STEP by step is the motto for boxing trio Connor and Vaughn Stamm and Jake May in their approach to this year’s tournaments.
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The 17-year-old Stamm brothers and 14-year-old May, from Pianto Boxing Academy in Kangaroo Flat, have endured some gruelling running sessions in recent weeks to prepare for bouts such as state and possibly national title contests.
In recent weeks, Ant Sutton has played a key role as strength and conditioning coach for the Stamms and May.
Running drills on the Rosalind Park poppet head near the heart of Bendigo have played a big part in building their endurance and fitness.
There are more than 120 steps to climb on the Park’s lookout tower.
The twins and May do so at a fast pace, not once or twice, but several times.
Sprints on the Park pathways are also done.
Fitness and recovery from drills was tested at last weekend’s Australian Institute of Sport training camp.
Connor’s next bout in the 64kg division will be on the weekend of February 4-5 in Adelaide.
Matches for Vaughn, 61kg, and Jake, 46kg, will be organised as the year rolls on.
In their fourth year of boxing, the Stamms said Sutton’s advice and running program were a huge plus.
“We have done running in the past, but nothing like this,” said Vaughn.
The focus is not just racking up the kilometres, but running technique and various ways to build aerobic fitness.
Connor said his fitness and strength had increased in recent weeks.
“A goal is to keep on improving as a boxer, not just in technique, but everything else.”
Jake started boxing two years ago and is working hard to build strength and improve technique.
Gym sessions are four or five times a week, and running is every morning.
“Last weekend’s training at the AIS was a great challenge,” he said of being at the Canberra-based Institute for the first time.
“Competing at this year’s state titles is a goal,” said Jake.
A talented sprinter, Sutton is a past winner of the Sally Conroy Memorial 200m run at the Bendigo International Madison carnival and starred at state championship level.
He said the Stamms and May were always willing to learn.
“They have a great work ethic and competitive spirit.
“Developing their lung capacity and increasing their quickness is important, especially for boxing.”
For the Pianto Boxing Academy it’s all about a united effort to reach their various goals.
