This book discusses the teachings of Cus D’Amato, most famous for caring for and training boxing greats like Mike Tyson. It’s an easy read- just short of 100 pgs and is written at probably an 8th grade reading level. No frills, just to the point.
Boxing is extremely physical. But it’s more of a mental game than anything else. Since it’s so physically exhausting, that tells you how tough you have to be mentally to be a true fighter.
Physically, you’re using almost every single muscle in your body. You have to shift your weight appropriately, maintain proper posture and balance, keep your hands up at all times and chin tucked, ensure your head is off center, brace your core, clench your toes into the ground, have your knees properly bent, keep your shoulders back, place your sternum slightly forward, and do all of this while being relaxed and not tense. And that’s just to have your stance right.
The mental game is even tougher. It’s a game of chess; your opponent can literally make an infinite number of moves and you have to predict and respond in real time to what they’re doing.
This book explains why mental training for boxing is crucial and uses quotes and strategies from Cus himself to illustrate their importance.
If you’re interested in being a fighter or just have a love for shadow boxing, boxing, sparring or fighting, either read this book or learn about Cus.
This read gets 4/5 gloves.
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