It seems likely I wasn’t among a group big enough to have made history as part of the world’s largest boxing lesson, but I still came away with a tremendous amount of respect for former heavyweight champion David Haye and his desire to popularise the sport he loves.
The 40-minute lesson taught by Haye and his Hayemaker Gym staff was hardly what you would call a workout.
This is not to brag, but I barely broke a sweat going through the entire session and was surprised to hear it was coming to an end because I thought there would surely be something more strenuous.
But if you went to the lesson expecting to get tested physically, you went in with the wrong mindset, as many people do when attempting to get into boxing.
It isn’t just about being fit and strong, it’s about mental focus and technique. It’s no wonder then that Haye constantly reminded the participating crowd to pay attention to their form on their punches.
“Rotate the back foot, keep your hand tucked next to your chin,” Haye bellowed from the stage. Anytime the crowd started getting lazy with their technique, Haye would stop the set and start over, encouraging everyone to get it right.
The British fighter didn’t need to be so involved. After all, the main goal of the event was to break a world record and raise money for a good cause in the process.
But Haye ensured that it was also about boxing and exercising in general, promoting a healthy lifestyle for all ages.
While the lesson wasn’t taxing, it was fun and mentally challenging. You never realise how much body movement goes into a punch and how one little variation can ruin a throw.
Knowing how to throw a jab or hook is nice, but learn it from a boxer who has used those punches in the ring in real fights against real opponents and you’ll appreciate just how much work goes into honing the craft.
Are all the people who came and followed Haye’s direction now experts on the sport? No, but they likely all came away with a unique and enlightening experience.
World record or not, that’s more than I could have asked for.
