How do you make your new gear feel just right? What steps can you take to ensure it’s comfortable and ready for action? Breaking in a new pair of boxing gloves is essential for performance and comfort. Without proper preparation, stiff gloves can hinder your training and even cause discomfort or injury. Here’s a step-by-step guide to breaking them inefficiently.
Choosing the Right Gloves: Why It Matters
Before you break into your gear, choosing the right pair is crucial. When you buy boxing gloves, look for a pair that suits your needs, whether for sparring, bag work, or competition. High-quality gloves from trusted brands may cost more but often require less effort to break in.
Material plays a significant role in the process. Leather gloves are more durable and mouldable, while synthetic ones may feel stiffer initially. Investing in the right pair saves time and ensures your gear performs well in the long run.
Start with Light Workouts
The best way to break in your gloves is by easing into light training sessions. Begin with low-impact exercises like shadowboxing or light bag work. This helps soften the padding gradually without overloading the boxing mitts.
Avoid jumping straight into heavy sparring or intense bag work. Overworking stiff mitts can damage them or cause discomfort to your hands. Light workouts help the gloves mould naturally to your hand shape, enhancing comfort and flexibility over time.
Use Your Wraps Wisely
Hand wraps are an indispensable part of breaking in new boxing mitts, offering both protection and comfort. When wrapped correctly, they provide additional padding for your knuckles, minimising the impact on your hands during the early stages of use. They also create a supportive layer that helps the gloves mould to the shape of your hands more naturally over time.
It’s important to ensure your wraps are snug but not overly tight, as this could lead to discomfort or restricted circulation. Experimenting with different wrapping techniques can help you find the most comfortable fit. In the initial phase, hand wraps act as a buffer, softening stiffness and making the break-in process much smoother.
Condition the Material
Conditioning the material of your gloves can significantly enhance their flexibility and comfort, particularly if they are made of leather. Leather gloves often benefit from a specialised leather conditioner, which helps to soften the outer shell and make it more pliable.To condition your boxing mitts, apply a small amount of the product to the surface and gently rub it in using a soft cloth.
Allow the gloves to sit for a few hours before using them, giving the conditioner time to work its way into the material. This step is especially valuable in Australia’s dry climate, where leather can become stiff. Regular conditioning not only improves comfort but also extends the gloves’ durability.
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Moulding and Shaping Techniques
Sometimes, new gloves require additional techniques to mould perfectly to your hands. A simple yet effective method is to repeatedly open and close the gloves with your hands. This action gradually softens the padding, allowing the gloves to conform to your hand shape more naturally.
Another useful trick is to place a soft, round object, such as a rolled-up towel, inside the boxing mitts and leave them overnight. This helps stretch the gloves slightly, encouraging a more open position and reducing stiffness. When combined with consistent use during training, these techniques accelerate the break-in process. They ensure a comfortable fit, improving both performance and overall satisfaction with your gear.
When you buy boxing gloves, breaking them in properly is key to maximising their performance and comfort. Taking the time to do it right not only improves your training experience but also extends the lifespan of your gear. With a little care and patience, your new gloves will become an essential part of your fitness journey, ready to support you in every punch and strike.