In a boxing match it is usually the little things that bring one man out on top. The little habits that were adhered to faithfully throughout the training process now coming to mean everything. When a man is brought to the edge, as athletes are every time they box, every inch counts.

How do you think Holyfield beat Tyson?

Training. That is what it always comes down to. If two fighters are even comparable in ability it will come down to whoever put the most work in, not in the glory-filled ring, but in the silent damp buildings where the only sound is their own grunting. This is where champions are made.

There are many different styles as far as how much emphasis is placed on each part of the training, but the fundamental components for a good boxing program are always the same. I am not going to state the obvious and say that you need to get an actual trainer to learn the techniques of striking and evasion. That should be obvious. I'll focus instead on the exercise routine that you will need to supplement such a program.

First, you need to build endurance. This is exactly how Holyfield got Tyson. The rounds wore on and Tyson lost that half step, that being the difference in the end. Run. Run every day. Start with around twenty minutes, or as much as you can, and then build up from there.

Second, build muscle. Weight training is vital to any boxer's regimen. Try lifting around sixty pounds for seven minutes. You can vary this as you need to for maximum effect. Make sure you train with a partner who can spot for you.

Third, make sure to eat healthy. This is an often overlooked part of regimen, but is actually just as important as the first two! You are what you eat, and you need health. Cut all the junk food and anything unhealthy out of your diet. Consume a lot of raw foods and vegetables. Juice. Make sure to get a lot of proteins as well, and your diet will be ideal.

Drink water all the time. Have you ever noticed how when you are really exhausted, genuinely spent, that it is water you crave most of all? How would a soda sound at this point? Like poison. We are satisfied by a beverage in direct accordance to how much water is in the drink, and you cannot afford to use anything less than the best for your training.

With these additions to your regular training regimen you will become a true beast. Remember when things get hard that this is the real contest, the real test. If you can push yourself alone you can surely do it in front of a crowd. Always remember that no matter how boring it gets, training is everything.

Learn more about this author, Royce Radcliffe.
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