The Speedball - advantages and function

Its unmistakable thunder-like sound in rhythm, together with its high speed, makes for an impressive sight for spectators. This is why film and television often show work on the speedball, which in turn has helped the training device to become known far beyond boxing thanks to its frequent appearances in the media.

But it is not only because of its spectacular appearance that boxers use the speedball in training. It also offers a number of additional benefits for training.

One important aspect that comes up time and again in boxing is hand-eye coordination. Regular work with the speedball improves this. Anyone who has ever stood in front of the training device knows that there is more to the Speedball:

The Speedball is like meditation for me. I now concentrate on the only thing that matters.

Wladimir Klitschko 

It strengthens the focus on the essentials and helps to maintain concentration even under increasing physical stress. In Klitschko's case, the focus goes so far that it almost seems as if the world around him ceases to exist. This absolute focus helps to be unavoidable in the fight and therefore to be able to direct 100% attention to the opponent. At the same time, it can also help an athlete to calm down and thus ensure mental regeneration.

In training, the speedball is ideal for warming up and warming down the athlete, as it does place a strain on the body, but does not completely exhaust the athlete. The physical strain is mainly on the shoulder girdle muscles. Frequent training on the device will make it easier for the athlete to keep their hands up and thus maintain a stable guard. This can be a key advantage in sparring and fighting, especially when it comes to a higher number of rounds.

Another important aspect for coaches is that the Speedball offers enormous advantages for athletes who are still in the development process. Less experienced and especially younger athletes can train excellently that just because something is moving at very high speed, dangerously close to their face, they should not close their eyes. This innate human reflex actually serves to protect the eyes.

In boxing, however, it is counterproductive, as it is dangerous not to see your opponent even for a fraction of a second. For less advanced athletes, the training device is an excellent way to learn how to deal with this problem without being directly involved in a sparring session or fight, as these present other challenges.

All in all, the speedball is one of the essential training devices in boxing with a number of advantages. In addition to its suitability for warm-up/warm-down and improved hand-eye coordination through training, it is particularly good because it promotes the athlete's focus. Regular use in certain circumstances can be a great advantage in sparring and fighting situations. Last but not least, working on the training device helps athletes to further develop their skills. Due to its unique combination of training properties, training with the Speedball is definitely recommended; and last but not least, it looks very spectacular.