Thursday, January 12, 2012

What to Know About Boxing Rings?


Boxing pits one man against another in an athletic test of courage and skill. All boxing matches take place in an approved ring, often referred to as the squared circle. Boxing's different sanctioning bodies require promoters to construct rings according to accepted specifications, with the ring's dimensions and features meant to protect fighter safety and guarantee competitive balance.
Size
Even though they all share the same basic square shape, boxing rings may actually vary in size. According to the rules of the World Boxing Organization, rings used for World Championship fights must measure between 18 and 24 feet per side. The Amateur International Boxing Association, the governing body for the Olympics, requires all rings to measure 20 feet per side.
Ropes
A series of ropes made of soft, padded material encircle the boxing ring to prevent fighters from exiting or from being knocked from the ring. Most rings have either three or four ropes per side, with 1 foot between ropes. The WBO requires each rope measures at least 1 inch in diameter. The top rope should hang between 4 feet and 4 feet 6 inches above the ring floor, high enough to ensure fighters won't lean back and topple to the outside. Promoters must make certain that the ropes can support a fighter leaning against them without giving way. The ropes connect at corner ring posts, which must also be padded for the fighters' safety.
Floor
A boxing ring floor typically consists of a wooden foundation at least 1-inch thick covered in another inch of Ensoline or similar foam padding. Ring builders then stretch a water-resistant canvas over the entire floor. The ring floor must also extend beyond the ropes by at least 18 inches to prevent fighters from accidentally stepping out of the ring during competition. While elevated to allow better viewing for spectators, the ring floor must not be higher than 4 feet above the arena floor.
Considerations
Ring conditions can play a critical role in the outcome of a fight. Slick boxers prefer larger rings so they have plenty of room to jab and move, staying one step ahead of their opponents. Meanwhile, power punchers and inside fighters favor smaller rings, which prevent opponents from running away. Even looser ropes can provide an advantage to defensive fighters, who can lean back against the ropes to roll away from punches and avoid punishment. Crafty promoters will build the ring to compliment their fighter's individual strengths.

 
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