This page is dedicated to helping you find a good boxing gym. Articles and comments. He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life. Muhammad Ali Finding a boxing gym in your area is not always easy. 1) First try your local Yellow Pages in combination with boxinggyms.com address book to see if there are any gyms in your area. 2) Call the local police and ask them about the P.A.L. (Police Athletic League). They have a long history of giving aspiring fighters their first taste in the fundamentals of pugilism. If you really want to get involved in competitive boxing you need a gym that caters to that, a gym that has experienced trainers who have worked with fighters in the amateur and /or pro ranks. If you want to learn the basics of boxing and get a great workout, but have no aspirations of becoming the next world champ, you might want to stay clear of the more hardcore boxing clubs. Boxing is an incredible and colorful sport but it does attract some unsavory characters. This is really just part of the mystique of boxing, but to some it's just not something they want in their every day life. If this is the case with you, try your local health club or look for a more upscale boxing club that caters more to the workout and not the competition. Most health clubs nowadays have some sort of boxing program geared toward the workout with a non-competitive slant. There's no need to feel ashamed if you don't want to compete. Just think of it as you're saving brain cells for other things. By: Jason Mascartolo MORE: For the average person who has never boxed or been in a boxing gym, it can be an intimidating experience. Just stepping in the door might be the biggest hurdle. One big misconception is that you are going to suffer a painful beating. Truth is probably you won't be allowed in the ring or spar until you are qualified, and then under complete supervision. From beginner to professional, most boxing gyms treat you like a world champion. Prices can very greatly. Don't judge quality on price. There are some lesser priced gyms with great trainers and atmosphere. Gyms usually charge some kind of membership. If you need the newest most updated equipment, it will cost more than a gym with only the basics. Average price for a good boxing trainer is $60 per/hour, but have seen prices from $15 to over $100 per/hour. Cities such as New York will probably cost more just because expenses such as rent have to be factors. A trainer is more important than a gym. You could consider taking private lessons a once week, the other days work out at your local sports club. Most bigger cities have at least one dedicated boxing gym, but it is not guaranteed. More and more sports clubs and fitness facilities are offering boxing programs, but as a rule are dedicated towards fitness. If all fails and there are no gyms in your neighborhood, check for any experienced trainers. You definitely need a good trainer, especially if it is your first time. No matter what, you need to keep up with the road work until you can find a gym and trainer. Boys And Girls Clubs Of America offers boxing programs. Contact them to see if there is a program in your neighborhood. A boxing gym should have the basic equipment, including a boxing ring, heavybags, speedbags, double-end bag, mirrors, ect... How long has the gym been in operation? There was a boxing gym that offered us discount prices, got our monies, then went out of business. Ask about hours of operation and how often trainers are there. Will this fit your schedule... What about membership contracts? Most boxing gyms have memberships and required contracts. Same with any sports or fitness clubs. HOW TO FIND A GOOD BOXING TRAINER