Do you think certain boxing gyms can stop your progress skill wise, or is it all about the person? I need a new gym so just wondering since there all average around my area but theres some top clubs if a travel further. Bit of a odd question just wanted your opinions..
I think that if a coach's knowledge is limited then there is a possibility of stopping improvement. That is why as a coach, they need to study different aspects of the game. At my gym, I am very lucky to have 4 coaches with tons of experience. One is only 30, but he was once ranked in the top 5 as a Super heavyweight amateur in the United States, and he focuses on a combination of power, and speed. Then we have another coach, named Butch he is around 70 years old, and he teaches to come forward, and old school defense. Then we have another coach who has trained many amateur champions who focuses on elusiveness, finally the owner of the gym and head coach also focuses on speed and elusiveness, however he likes to get in the nitty gritty too, and he can rile me up just enough when i look like I am losing interest or that I am nervous.
There's different ways that gyms are run. Some are just rented spaces, available 2-5 times a week for class, others are dedicated facilities that have stand-alone equipment for you to practice ANYTIME like heavybags, a ring, pads, etc. I got good fitness with public classes, but only dedicated time to 1-2 small aspects of training helped me improve. I worked forever on bringing back my straight punches on the same line I threw them on. Being at a track or doing sprints/roadwork on separate times/days is also a huge help. Technique is good when you're not tired. The biggest thing besides your coach is good sparring. How many quality guys within 15-20 lbs of your size are there? How dedicated are they to training? There's a great thread here abotu your worst experiences sparring. But I can tell you a lot of good stories about working with good people who did NOT beat me down just because they could, who were wearing 16 oz gloves and shin guards, and who had a good attitude AFTER sparring to help me improve. Be smart, know what you're paying for, and if you put the time in, you'll get a lot back.
Bottom line: You can become a great fighter even if you come from a mediocre gym. Manny Pacquiao didn't start at Wild Card, he ended up there after years of doing well with whatever he had to work with at the time.
