How old are you?

I am 21 years old and currently a senior in college.

When and how did you get into boxing?

I became interested in boxing when I was 15 but didn't start until I was 16. In the boxing world, 16 is considered a late start, but I was determined to learn as quickly as possible. The challenge of learning a new skill motivated me to continue boxing, even though I was one of the two female fighters in the gym.

How do you feel when you're boxing?

The attitude in a boxing gym is "give it your all, and then give it some more." Boxers take a risk when they enter the ring. The only way to prepare is to train your body and mind. Boxing has given me a sense of peace, strength, and confidence that I haven't found with any other sport. I'm learning how to push myself beyond what I thought I could accomplish.

Have you faced any challenges as a female boxer?

Most boxers are male, so I've had people who are unfamiliar with the sport doubt and disrespect me because I'm a woman. Those training to box witness the capabilities of female boxers and understand that size and sex aren't an indicator of one's ability to fight or train.

The discrimination I occasionally face as a female fighter motivates me to prove that anyone can box, even young women. My coach and teammates are extremely supportive. I wouldn't be the fighter I am today without them.

Why do you choose to make time for exercise?

Exercise is an outlet for me to clear my head, relax, and work out any negative energy I may be carrying around with me. The busier I get, the more I realize that exercise helps me feel good mentally. There are days when I can't exercise due to my schedule, but I try to exercise regularly to remain healthy and happy.

Do you have advice for girls who want to start exercising but don't have an activity they're excited about?

I've learned that exercise doesn't have to mean going to the gym. Exercise can mean biking to a coffee shop or working at a job that keeps you moving all day. The gym is only one part of being active. Exercise can be anything that gets your body moving and can help with your mental health and makes you happy.

Other than boxing, what do you do to treat your body well?

Boxing is only one part of my health routine, because while fitness is important to me, I also have to study, take breaks, eat, and spend time with friends. I used to exercise to the point that I was always tired and missed time with family and friends. When I discovered I could go the gym a few times a week, eat healthy, and spend time with my friends, I became the happiest I have ever been. To live a healthy life, I balance gym time with time for my friends and myself. I believe that time to myself is one of the most important aspects of my health routine, and I always strive to get a quiet moment for myself during a busy day. I also try to eat food that fuels me, like eggs and almonds, while still enjoying an occasional treat. I've learned to listen to my body and treat it with love.

What are your tips for feeling confident in your own skin?

I've learned to think less about what my body looks like and more about what my body is capable of doing. This has helped me become a more confident woman.

How about for dealing with your inner critic?

I don't know if there's a way to completely shut off the inner voice that tells us we're not good enough, but you can develop a mindset that your negative inner voice is wrong. My advice is to look around and recognize that people love you because you're unique and strong in your own way. When the inner critic becomes too much, I go to these people for support.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

The best advice I can give is to listen to your body and treat it with love so it can carry you through all of life's challenges. Lastly, support your friends, especially your girlfriends.

Find out how to make a fitness plan that works for you and what other girls are doing to stay fit.

Content last reviewed April 06, 2018
Page last updated April 06, 2018

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