 3, you will be asked to discuss these questions with other coaches.