When I came back to training with Bruce after so many years away, I wasn’t chasing competition or big goals, I just wanted to get fit again. Life had gotten busy, and I’d lost touch with that part of myself that thrived on movement and discipline. Walking back into the dojo felt both familiar and completely new.
At first, it was just about shaking off the rust, finding my rhythm and remembering how to breathe through the burn. But little by little, the spark came back. Boxing reminded me how good it feels to push past what you think you can do, to leave every session a little stronger than when you started.
Gradually my mindset shifted from a pure fitness focus into trying to become a better boxer, it became apparent to me that the best way to test my limits was to step into the ring. Daunting as it seemed I was guided and challenged not only by Sensei Bruce, but all the boxers in the dojo who had my best interest at heart, pushing me week by week until I was ready.
Having stepped into the competitive space I can confidently say it’s the most rewarding thing you can do as a boxer, and I look forward to fighting again.
Gabe Poulton
