This is EXCELLENT advice and insight. To the TS -- one thing I didn't take into consideration: did you just start training or have you been training and boxing for a bit and just cant get past this block? I just assumed it was the latter. If you are just starting out, just keep with it man and don't get discouraged. The more and longer you train the more you learn, better you get, and become WAY more aware of things -- both big and small and consciously to the point it becomes subconscious and reflexive. Regardless, no matter what, dont get discouraged and keep at it even when you don't feel like it, actually at most when you dont feel like it. Go into it with confidence(dig deep and thoroughly and find it wherever it is in your head) and a positive attitude and dont ever get discouraged by whatever happens, take any negative outlook and view it as a learning experience and adjust, adapt, and overcome.
100% this, anything other and what's the point? And if you're sparring guys who compete open class in the amateurs or even other novices who have been competing novice class for a while and are on the verge of jumping up to open class, dont do it and the gym/trainers there should never even allow that. ONLY spar with others with relatively the same amount of experience as you have otherwise dont spar or make it a light spar and if a trainer doessnt enforce that then get the **** out of that gym -- ts a joke of a gym and shouldnt be allowed to train anyone if thats how it is there.
There are people who just cant harm others. I know it because I'm one of those. If you cannot harm others.... not too good if you want to do something meaningfull in boxing. If you want just to box for fun, no problem. But to become a pro.... People who get into the ring thinking "well, I want to win, but not to harm him" dont have a long way in this sport. Believe me.
That was the part I wanted to clarify — is the TS reluctant to get hit while he's throwing punches, or does he feel uncomfortable punching his opponent?
This was my first thought, I spar 3-4 times a week going anything from 6 to 10 rounds depending on the session. Having long gaps between sparring sessions will only dampen your sharpness and in your case increase your anxiety and over thinking
Put your weight on your front foot, and keep sparring.You're probably too defensive and afraid of getting tagged. Stay off the forums and put the time in the ring and the roadwork. It will all click.
To overcome this, dont worry about getting hurt or beaten. stay calm and relax, focusing on throwing your punches with good technique, speed, power etc. maybe you need more movement drills because your footwork may not be working with your punches
Alot of unkind advice ignore it. Sparring is a mutual agreement to box but not fight I feel as though you going gun shy is a matter of inexperience not knowing how hard to hit don't throw wilder behind the ear windmill punches but don't throw paddy cake slaps like you are trying to massage their face, find a pace you and your partner are comfortable with try body shot exclusive sessions and find what works unless you are simply cowardly and don't want to be hit that would be unfortunate.