Day 3 of 100 Days of Boxing:

November 17th, 2023

9:14 am 59F

Rounds: 9?

Location: Garage

Audio: The Howard Stern Show (Sirius XM)

The combination of self-reflection, dedication to training, and the acknowledgment of vulnerability is a powerful mindset in any competitive sport. I am extremely competitive. I learn more about my inner competition every day. The faces of competitive sportsmanship can be ugly but in my opinion they can make the game better.

Started the session by working on shuffles in addition to pivots. Both exercises create muscle memory and the ability to create angles from different positions.

I had a difficult time quieting my mind to the fact that I may not be the best boxer. I feel the added pressure from my imagined "expert" shadow boxing opponent more than usual this morning.

I realize this vulnerability is a huge part of the sport of boxing. Being comfortable with vulnerability is hidden to most who try to identify it. Accepting that you may not always be the best is a humbling realization that opens the door for continuous improvement.

Like crossing the Rubicon, once a punch is initiated, plans are off, and split-second decisions become crucial- the venture has been launched. The punch is now on trajectory and all previous training is tested, will my punch land and what obstacle lies beyond on the journey to crushing this opponent. Do I continue to press forward or bounce out of the pocket to establish range and new angles? Mental agility, combined with the physical execution of techniques, separates great boxers from good ones.

Ending my session with a focus on finishing punches with a sharp return to high guard. The objective was to reinforce discipline in technique and help prevent leaving yourself vulnerable after an attack. Staying loose yet sharp is a delicate balance. I can become rigid without the voice of fear, always be ready for what comes next.

Remember, the journey of a boxer is not just about winning or losing but about continuous growth, both as an athlete and as an individual.