Boxing for Fitness

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katherine Holt
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Merriam-Webster defines boxing as the art of attack and defense with the fists practiced as a sport. For Army Sgts 1st Class William McLilly and Brian Sanders it means so much more.

"Relieving stress is one of the many things that boxing does for me," said Sergeant Sanders, Special Operations Command. "It's also a great way to build camaraderie and one of the best ways to stay fit."

Sergeants Sanders and McLilly, along with a handful of their co-workers and friends, work out at Tampa Fight Factory on North Dale Mabry.

"Tampa Fight Factory has everything that we need to get in shape for boxing," said Sergeant McLilly, United States Special Operations Command. "I am working on getting my fighter's license and eventually trying out for the All Army Boxing Team."

Sergeant McLilly was a boxer in his younger years and was looking for a gym that could help him get back into boxing.

"The Fitness Center on base only has one heavy bag," said Sergeant McLilly. "The weights are great to work out with, but there is not enough boxing equipment."

When Sergeant Sanders happened upon Tampa Fight Factory he invited Sergeant McLilly to participate in a seven-day trial offer.

"I have always been more of a grappling kind of guy," said Sergeant Sanders. "But when I started boxing I fell in love with it. I have only been working out for almost two months and already I am amazed at the results."

Not only is the facility a great place to get in shape and learn the ins and outs of boxing, but members get the opportunity to train with professionals.

"You could be on a punching bag right next to a boxer that boxed against Holyfield," said Sanders. "And they will give you personal tips and pointers to help you out."

While Sergeant Sanders is not looking to get a license or box professionally, he and Sergeant McLilly agree that the intense workouts are great for staying in shape and being mission ready.

"It's a totally different type of work out," said Sergeant McLilly. "It is a change from the same mundane workouts you would normally do at home or in the gym, you are boxing for fitness."

Sergeants McLilly and Sanders know they are not the only ones interested in boxing and are encouraging their friends and co-workers to come along to one of their workouts.

"The workouts are tough," said Sergeant Sanders. "But after you are done you feel good."

Anyone interested in joining the boxing crew or just wants a great workout contact Sergeant McLilly at 813-826-0360 or Sergeant Sanders at 813-826-7865.