Training is essential preparation for providing the strength and endurance needed for boxing. Success in competition is directly proportionate to the amount of effort that is put into training. Training should be conducted at a rapid pace to train the body, particularly the cardiovascular system, for quick, explosive action. Currently in amateur boxing, bouts are four rounds long which does not leave time for “feeling out” your opponent or pacing yourself. A boxer should train for the same duration in which he is going to compete. If you are a novice boxer [an athlete who has less than 10 bouts], you should be working on a two minute clock and working at 100% effort. Open boxers box three minutes. All too often a novice boxer working three minute rounds conditions his body to work at 80% of its physical potential. Unfortunately, when 100% is needed in competition, he is not prepared for it. The key is to train at the same duration as competition and at 100% intensity. Most gyms are open only three nights a week which is adequate and keeps the coach and boxers from getting burned out. To complement the gym work, an aspiring champion must workout two or three additional days of the week. Your better, more dedicated boxers should be shadowboxing, and running when they are not working in the gym.