Sports graduate to launch boxing product

University of Brighton alumnus Adam Haniver is set to launch a new training product for the boxing industry. Although the design is under wraps until it reaches the market, his sparring tool transforms the way boxers currently interact with their coach in the ring.

“I’ve conceived a tool to help enhance the skill acquisition of a boxer through enhancing the boxer’s ability to couple perception and action,” says Adam. “Current traditional tools such as focus pads, paddles and heavy bags operate only the principle of action. To hit these objects, there is little-to-no perceptual cues which elicit decision making. In short, they are not representative of the sport of boxing. They teach action without the coupling of perception – the overarching principle of combat sports.”

Adam graduated from BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science in 2000 and went on to receive a postgraduate teaching qualification at the University of Brighton.  The former Southern Counties Light Heavyweight champion works as a full-time boxing coach, helping to turn 16-18 year-olds into elite professionals. In 2014 he founded Eastbourne Boxing Club. He’s now working with a product designer to create a specification that can be used by a manufacturer. He has received advice and support from beepurple, the university’s entrepreneurship support service.

“My product provides a lower and upper target which the coach wears. They have their hands free to act an opponent, not a target. This way the training environment is representative of the sport as there is defence and attack to be considered. Conventional pads tend to be 80/20 attack to defend – not realistic. The acquisition of skill is seriously hindered to due to the lack of specificity in and unrepresentative environment. My product puts the decision making skills back in the boxer’s hands.”

Adam explained how he got the idea: “Critical thinking! Challenging tradition. I’m always asking ‘Can we do it better?’, and challenging the tools and coaching methods we use seemed like an obvious step. As a boxer I found myself thinking I would be better through isolated drills and repetition without the use of my most important tool, my mind! Our approach to learning has to change!”

To keep track of Adam’s progress, follow him on Facebook where he promotes a popular boxing podcast. You can also listen to The Boxing Coaches Podcast.