The Porch Visits Spencer Boxing Gym Helping Others In Community Grow Stronger

Boxing isn't just for people looking to get into competitive fighting, as it can also be a healthy way to burn energy and stay active.

The Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages Porch travelled to a boxing gym in Spencer to learn more about the sport, and learn some tips first-hand.

Sims Boxing Academy offers boxing classes, but also other classes including soccer and basketball.

"We offer boxing... We also teach self defense [and] bully prevention," gym coach Lavell Sims said. "Want to help these kids in school. A lot of kids have issues trying to trigger their anger, so I figured they can come here and learn boxing. I'd rather they do it here than actually go out in school and get in trouble."

Sims said one of his students, Amelie, a high school senior, drives from Tecumseh to come to his gym and train for for the past two years.

"She's a hard worker," Sims said. "Her and Bradley (another student) have a competition coming up on the 20th, they're going to St. Louis."

In addition to a gym for strengthening children's bodies, Sims Boxing Academy offers other amenities to help strengthen their minds too.

"We have a silent library," Sims said. "Kids come here [and] [check out books. Like I said we have after school basketball program, soccer, 4-H kids who learn how to grow fruits and vegetables, raise livestock like sheep and goats. On-site daycare, counseling... We actually offer that as well."