2011...What A Year!

Hello, loyal followers of "The Brick".
The Holidays are quickly approaching, and there will not be a lot happening.
Stockyards will be closed for the Holidays. Richard is there every damn day of the week, so no one can really fault him for wanting to take holidays off.
I will also soon be changing to "Winter Schedule", which will be posted here once I find out if there are any changes with class schedules at either of the gyms.

This will be my last post in this blog for 2011.
This was a rough year for me. There were a lot of ups and downs. I learned about who I can and can not trust in the world of boxing in Toronto.
Hopefully, I can use this knowledge to my advantage to make 2012 a better year.
My goal is to be competing by the summer.
With my great new coach, I don't think that is an unreasonable expectation.

Stockyards had another great live boxing event this past Friday. Their last for the year. There is another scheduled for February, apparently at a different venue. Rick announced it, but he did not give any details. It looks like he will be renting a bigger place for his next event, but we do not know where. I hope it is not too far.
As for the Stockyards boxers, Junmar won his match, but unfortunately Mikhail lost his after two Standing-8's in Round Three.
Both of these bouts will be posted on YouTube later this week by my production company, D-I-T-O Productions. With any luck, I would like to have Junmar's bout available in 3D. Unfortunately, I have been having problems with the new software, so the 3D may have to wait until next time.
Copies of the event will be available to everyone at regular rates, Blu-Ray $15, DVD $10, Unauthored DVD $5. These will be available in January. Contact me for details.

Moving forward to the Holiday season, I will continue my regular training. As the song says, "In the warrior's code, there's no surrender, his body says stop,  his spirit cries never".
Bloor Gym is open during the Holiday season for members, and you can be sure I will be in there on December 25, pounding away on the bag!

Anyway, another year over and gone forever.
To all my readers, Happy Holidays, whatever Holidays you celebrate.


Paul "The Brick" Brec
Stockyards Boxing Team, Masters Novice Division, Heavyweight (92 kg)

How's That Hook, Bush ?

Hey all, I have to say it has been a very slow week on the boxing front in Toronto. I feel it is going to be this way all month. It is "that time of year", people are "busy" with other things, getting ready for the Holidays, and coming up with every excuse in the book to not want to get to the gym.
I went in to Richard's class on Saturday, and there was nobody there. However, Richard did some work with me. He wanted to see my hook, "How's your left hook, Bush"
I showed him, and he was impressed. Junmar was there and said, "I have tried to show him that for a long time, and he could not get it."
Yeah, like I said last week, Rick has some super-power that allows him to teach things that nobody else can.
Also, I don't know why Rick calls me "Bush". Well, anyway, moving on...

Rick said that he was going to be taking the entire month of January off. That is disappointing. One of the big reasons I go to stockyards is because of Coach Rick. Although, I think Junmar and Tony will still be having their classes, but neither of them are certified boxing coaches. Oh, no. Do you think I can go a whole month without any coaching? Who's going to call me "Bush"?
I guess I am going to have to coach myself, and practice everything Rick has taught me. Keep working on that hook.

Coach has also announced something very special he is planning for the summer. It is so special that I can't tell you right now.  I promised Rick I would not say anything.


In other news from Stockyards, we will be having another living boxing event, this coming Friday. Bouts start at 8:00 PM. Please come out and support our gym and watch some great boxing. Junmar will be on the card, as will as one of our newer boxers, Mikhail. I have sparred Mikhail in the past, and he is pretty good. I don't remember ever seeing him compete before. I think this is his first time.
Good luck to both of our Stockyards athletes.

As always, you will be able to view the bouts on YouTube.

If you are not sure where to find the Stockyards Boxing Gym, it is now pinned to Google Maps. Within Google Maps, just do a search for "Stockyards  Boxing, Toronto", and it will point you to the exact location.
We are located at 215 Ryding Avenue in the Junction, near St. Clair Ave. W. and Runnymede Rd. There is free parking in the George Bell Arena parking lot, or you can take the bus. From Runnymede station, take the 71B or 79 to St. Clair, and walk east along St. Clair to Colbalt Street, then one block south, or take the 71 from Runnymede station, and it stops at Cobalt Street.
The 71 and 71B are every 22 minutes in the evening (alternating every 11 minutes each), and the 79 is every 12 minutes. Visit TTC for the full schedules.

On Thursday, I did nine rounds of sparring with the guys at Bloor Gym. There was also a girl in the sparring class for some reason, but the instructor asked us not to hit her. I would not do that anyway. I had some fun with her. I was moving around and getting some exercise, that's about it. Of course, I take it more seriously with the men.

I'm not sure if Bloor will be having live boxing again, but if they do, I will log it here once it has been announced.


That is all for this Blue Corner Comment.


Paul "The Brick" Brec
Stockyards Boxing Team, Masters Novice Division, Heavyweight (92 kg)

I Did It...I Finally Did It...The Left Hook!

Well, another week of training gone by already.
There was another sparring day at Bloor, and more training with Richard at Stockyards.
The sparring at Bloor was nothing special this week, and it does not help that I can not video record my performance.
However, Coach Rick's class on Saturday was great. He was able to teach me to hook! Amazing! It is! For years, I have had problems with that damn left hook. Many coaches have tried to teach me. Even Junmar tried, and he's a good teacher. For some reason, it is one of those things that I could never grasp.
Well, Coach Rick was able to do it.  Through his amazing teaching techniques and patience he was able to succeed where other coaches have failed.
I tell you, Richard is amazing.
Look out, The Brick has a new weapon in his arsenal, and is not afraid to use it.

For some reason, Coach Rick now calls me "The Bush". What? I'm not even going to comment on that. Very funny Richard. Keep your day job.
What is wrong with The Brick?


Also, Bloor Boxing had some live boxing happening on Saturday, and it looks like it may be a happening more frequently. It has been over a year since the last one.
Mike asked me to photograph the event. The photos can be viewed here:
http://sports.webshots.com/album/581923250NxwsXI

It was a lot of fun, and both Mike and Paul thanked me for helping.
Not a problem. If you are good to me, I don't mind doing extra things for you.

I went to Bloor Gym on Sunday evening, there was nobody there, but I saw this:

No comment.

I won't ask.
Unfortunately, they were all empty. 

In other news on the boxing front: Jennifer Huggins is now a head official for Boxing Ontario. Yes, Jennifer from my favorite boxing gym, Kingsway. She was at the boxing on Saturday.

For the longest time, Carrie Ireland was the head official, and we became friends. She used to be a bitch to me when I first met her, but after we began to work together and understand each other, she turned out to be really friendly. Even though I don't like a lot of the things Boxing Ontario does, that is not the fault of the officials.
I hope Carrie is coming back.
Jennifer spent the whole evening giving me dirty looks.
I think the way she is handling this is childish. I don't like her boxing gym, and I don't like her coaches. Big deal. That is not going to change, and giving me dirty looks is not going to help. It just makes her look bad.
I am going to be involved with boxing for a very long time. I am not going away. She had better get used to me being around. What is she going to do once I start competing? As an official, she can not take things personally. If she screws me over (again), I will complain to Boxing Ontario.
She is handling this wrong. I'm not going into this again, but a lot of this is her fault. Grow up and accept it.

That is all for this week's report.

Paul "The Brick" Brec
Stockyards Boxing Team, Masters Novice Division, Heavyweight (92 kg)

Just When I Think All Is Well...But I Do have A Fan!

Well,  there will be no more sparring videos from Bloor on this blog.
Just when I thought things were going well, some asshole has to spoil it.
Would you believe that someone actually complained about my video recording our sparring? This is done by many boxing gyms so the boxers can review their performance. Yeah, excuse me for being helpful. I'll have to remember to not ever do that again.
Why the hell would someone complain? Oh yeah, this is Bloor Street Fitness, the cry-baby capital of Toronto.
I was told by Kobe that I can not have the camera in his class any more. I think I should be able to record my own sparring, however it is his class, and I don't want to upset the babies.
It still bothers me. My God, you are a boxer. Be a man. Shit!
Interestingly, Mike, the manager, asked me to photograph the boxing event on December 3.  That's fine. Mike is a nice guy, and I don't mind helping him.
Also, I was discussing  the sparring with some friends who also train with me at Stockyards. There is some concern about it. First of all, some guys are not wearing the proper gear. You should always have mouthgaurd, headgear, and sparring gloves. We have noticed that this is not always the case. Even if this is supposed to be soft sparring, you should wear the proper equipment. Why is the proper use of gear not being enforced? A lot are not wearing headgear, and one was actually wearing bag gloves instead of sparring gloves. All the gear should be checked before sparring, and anyone not wearing the proper equipment should not be allowed in the ring. It is very simple.
That brings up another issue,some guys are hitting 'way too hard for soft sparring. As I mentioned in a previous entry, I don't care. If a guy hits too hard, I hit back equally as hard.
However, what if someone gets injured?  Knowing that place, some cry-baby will complain.
Then what if Boxing Ontario finds out? Bloor is still not officially certified for sparring. Plus, we did not have a coach this week, and they don't have a regular coach.
Bloor should have a full-time coach certified by Boxing Ontario, plus the venue needs to be certified as well. Although they did get a temporary certification for the boxing in December, it is not allow sparring on a regular basis.
If one of the cry-babies complains, and Boxing Ontario finds out, they will have a shit-fit. You think Paul Ryan's shit-fits are bad? You don't want to see a Boxing Ontario shit-fit. It could very well affect future requests for certification. 
If Boxing Ontario refuses future requests by Bloor, it could mean a total shut-down of all the boxing programs at Bloor Fitness. Seriously, Paul might close the boxing gym. Of course, that will mean I will no longer be going there, along with a lot of other people.
This is typical of the usual drama that goes on at Bloor Fitness.
You know, I could make a soap opera based on Bloor Fitness. Hmmmmm....

In other news on the boxing front, the other day at Stockyards after training, someone came to be and said, "You are Blue Corner?"..."The Blue Corner Blog, That is you?"
Wow! This is great. It is nice to know that I have a regular reader who recognizes me. Thank you for your support. Actually, thank you to everyone who reads my entries. It is because of all of you that keeps me motivated to keep writing. Also, if you have any suggestions for future entries, feel free to use the comments section.

Video from Thursday's sparring class:
{This is where the video would go, but thanks to Asshole, there isn't one...Thanks Asshole.}

Paul "The Brick" Brec
Stockyards Boxing Team, Masters Novice Division, Heavyweight

Sparring At Bloor: The Video

Hi all.
I talk a lot about sparring, and they have a great class at Bloor Boxing. Kobe is a pretty good teacher. Of course he is a pretty good boxer himself.
I have decided to start video recording the sparring. It is a great tool for boxers to grade their performance.
Whenever I can, I'd like to share some sparring sessions with you. If you have never boxed before, and are interested in starting, this will give you a good idea of what it is about. If you are a boxer already, it may give you a few ideas, or maybe you can give me some. Sometimes the best coach is another boxer.

This first sparring round was a bit short because we spent the majority of the round getting instructions from the coach. This round was me vs. Oliver. Oliver is a good friend who also trains at Sully's gym.

This was two consecutive rounds with one of the new guys. This guy hit pretty hard, so I hit him hard as well. In between rounds, the instructor provided some feedback.

I hope this helps give you an idea of some of the stuff we do in sparring class. I hope to be able to upload a bit of video from each class.


Paul "The Brick" Brec
Stockyards Boxing Team, Masters Novice Division, Heavyweight

A New Coach At Bloor Could Legalize Sparring

Another week of boxing training has proven to be interesting.
As usual, Junmar killed me with his class on Tuesday, I did my own training on Wednesday, but Richard was not around for some reason.
On Thursday, I did the usual sparring class at Bloor, but there was something different about it. They have imported a coach from another club to oversee the sparring.
This is a very interesting turn of events. Having a certified coach during sparring, "legalizes" the sparring at Bloor.
I recognize this coach, but I do not remember his name, or the gym he represents.
I am not sure of the underlying reason why Bloor is bringing in this coach. Right now he is not really coaching in the true meaning of the word.  He is just watching the sparring and providing instructions based on the sparring. There may be plans in the future for this coach to provide classes as well. You need both, feedback and classes.
In the meantime, I am still attending Stockyards. Richard's boxing classes on Saturday are still very technically intensive, which is good.
The funny thing is Richard approached me on Saturday and was basically amazed that I was still attending his gym. Well, why not? Rick is a great coach. He was very appreciative at the fact that I have not switched full-time to Bloor.
The truth is, I don't want to switch full-time to Bloor. It is still questionable as to what is going on there. At least with Stockyards, I know exactly what is happening, and the expectations.
As I mentioned, they really still don't have a full-time coach at Bloor. Standing outside the ring, barking instructions is helpful, but not enough.
Rick has actual classes where he teaches boxing. Bloor Fitness is still mostly an aerobics studio. Although, I appreciate what they are doing there, it still needs work. I suggest, in addition to Kobe's sparring class, have actual technical boxing classes as well. That might be the plan with this new coach, but it is too early to tell.
The sparring class at Bloor is getting very popular. They had some more new guys again.
This one guy, I sparred first, was very fast. His first jab nailed me square in the nose! Shit! This guy is fast! I can usually defend pretty good against a jab. I did not even see that coming, until it hit me. The sharp pain through my nose was a good indication that it was quite possibly hit by a flying leather glove with a nice hard fist in it.
OK, so this is a good practice for defense. Pain is a very good teacher.
One thing I am finding, younger guys are more aggressive when boxing. The guys in my division tend to not hit as hard. It makes sense, I mean, you don't have to knock me out to win. It is only a sport. However, the guys in their 20's are full of aggression, and like to hit really hard.
I'm tough, so it does not bother me that much. Like I said, pain is a good teacher.
I sparred six different guys on Thursday, including one in my division.  What I have learned is that when a guy gets too aggressive, the best thing to do is to do the same. In most cases, I have found that he will back off a bit. Believe me, I can hit hard too! Try me.
That is all for this report.
I would like to remind everyone that "Fight Night 3" will be happening this Friday at Stockyards. So far, there are nine confirmed bouts. I hope you can come out to join us. Bouts start at 8 PM. I will be video recording the bouts. Contact me to purchase a copy.
Bloor will also be having boxing on December 3.

Paul "The Brick" Brec
Stockyards Boxing Team, Masters Novice Division, Heavyweight

Sparring the Coach..Oh, No, Not This Again !

I went to Richard's boxing lesson yesterday.
He put us through some rigorous training and technical boxing for about an hour.
We did ab work and tons of  push-ups (my favorite), and of course boxing drills.
We worked on the 1-2, 1-2-3, 1-2-3-4, and then add a slip. How about 1,2,3,slip, 1,2,3,slip,4...?
Then we did the same on the bag.
During a lot of class, Richard was sitting at his desk "working" on the computer. He was just yelling instructions to us. Sometimes he joined in, but did a lot of other "work" as well.
After class was over, some of the other students left, and then Richard said to me, "We are sparring today, gear up".
I did not have my sparring gear, because I was not expecting to spar, so I had to borrow the gym's equipment. I don't like doing that, so from now on, I will just bring my gear every Saturday. I have all the gear, I should be using it. I even have sparring gloves now. Apparently "real" boxers have separate gloves for sparring and for the bag. I guess that makes me a real boxer, doesn't it?
I am not a fan of sparring the coach. I guess I have a "complex" about receiving comments from the coach. I am so used to the wise-ass comments and dirty looks from that other so-called boxing gym, I guess I am now just expecting it. Of course, Richard is not like that. He actually provided a lot of useful feedback.
I found out that I have a habit of dropping my left when I throw a right cross. How did I find out?
He told me that every time I dropped that hand, he would nail me. Take a guess what happened? I dropped my left, and he nailed me with a hook...a few times.
Besides that, he told me that I needed to work on Cardio. He said that I was tired after one round. Well, yeah, what was I doing for the last hour? Did I not just train for an hour as opposed to sitting at my desk? I don't think that was fair. I could spar 85 rounds if I was walking into the ring fresh. Give me a break.
After sparring, was talked a bit, and he told me that he does not really know about my chances of ever competing again. According to him, we need to do some more training and sparring.
Well, at least that is an honest answer. I don't expect him to give me an answer right now. He has been my coach for how long? Just over two months? It is too early to tell. I will do anything he suggests in order to get back into that ring again, and in the meantime, I will be keeping in shape. That is the whole idea of getting back into boxing.
Moving on to Sunday. I slept in really late, and missed class at Stockyards, so I went to Bloor instead.  Usually Bloor is quiet on Sundays. This week there was some guy there who thinks he knows how to box, and he was playing some Gawd-awful music. Seriously, I am going to create a new music category called "Gawd-awful".
This is a bit off-topic, but I am going to be talking about this in one of my future Broadcasting Blog entries.  There is a running gag about my feelings about modern music.  On February 4, 1993, music officially began to suck. Therefore, all of my favorite songs are before that date. There is more to it than that.
Check out 'Comments From Behind the Camera' for information about my experiences and comments about Broadcasting and Media.
Well, that is all for this entry.

Paul "The Brick" Brec
Stockyards Boxing Team, Heavyweight Masters Novice Division

Someone Needs A Boxing Lesson...

How do you like the new intro photo ?

I put some photos of my training at Stockyards on Facebook. Someone from work made some comments about them.
I will discuss that a bit later, but for now, dum...dum...da...dum... a Bloor Sparring Class update. (Echo)
Sparring class with Kobe at Bloor Gym was very busy this past Thursday. I ended up doing 10 rounds of sparring. All different classes and skills. I had some newbies, plus the big professional was back. All together there were 10 people in this class, which was the most I have ever seen there.
There were a couple of girls there, too. I will not discuss this any more, as you all know how I feel about girls in combat sports. However, if they want to get involved, it should be girl verses girl. Don't put girl with guy.
They had a bit of that during Thursday's class, but please don't put me against a girl. I really would not like that.
Anyway, overall it was a very constructive class.  I learned a few things and taught a few things.
Now, speaking of teaching. Here are some photos from Wednesday's training at Stockyards:

Defensive shadow boxing

Straight right

Footwork practice

Heavy bag, jab

Heavy bag

Speed bag

This gives you an idea of a training session at Stockyards Boxing Gym.
Someone from work said, "Too many arm-punches. You need to put more shoulder into it." This person has obviously been boxing for a very long time. (Sarcastic)
You do not put shoulder into a jab. You step into a jab. You use your shoulder for your right cross, which I do as you see in the photo above.
I know these people mean well, but if you have never boxed before, you really should not be offering advise. Especially since my coach is a former professional whose last opponent was Hector Camacho.
I'll listen to Coach Rick, before anyone from work.

Here is a little video of me on the speed bag. This is different from the one on Facebook. This one was a FAIL!

That is all for this entry.

Keep your hands up and your chin down.
--Paul "The Brick" Brec
Stockyards Boxing Team, Heavyweight Masters Novice Division

An Odd Request From A Coach In Welland

I would like to start off by saying congrats to Junmar. His class was full yesterday:

Wow.
I arrived late, because the Mississauga bus was late as usual. I really could not get in to participate in his class, so I did my own training.
Junmar's classes are always very popular, and it looks like some people from Bloor have followed him to Stockyards.
Although I like his class, there is really not much boxing involved. Richard would much prefer his boxers go to his technical boxing classes on weekends. I do that too!
Richards has also announced more Tai Chi classes. That is good news.
While we are on the topic of Stockyards, there was some really good boxing this past Friday. I video recorded all of the matches, and I am currently editing them. Most will be available for viewing soon.
However, I did receive a rather odd request from the coach of Nappers Boxing in Welland. He wanted me to remove his boxers' bouts from YouTube. However, he wants a DVD copy of them.
Yeah, let me think about this, mmmmmmm.....No.
His reason for this? He is worried that another coach might study his boxers. Oh, no! That is the last thing we want. Shit.
Give it a break. I sense a bit of paranoia. This is amateur boxing. I am sure the coaches have better things to do with their time. I know Richard does not have time for that crap. Just focus on coaching your own athletes. Don't worry about others.
The piss off part for me is that he still expects me to use my time to produce a DVD for him.
I have decided that this one time only, I will  honor his request, but not again.
Okay, let me explain how this works. It is obvious that some people don't understand this extremely complicated procedure.
A sporting event is news, that means that anyone can go to the event and video record or photograph the event. The finished product then belongs to the person who shot the event, and  therefore can use and distribute said material in any manner.
Secondly, D-I-T-O Productions is a non-profit organization. We rely on revenue from Google AdSense to help pay for the production costs, and uploading costs. It helps keep the costs of our hard copies minimal, and in some cases, free. If we remove videos, we are no longer paid for that video, and therefore will have to increase the costs of the hard copies, which used to be free for coaches.
Third, it takes a lot of my time to edit and upload these. I think it is very rude and disrespectful of my time to ask me to remove something. Therefore, I will not do it again.
The new rates for hard copies of bouts are as follows: Blu-ray copies will increase from $9 to $15, DVD copies will increase from $4 to $10, and Unauthored DVDs (RAW files) will increase from $1 to $5, and no more "First copy free for coaches", effective now.
Now, as I continue to rant, on to one of my favorite organizations, Boxing Ontario. Yes, you all know how much I like them.
I am in the process of filing the Bureaucratic Bullshit paperwork that is required to become registered, so I can do hard sparring. Rick said that I need a full Boxing Ontario membership to do sparring, even if I don't compete.
I asked Rick how he felt, because I do not want to "invest" $57 into Ripoff Ontario for nothing. If I don't have a chance in hell, why bother?  Richard then said, "OK, let me work with you a bit more, first".
Shit. That is not the answer I wanted to hear, but I guess I asked for it. My fault...my fault.
Anyway, I am thinking of lying about my age on the registration form. I am putting 1972 as my birthday.  First of all, I feel that it would be real difficult to get opponents if I put my real age. Secondly, they really don't need to know my real age. They can't stop me from boxing based on age, anyway. Therefore, what difference does it make?
Boxing Ontario can reboot my Wang.

Paul "The Brick" Brec
Member of the Stockyards Boxing Team

Sparring Report From Bloor and "Fight Night 2"

Well, Richard is really doing a good job on the gym. He has added a few nice touches.

Stockyards Boxing Gym

You have to like the boxing gloves hanging above the desk, but Richard, the wimpy speakers have to go.

Very "Old School"

Wimpy speakers

While I am on the topic of Stockyards, I would like to remind everyone that this Friday evening, October 21, is "Fight Night 2". Please come out and support us. The bouts start at 8:00. I will be video recording all the bouts again, and most will be available on YouTube and DVD/Blu-ray.
"Fight Night 1" is now available on hi-def Blu-ray. You get five exciting bouts from Stockyards' first boxing event. Each is $10. Contact me if interested.
There has been a bit of a change for "Fight Night 2". The arena is not allowing Richard to use the hockey change rooms, so he will have to use his broom closet change rooms. Really? Hmmm...I remember someone mentioning something like that before...? Oh, yeah, it was me. Something about Bullshit Boulevard. So, once again Paul is rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.......................???

Moving on to Bloor Gym. We had another very good sparring session this evening.

Sparring class, Thursdays at 8:30 PM

There were some pretty big guys in there, including one who is close to a professional level. Yes, I sparred him, and I have to say I did quite well. I was able to break right through his defense and impressed the hell out of the instructor.  Hmmm....I did well against a soon-to-be pro? Well, Pacquiao, you're next!  

Sparring instructor look on as myself and other boxer wait our turn.

I sparred this big dude on the right, he hits hard, but has weak defense.

That is all for this report. Not a lot to say. Not a lot is bothering me. Yeah, I know, surprise. Enjoy this post, it is not often I am not complaining.

Paul "The Brick" Brec

One step Forward, Two Steps Back...I Used To Know How To Box

Well, I am beginning to get comfortable with my new coach. He has a completely different way of teaching...common sense.
I have so far learned a lot from Rick.  I have had a bad habit of leaning forward and becoming off balance. It is amazing that Richard was able to find a simple fix for this that was easy to understand.
It is amazing that the other boxing gym (Kingsway), made the sport so complicated. One of the coaches actually wrote a 50 or so page manual on boxing. Seriously. I still have it. Believe me, boxing is not that complicated. No wonder I was getting so confused. The object of boxing is to score points, and to keep your opponent from scoring. Yeah, imagine that!
I'm sorry to keep bringing up Kingsway, but it really annoys me the time and money I wasted there. Trust me, don't ever go to Kingsway. You are much better off going to Stockyards. You are even better off going to Bloor for that matter.
Yes, I am once again having to "start over", but this coach is very different.Between Rick's coaching, Junmar's training, and Tony's Tai Chi, I think I am in good hands.
Now, I have to discuss Bloor Fitness, again. As I have been mentioning, I am questioning what the hell is going on there. I have now heard that they want to start having live boxing again, and they are still talking about becoming certified for teaching competition boxing. That's great, but who's going to teach? They don't have any certified coaches. Is Paul going to teach? Give me a break. He has no interest in coaching. The man has a shit-fit over a bit of sparring. If he is interested in teaching, instead of lecturing, he'd coach us. If they are going to certify for competition, they have to start  allowing sparring. That is part of training for boxing.
Anyway, based on all this, I have created my fall schedule for boxing training. This schedule will be in affect until the Holidays:

SUNDAY 2:30 PM-3:30 PM, Tia Chi with Tony at Stockyards
MONDAY (off) At-home training
TUESDAY 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Boxing Training with Junmar at Stockyards
WEDNESDAY 8:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Open Training at Stockyards
THURSDAY 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM, Light Sparring Class with Kobe at Bloor
FRIDAY (off) At-home training
SATURDAY 10:00 AM - 12:00 NOON, Technical Boxing and Sparring with Richard at Stockyards

Paul "The Brick" Brec

Is Tai Chi Good For Boxers? Let's Find Out!

Yes, you read that correctly. The big, bad boxer has tried Tai Chi Chuan.
In an interesting turn of events, Richard Souce has hired a Kung Fu master to teach at Stockyards Fitness. This now makes Stockyards the only fitness center in Toronto that teaches Chinese Arts. Yes, there are martial arts schools that teach these, but not a fitness center.
It looks like Rick is getting very aggressive when it comes to getting new members.  I have heard that he has recently spoke with the manager of the Ryerson Rams hockey team, who play at George Bell Arena, and he is trying to get the entire team to train at Stockyards. If that happens, that is going to be a huge boost to his membership drive. All those players telling other people about how great it is to train at Stockyards!
One thing about Rick is that he is not money-hungry like some other gyms, not mentioning any names (Kingsway). He told me himself that he likes teaching, and would be perfectly happy just breaking-even. Honestly, he is putting a lot of work into this, and I feel that he deserves all the members he can get.
The new instructor is Tony, and he is a Chinese Martial Arts expert. He is a really nice guy, so I thought I'd give him a chance, and try his class.

What does it look like when a boxer tries Tai Chi? Answer: Dork.

Anyone who does not believe this art works, needs to try it. This is actually based on Kung Fu, and can be used for self defense. The idea behind this is, a lot of stretching and breathing. Some of the movements can be used for blocking strikes.

Yeah, I got it....I think?

 It is all about getting everything into one fluid motion while controlling breathing. It seems simple from the outside, but once you try it yourself, you will learn otherwise.

OK, so I hold the ball like this?

I guess you are all wondering, will I be taking this class again? The answer is "Yes". There is a lot more to learn and I feel that this could at least help with my boxing training. I will be going every Sunday I can to learn more about this interesting Chinese art.
Tony also knows weapons, sword and Bo Staff. Maybe he will teach me those too. Yeah, imagine me with a sword?
TAI CHI CHUAN DEMO AT STOCKYARDS GYM
To sum up about Stockyards, it is great to see this is working out for Richard. He deserves it. He is working very hard, and is not being greedy about it. Congratulations, Rick. Looking good.
This past Saturday, Rick let me do some sparring with Junmar. I was really worried that Junmar would make me look like an idiot. Quite on the contrary, he was a great teacher. However, Rick did say that if I wanted to continue sparring, I would need my Boxing Ontario certification. I hope he understands that I am kind of reluctant to do that. It is a $57 fee, plus regular physical check-ups, and about 75 forms to fill in. It is not just the money, put it is a bit of a pain in the ass. I don't mind doing it, if it is going to get me somewhere. However, remember the disaster at Kingsway? That whole experience was a huge waste of time. I really need to sit down with Rick and discuss this. If he wants me to get a competitive certification, and will take the time to train me for such, then I will happily get certification.
Before I finish up today's entry,  I would like to comment about Bloor Fitness. I have to say again, that I really like it there. However, I am noticing a lot of drama going on there. Reading my past entries on this blog, I have noticed that a lot of the drama that restricts my goal to become a boxer again, is surrounded around Bloor.  Last week's "blow-up" by Paul, was almost the last straw. One of the reasons I like Bloor Fitness is that they really do have great customer service. However, I have been working in customer service myself for 12 years, and the rules of customer service are very easy. Rule Number One: The customer is always right...Rule Number Two: If the customer is wrong, see rule number one.
Even if Paul is right about the whole sparring thing, he should not be lecturing the members. We are his customers, and keep him in business.
With all of the improvements that are going on at Stockyards, the need to train at Bloor is decreasing. Although I like to convenience of Bloor Fitness being close and open 24 hours, I do not need all the extra drama. As I keep saying, "I just want to be a boxer, damnit." I think I am going to make this my nickname for now.
I appreciate what the staff at Bloor are doing, but I think there is a lot of "infighting" between the staff, manager, and owner. I may notice it more because I have been there a long time, and know everyone there. I hate to say it, eventually other members are going to notice it as well. That is not good for a business.
Yes, I am keeping my Bloor membership for now. I will be going in for Thursday's sparring, until "Party-Pooper Paul" puts a stop to it. However, I think for now, the majority of my training will be at Stockyards. The fact that there is no shower at Stockyards is becoming less of an issue. It is surprising what a spray bottle can do!
Enough for now....

Paul "I Just Want To Be A Boxer Damnit" Brec

Sparring Days May Be Numbered At Bloor

Well, I went in today for sparring class at Bloor Fitness, and the owner Paul Ryan was there. It is unusual for him to be there so late, but there was a reason.
Apparently, he was not aware of all of these sparring sessions. To put it lightly, he had a shit-fit. I 'm not sure if you remember when I mentioned that I have never experienced one of his lectures? Now I have. Lucky me.
I have to say that to a certain extent he is right. Bloor is not certified for sparring. At the same time, he said that we were doing hard sparring, and not wearing headgear.  Well, we were not wearing headgear because we were supposed to be soft sparring.
I would have thought that if the staff of Bloor were allowing sparring, that it had been cleared by Paul. However, the staff are trying to keep the members happy by doing what was requested.
I think this is one of those situations where everyone is right and let's agree to disagree.
I don't think there is anything wrong with doing light sparring with supervision, and from what I hear, despite Paul's shit-fit, they will continue the light sparring sessions. That is good. I came very close to cancelling by Bloor membership today.
After class ended, somebody, I will not say whom, was throwing the medicine ball around. It was not me by the way. It bounced of the floor, and hit the mirror. The mirror is now broken. It was an accident, but I can see Paul having another shit-fit.
The old guy is going to have a stoke over all this.
In other gym news: Barry Llewelyn, one of the former owners of the Lansdowne Boxing gym, is planning on opening a new location in the Yonge and Finch area. I will update you on that news as it becomes available.
As far as Stockyards goes, I went back on Wednesday. Richard and Junmar were very happy to see me. Rick gave me some boxing instruction. He was kind of surprised that I have kind of "forgotten" my basic boxing skills. I had to remind Rick of all of the previous coaches I have had. I'm confused damn it!
Rick said "Yeah, I understand, you went through all that, and then went to Kingsway---" He did not finish that sentence, but I will finish it for him, ---they completely fucked me up...!
Looks like things are getting dramatic again. Why, why, why...me?
I just want to be a boxer, damn it!


Paul "The Brick" Brec

"Weighting" the Gyms, Which Is the Best ?

Things have been a bit slow on the boxing front. Stockyards has just re-opened, and I have been doing some regular training at Bloor.
I sometimes get people asking me about finding a place to train, and how to find a good boxing gym.
I would like to take this opportunity to talk about boxing gyms, and gyms in general. I have tried a few in the Toronto area, and would like to present this "Consumer Report On Toronto Gyms".
Some of these are boxing gyms, some are regular gyms but have boxing facilities. Ratings will be out of 10. Only gyms that I have attended will be rated.
None of the gyms rated received a 10 / 10, but a couple came close.
Without further interruption, here it is:

Goodlife Fitness, fitness center with boxing equipment at some locations.  RATING:  3 / 10
A very "typical" chain fitness center. Impersonal and a bit on the expensive side. In addition to the high monthly fees, they always try to sell you personal training, which nobody really needs. Personal training for six months costs about $5000, and they seem to think it is no big deal. Oh, $5000, just like that. Yeah, I have that right here in my wallet.
They were also very reluctant to cancel membership after the contract period. They kept billing me for a month after, and then claimed to have not received the cancellation request. They also did not refund me for the month they were supposed to have cancelled.
OVERALL: NOT RECOMMENDED

Premier Fitness, fitness center with boxing equipment at some locations. RATING: 4 / 10
Very similar to Goodlife, except that I did not have so many problems with cancelling the membership
They also want to sell you a rediculously-priced personal training packages. Also, the boxing facilities cost extra, which they don't tell you up-front.
Update: Premier Fitness went bankrupt, and most locations have closed, while other locations were taken over by other companies.
OVERALL: NOW CLOSED

Extreme Couture, MMA gym with boxing. RATING: 6 / 10
I took a couple of trial classes here. I have to say it is nothing special. There is not really anything bad about it. It is a fine-quality gym, just don't get suckered into the "Couture" name. Although this gym offers boxing, they are not certified for competition. They offer classes and recreational boxing only.
OVERALL: NOTHING SPECIAL

Kingsway Boxing Club, Competition boxing club with fitness facilities with two locations. RATING: 0 / 10
I have to say this is the absolute worst boxing facility I have ever set foot in. In the eight months I was there none of the "coaches" were able to deliver what they promised. They put up a nice fake front, and pretend to care, but when you want to question them about something, they get upset. Also, the training is very negative.When you don't learn as fast as they want, or don't understand something, the "coaches" would reply with a sarcastic response. Also, the fees are very high for what they have to offer. The most expensive boxing gym in Toronto. It is clear they care only about money, and not about the quality of coaching.
OVERALL: STAY AWAY, FAR AWAY! 

Lansdowne Boxing Gym, Competition boxing club. Now defunct. RATING: 7 / 10
This was a good gym, but has since closed.
OVERALL: IT IS CLOSED, GOOD LUCK

Bloor Street Fitness,  (UPDATED) Fitness center with boxing facilities and a ring. RATING: 5 / 10
I have to say this is one of the better fitness centers in Toronto.  There is 24/7 key-card access. I also like how they often encourage feedback from the members, and will usually try what is suggested. The boxing facility was dying, and I suggested they revive it. They did. They now even offer supervised soft sparring classes. The only negative thing is some of the other members are not the greatest people in the world to exercise with. This seems to be a big problem at this location. It is not the fault of management, but it can in some cases reduce the enjoyment of the facilities. However, the great staff and the rest of the members outbalance the idiots.
OVERALL: NOT RECOMMENDED See new review here:  NEW REVIEW

Stockyards Boxing Gym, (UPDATED) Competition boxing facility. RATING: 9 / 10
This facility is also called Stockyards Boxing and Fitness, but they specialize in boxing.  The coach is a former professional boxer whose opponents list includes Hector "Macho" Camacho. The facility here is new, and the coaching is great. You can tell that the coaches and trainers really enjoy teaching. They are patient and understanding, and if you show your seriousness about the sport, they will do their best to help you. The only thing that keeps this gym from getting a "10", is the lack of a shower facility. I don't know how they overlooked this. You sweat...you shower...it is a very simple concept. I have a work-around. I bring my own. It is amazing what a spray bottle can do. Anyway, if they install a shower, this gym would be a perfect "10".
OVERALL: RECOMMENDED See new review here:  NEW REVIEW

That is all for now.  If you are interested in further information about any of these gyms, let me know.

Paul "The Brick" Brec

Another Sparring Class at Bloor, This One Hurt!

Another Thursday has gone by, and thus, another evening of "soft" sparring.
I think guys need to learn the meaning of *soft* sparring. That is "soft", 'light", "don't hit as hard as you normally would" sparring.
I wouldn't mind so much, except that because this is supposed to be S..O..F..T sparring, we are not wearing full protective gear.
In addition to the guys who normally attend, there was a "new" guy. Well, not new to boxing, but new to Bloor Gym. He had just moved here from Vancouver. That in itself brings up two questions: Why would anyone want to move from Vancouver to Toronto?, and, I didn't know they had any boxing in Vancouver. I thought all they did there was smoke joints?
Anyway, his name is Luke. Easy to remember. I just have to go into Nerd Mode and think of Luke Skywalker.
This Luke guy, I have to say is a pretty damn good boxer for someone who has only been in it for a few months. I though I was a pretty good boxer, but Luke taught me otherwise. Its amazing how when you think you are good at a sport and then someone else comes along and hands your ass to you on a silver platter.
The Force is strong with Luke when he is in the ring. I was just basic target practice for him. He nailed me so many times, and really hard too! I really like how the instructor was yelling instructions to me from ringside. "Go, Paul. Go after him. He isn't going to hurt you. This is just practice!" Yeah, right. You are outside the ropes, where it is safe. Would you like to come in here and try this?
Luke got me good above the eye. There is a bump there now, and is hurting. My nose is a bit sore too. Oh, well, sometimes those things happen in sports. It looks like I actually did something. Sometime I feel that people don't believe me when I tell them I am a boxer, because I never "look" it. Well, now I do. Happy?
Going forward, I think I am going to start wearing my sparring gear for "Soft Sparring Night".
At the same session, there was another guy who attends regularly. I'm sorry, I have forgotten his name. Anyway, I was able to get him against the ropes. I could not believe he let me score 18 points on him! He did not try to pivot out, defend or anything. I am not exactly sure what happened, but I was nice and eventually let him out. However, if that had been a "for real" match, there would have been no way I would have let him go. 
Well, that is all for this week's sparring report.
I will be back at Stockyards on Tuesday. I am in the process of creating my fall boxing schedule.I was waiting for Stockyards to re-open, so I can decide how to spit my training. Stockyards has the huge advantage of having a good coach, but they do not have showers. However, Bloor has showers and sparring classes, but is not certified for competition boxing. 
Coach Rick is my official coach, so the best thing to do will be to discuss it with him. I will get his advice on this, and see how often he thinks I should train with him, and the rest of the time go to Bloor.
Richard is cool about things like that, I'm sure we will be able to come to a comfortable compromise.
Once my schedule is confirmed, I will post it here.
Also, don't forget about "Fight Night 2" at Stockyards Boxing Gym, starting at 7:30 PM on October 21. I hope to see you there.

Paul "The Brick" Brec

"So You Think You Can Box?"

I am waiting very patiently for Stockyards to re-open. Five days. In the meantime, I am still training at Bloor Street Fitness. There has been a lot a sparring going on at Bloor. For a place that is not supposed to be offering sparring, they are having it about every two days. There is no sparring at Stockyards, and until there is, I will do my sparring at Bloor.
Speaking of sparring, there is this one really big guy who likes sparring. The problem is, big guys do not seem to understand the concept of ""soft"" sparring. It is like trying to tap lightly with a sledgehammer. Really, this guy hits hard. Although, he thinks he is soft sparring. I would really hate to get hit by him if we were hard sparring. Yikes!
Another thing that I am doing now, is swimming. In addition to my regular training, I am using the pool in my building three times a week. Swimming is good for boxers. Speaking of, there was a guy in the pool last night, doing some funky boxing moves. Yeah, right. I said aloud, "Pretending to be a boxer?" He ignored me and continued to splash around like an idiot. Seriously, he was splashing the ceiling! Then he had this ball, and for some reason he was whipping it around the pool, and bouncing it off the edges. Yeah, we get it, you are a real man. Thank you for letting us know. Now, how about cooling it a bit so other people can enjoy the pool?  Idiot.
I feel like I could start a new reality show, "So You Think You Can Box?"
I would also like to note that Stockyards will be hosting another boxing event on Friday, October 21. The first bout is scheduled to start at 7:30 PM. Please contact the club after October 3 for more info.
I will be video recoding all of the matches, and DVD and Blu-ray copies will be available. However, I will not be able to post all of them to the Internet. Please contact the club or myself for info on getting hard media copies of any of the bouts.
D-I-T-O Productions is a non-profit organization, and we supply copies of the boxing to the involved boxers and clubs at cost (duplication costs and cost of media). $4 for a standard-definition DVD, and $9 for a high-definition Blu-ray. You can have as many of the bouts as you want. If what you want can fit on one disc, you pay for only one disc. Contact me for more info.

Paul "The Brick" Brec

Stockyards Boxing Gym

Stockyards Is Closed, More Sparring At Bloor

Well, since Stockyards is closed until the end of the month, it means more training at Bloor.
At least the coach at Stockyards does not think he owns me, like at that other boxing club. Kingsway expected me to train exclusively with them, and I was actually told that I could not train anywhere else. Well, excuse me, if I want to train at two different gyms, that is my right.
Coach Richard made it very clear that as long as I am training, he does not care where I do it. That is a great attitude. He trusts that his boxers are going to train, and do not need to be baby-sat. I appreciate that very much.
Last Saturday, there was live boxing hosted by Stockyards, and unfortunately, our boxers did not win. However, yesterday in Kitchener, one of our boxers won against a boxer from Kingsway. Yeah, that is very funny. A boxer from a brand new club kicked some Kingsway butt! Once again, Paul is proven right about the crappy Kingsway coaching.
Anyway, enough complaining about Kingsway, moving on to Bloor.
Bloor now has a sparring class! Yeah. Thursdays at 8:30 PM, they have soft sparring supervised by an experienced boxer. Although Bloor is not certified by Boxing Ontario, I am told that they are "not supposed" to conduct sparring classes. In my opinion, if Bloor wants to conduct sparring, let them. Everyone keeps telling me. "Boor is not sanctioned for sparring. What if something happens? You are not insured..." Blah, blah, blah." First of all, whether they are certified or not is really not my problem. Secondly, sports injuries are covered by the Ontario Health Plan. Therefore, I really don't understand the need for "insurance" from Boxing Ontario, except that it is a way for Boxing Ontario to make money. There are advantages to being certified, which I hope Bloor will eventually do. For now, the Thursday sparring is fine.
In addition, I am still training as best I can, as per Richard's training regiment. Except, I had the flu last week, and didn't do as much as I should. However, I toughed it out, and still did some training. I am trying to prove to Coach Richard that I have what it takes to be a boxer again. I want on his team, damnit. If I have to kill my self to do it, I will! I will be the world's first dead boxer. Hmmmm, that opens up a whole new world of nicknames.
Seriously, with all sports, you are still expected to train even if you are sick. After all, exercise is the best medicine.
This past Thursday at Bloor, I was sparring mostly new guys. I don't like it, because I don't learn much, but I look at it as I am helping them learn.
One guy for some reason, would only hit me in the shoulders, and another elbowed me in the arm. I am still sore there. What the hell was he doing? He swung his arms down to defend a body attack, and got me on the arm as I was punching. That is actually a foul. He would have been called for that if there had been a referee present.
Anyway, I don't know what is happening at Stockyards until they re-open. Richard did want me to get my Boxing Ontario certification in October. He also wanted to start some sparring classes. He wants to get more guys in before he can start that. So, come on guys, join Stockyards. I need some more beginners to beat up. Just don't elbow me!

Paul "The Brick" Brec

To Shower, Or Not To Shower?? That Is The Question

Things were looking quite well at Stockyards at the beginning, but now things are beginning to stall. This is in no way Richard's fault. I feel bad, because Richard Souce and Junmar Emon are both really good friends of mine, and are great teachers. I like training at Stockyards, but there are some underlying issues that are frustrating me, and may also be annoying other members as well.
We have to keep in mind that Richard's Landlord is the City of Toronto. That should tell you something right there. I have never trusted the City.  In my opinion, City Hall is a building full of idiots.
Do any of you remember the story about when I first started my production company, D-I-T-O Productions? Let me fill you in, quickly. I was working on an experimental production when I was just going around and video recording different parts of the city. I decided to put it together as a "Toronto Tourism" video. Just for the heck of it. Well, the Toronto Tourism office somehow found out about it, and sent me a letter telling me that I was not allowed to produce a Toronto Tourism video, because it was their job. Seriously.
Ever since then, I keep my interaction with City Hall to a bare minimum, if any.
Well, this week we were informed that Stockyards Boxing will be closed until October 3, because the City promised to let Elections Ontario use our room for advanced polls. They seemed to have "forgot" to inform Richard of this ahead of time. Forgot? That is kind of a major oversight isn't it? I mean, an election is not exactly something you forget. Especially, since the candidates keep reminding us.
This is exactly something I would expect from the City.  We need to build a giant Dunce Cap and put it on the roof of City Hall.
Also, they kind of lied to me about being able to use the showers. Everybody has their "thing". Well, my "thing" is cleanliness. If I had the time, I would shower 25 times a day. I especially like to shower after exercising.
When I first joined Stockyards, I was told that I could use the showers in the change rooms or the Referee's Room. Now, when I try to use a shower, the arena staff complain. I had one yesterday actually chase me through the entire building to keep me from using a shower, and he was yelling at me. Seriously? Are you for real? Its just a shower, damnit.  I'm sorry I ruined your day.
Last Saturday, they let Richard use two whole change rooms and shower facilities for the boxers to use during his live boxing show, for over three hours. At the same time, they won't let me use one shower for a couple of minutes. What's wrong with that picture?
Richard wants to put on these shows once a month. Does he really think they are going to cooperate with him every month? I give it one more month, maximum. Really. That is my maximum expectation of the City of Toronto.
Most of you may know that I have a pretty good Bullshit Detector, and it is going off right now.  I have not mentioned it to Richard, because with all due respect, it is really none of my business. His relationship with his Landlord is his business.
My Bullshit Detector is not always right, and I hope that is the case here. I would really hate to see something happen to Richard and his new business. However, feel that Richard is about to turn onto Bullshit Boulevard, and it is a one-way street with no exit.

Paul "The Brick" Brec

Stockyards Boxing Gym

Response To Report On Boxing As A Violent Sport

The issue of violence in sports seems to be surfacing again. This seems to happen about once every couple of years. As always, boxing is at the top of the list of "violent sports". Oh, goody.
Here are a few questions:
What determines a "violent" sport?
What separates boxing from every other martial art, and hockey, and football, and rugby?
MMA was illegal in the province of Ontario until just this year for that very reason.
Let's first look at the object of boxing. The object of boxing is to score points by striking your opponent in designated target areas while wearing appropriate protective gear, after months of specialized training, while avoiding getting hit yourself.
Hmmmm, OK.
What is the object of MMA? Do whatever you can to disable your opponent, using whatever means possible, while wearing little or no protective gear.
Hmmmm, OK.
What is the object of hockey? Put the puck in the net, right? Where in the rules does it say anything about fighting, and hard body-checking?
Hmmmm...
What about football and rugby? Guys smash the crap out of each other in order to take control of a ball.
Hmmmm...
Right, so boxing is violent.
I have been involved with boxing in many different forms. I have been in the ring, I have taught it, photographed it, I have seen it all. In all the years I have been involved with the sport, I have never experienced a serious injury.
As a matter-of-fact, statistics show boxing to be the safest of all contact sports.
I wish these people who complained about these sports would actually come out to see what it is all about, instead of standing on the sidelines shooting off the mouth.
Do you have any idea what boxing coaches do to protect their athletes? Why do you think boxers are in such good shape? Every part of a boxer's training is to protect him from injury. Not just from getting hit, but because boxing involves such a lot of physical activity in such a short amount of time, other injuries can occur also.
It is just a sport. Boxers don't go around and punch everything that walks. Of course, we will defend ourselves if needed, like anyone else. However, we are not mean, tough guys. OK, maybe you have to be tough to withstand this sport, but that is all part of it. That is what makes this great sport so unique. You have to be a special person to want to be a boxer.
Enough of this talk about violence in sports. Sports are a way to relieve stress, and anyone involved in such sports are well aware of what is going on, and are properly trained to handle it.
Now shut the *F* up before I knock you out!

My two cents.

Paul "The Brick" Brec
Boxer, Stockyards Boxing Club

Junmar's Class Yesterday, Pain Today !

Well, yesterday was the official opening on the new Stockyards Boxing and Fitness. Junmar Emon held his first conditioning class, which I attended. Oh, yes. Junmar's famous conditioning classes. I remember those. I used to call them Junmar's Kill Paul classes. That hasn't changed.
What I found truly amazing, Richard pulled me out of Junmar's class to work with me in the ring!
He did padwork with me, which is something Kingsway never did. Richard is also a very positive coach. He encourages people to excel at the sport. I found the "coaches" at Kingsway to be rather negative. If you make a mistake there, you were greeted with a sarcastic comment. Its no surprise the Kingway boxing team is not doing well. How can someone learn in such a negative environment?
Sorry, I hate to be complaining about Kingsway so much, but I want don't want to see other people fall into that same crap.
I am paying less than what I payed at Kingsway, and all classes are included. What is great is that after class, Richard took me aside and told me everything that was expected of me, if I want to compete.
He wants me to be able to keep up with Junmar's class. Right now, there is a bit of a struggle with that. Also, he wants me to do:  75 push-ups a day, 75 squats a day, and 200 sit-ups a day. He also wants me to run the track across the street from my apartment three times a week. 
From what I am getting, it appears that Kingsway was only concerned about the money, and did not really care about the quality of coaching. I was very impressed that Richard Souce took time out to train me. Now that is a coach! It is clear that he enjoys coaching, and is not blinded by the almighty dollar sign. Not that a good coach does not deserve to be payed, but you don't rip off people.

"Bag Bay" at Stockyards Boxing and Fitness

Oh, and I found the showers. They are located in the change rooms that the hockey players use. It was kind of funny, here I am in my boxing gear walking into a room full of hockey players. "Oh, hi there. I'm just coming in to take a shower..." [Hee hee hee]
The showers were very cold. I could not figure out how to get hot water in there. Then again there probably is no hot water. This is a City of Toronto owned building. Yeah, the best thing after extreme exercise is a nice ice cold shower. Why not?
Anyway, in addition to the daily training Richard wants me to do, I will be going to Stockyards at least three times a week. He also wants me to do my own training in-between. This is it. I hope he understand that just because I am not going to HIS gym, does not mean I am not training. I also have a membership at Bloor Street Fitness, and I would still like to take advantage of that. This was something else about Kingsway, they were always complaining that I was only going three times a week. Well, yeah, but I was also going to Bloor. They knew that. I am not six years old. I don't need my hand held all the time. Richard told me what he wants me to do, which is more than Kingway ever did. I will train as Richard suggests, but it just may not always be at Stockyards. Some of the stuff I can even do at home.
To conclude today's entry, I was very happy with the staff at Stockyards. I recommend anyone who wants to pursue boxing for fitness or competition, drop by  215 Ryding Avenue. Near St. Clair and Runnymede. Take the 71 or 79 bus from Runnymede station. Visit the website below for more info.

Paul "The Brick" Brec

Stockyards Boxing and Fitness

A New Boxing Gym, Deja-Vu

The Stockyards Boxing and Fitness opens today! With head coach Richard Souce at the wheel.

This past Saturday, Richard allowed me to drop in for a preview look at his new facility.

It was not quite finished, but I did get a good idea of what he was trying to achieve.  

Also, while I was there, he asked me to help him setup the ring. Oh, I knew there was a catch! That is quite all right. I don't at all mind helping.

Stockyards Boxing in the George Bell Arena

Junmar was also there, and we began talking about Stockyards Boxing and what I wanted to achieve as a member.

Richard asked me if I was interested in competing. I said "Yes". Then he asked me my age and weight. I lied about my age first, as a joke. I told him what he wanted to know. He said there was absolutely no problem with that, but I would have to get registered with Boxing Ontario. Wow, just like that? You mean he is not going to ask me to shell-out 200-and whatever something dollars to attend some stupid "Fight Camp"? Yeah, amazing isn't it?

However, I am going to suggest that to him. Hopefully, he will not get upset an throw a tantrum. How dare someone make a constructive suggestion. Anyway, I am going to suggest the same idea. Obviously, we will not be able to call it "Fight Camp", but how about this: "Boxing Bootcamp"? Huh? Pretty good? 

The ring at the new Stockyards Boxing

I have a different "feeling" about this place. I never felt comfortable at Kingway, because I had a feeling something odd was going on. It turned out that I was right. Stockyards feels different. I can't explain it. Is this a sign that I can trust this place? I do not know, yet. However, I will give it a try.

The only thing is, I did not see any showers. Personally, I think that is gross. However, I was told that they have access to the entire arena building. That means there has to be a shower room someplace!

Oh, and Junmar told me that the upper deck of the rink goes all the way around, so that means lots and  lots of running! Oh, great, running, my favorite. Can I not just stick my head into a lion's mouth?

Stockyards opens today, so drop by and have a look. Meet Junmar and maybe even Richard.  They are located in the George Bell arena. Behind the Metro store off of St. Clair Avenue West, or take the 71 Runnymede bus north from Runnymede station. The arena address is 215 Ryding Avenue. The club is on the east side of the building.

Also on September 17, Stockyards will be having their first live boxing event. Please come by an show your support for this new club. As of now, my video production company D-I-T-O Productions, will be video recording the bouts, so any boxers involved will be able to see their matches on YouTube, and request DVD copies.

Paul "The Brick" Brec

Stockyards Boxing and Fitness

I *Still* Just Want To Be A Boxer...Why Is This *Still* So Difficult, Damnit?!

OK, so the pain in the ass is getting worse. I think this is something that a simple Tylenol can not fix.
As much as I like and want to train with Richard at his new facility, I may not be able to.
He has posted his schedule for competitive boxing, and his training is Monday to Friday at 5 PM. OK, that's great. I'll just take time off work so I can train for an amateur sport.  I was looking around at some other boxing clubs, and they all seem to have a similar schedule. I don't know why boxing coaches have such wacko schedules? With every other sport, when do they train? Evenings and weekends. Why? Because people WORK.
I contacted Richard about his schedule, and he was very nice about it. He said that he was flexible with the schedule, and would have to see what will happen as he gets going. That is understandable as he is just starting his new business.
However, I was told the exact same thing at Kingsway, and they bitched every time I made a suggestion. Sometimes telling me, "You agreed to our schedule when you signed up with us, so we don't have to change anything".
So, forgive me if I am not going to jump on this. I might join Stockyards on a month-by-month basis right now. I would like to put the feelers out to see where this is going. Richard is not new to coaching boxing, but he is new to having his own business. I hope he understands the "rules" of operating a business. For example, customers are going to give feedback (complain), they are going to provide suggestions (complain). Big deal. That is what customers do. You can't take it personal, throw a tantrum and cancel service. I work for a major communications company, and do you have any idea how many people complain about their cell service? If we cancelled an account every time someone complained, we would not have any customers left.
Anyway, if I do decide to join Stockyards, I will not be overly-concerned about competition right now, anyway. If Richard wants me to join his team, I'd be happy to do so. However, right now I'd be happy just doing recreational boxing /open sparring just for the exercise.
Richard noted that he has never seen me spar, so he has no idea of my boxing abilities. Well, here is his chance. I would be more than happy to show him my abilities. All I ask, is for what I keep asking, keep me informed and don't pretend to care.
An update to my case against Kingsway: I have spoken with a lawyer and was informed that they are required to refund me for any unused services. They did, even though they called it a 'courtesy'. In addition to that, as they were misleading and did not provided the expected services, I can also try for a partial refund of what I have paid towards the monthly fees. I will be doing that. I am also going all out to expose the truth about Kingsway Boxing Club, and the behind-the-scenes stunts they pull. Seriously people, don't ever consider Kingsway.  Even their so-called "Fight Camp" is misleading. They advertise, "Take our Fight Camp and get your Amateur Boxing License," and a bunch of other things. Well, first of all, there is no such thing as an "Amateur Boxing License". You get certified through Boxing Ontario by sending in a form with $57...and voila, you are certified. You don't need a "Fight Camp". Secondly, I took "Fight Camp", and I don't have my "Amateur Boxing License"....because I have not yet sent the form!
Despite what you may hear, Kingsway Boxing is no where near what they are representing. Come to Stockyards instead.
Stockyards is not yet open, but you can drop in this week to have a look around and pre-register. Visit their website or Facebook for more info.

For information on Stockyards Boxing:
Stockyards Boxing and Fitness

Paul "Still Pissed Off" Brec