June 28 | Books and Boxing at Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library
The Books and Boxing program offers DC residents, the opportunity to develop both physically and mentally, while having fun and making new friends.
By combining the disciplines of boxing and reading, this initiative will help individuals build confidence, foster a love for learning, and improve their physical health. The program is part of Discover Summer.
Background
The Books and Boxing program is designed to engage the community in a unique combination of physical and mental development through the fusion of boxing and reading. With a focus on building discipline, resilience, and cognitive skills, the program aims to create an empowering space for people to explore their potential both physically and intellectually.
By participating in this program, individuals will learn the fundamentals of and gain the confidence to tackle new challenges through reading. The program will foster a love for books, while boxing training will promote physical fitness and emotional well-being. This initiative seeks to make learning fun and impactful, helping participants develop important life skills.
The program will be led by Daniel Fields, a qualified boxing trainer. He will work alongside librarians to ensure that the reading component is also integrated into the sessions.
Structure of the Program
Participants will receive hands-on instruction in boxing techniques, including:
Basic boxing stances and footwork
Punching drills (jab, cross, uppercut)
Conditioning and strength exercises
Stretching and flexibility
Self-discipline and focus
Boxing Equipment Provided:
Boxing gloves
Hand wraps
Jump ropes
Headgear (for sparring sessions)
Punching mitts
All equipment will be provided to each participant to take home, ensuring they can continue practicing outside of the workshop.
Reading & Literacy Component
Participants will choose at least two books to read throughout the program. The books must be checked out from DC Public Library’s collection. The program encourages participants to select books from a variety of genres, with a focus on:
Adventure stories
Biographies and personal growth
Fiction and nonfiction that promote critical thinking and resilience
Each participant will be asked to share their thoughts and reflections about the books they are reading during the first 30 minutes of each meeting. Group discussions will be facilitated to encourage the development of communication skills, as well as empathy and teamwork.