Thursday, July 18 2019
You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on September 19th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Liz Abbott-Beaumont has been putting in work at Urban Boxing DC and below you’ll hear about her first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.
We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along?
It was going great! Unfortunately, I fractured my rib in a sparring round two weeks ago so I've been slightly stunted. However, I've been doing what I can to retain the strength until I'm ready to jump in again!
What is your weekly routine?
On average, I do 4-5 days at the boxing gym depending on when the classes fall, and then I would run 3 times a week. Currently while injured, I'm able to walk long distances, I've been trying to do arm weight exercises, and I can do the sitting bike without further aggravating my rib.
How has your diet changed since training began?
SO MUCH. I downloaded a calorie counting app and it has truly forced me to think about what I put in my body. Because I love food, it's almost like playing a game with myself where I see how much food I can consume within my daily limit in order to hit my target weight.
Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected?
Intense... I thought I knew what I was doing until I took a glove to the face. It's really hard to be prepared for your first experience when your opponent (the bag) hasn't been hitting you back.
What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far?
The rib fracture... definitely the rib fracture.
What does your family think of your participation?
They are of course supportive of the cause, but I think are concerned about overall safety, like a parent would :)
It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story?
There have been several. I've been very surprised and touched by how many people thanked me for doing this and told me the story about how their dad or grandparent or sibling or friend or even themselves were affected. It's been very inspiring and a little overwhelming when you realize just how many people this impacts.
Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training?
I wouldn't say it has changed, but it has definitely widened. I joined this campaign because I wanted to see true change and true impact. Watching everyone's fundraising numbers climb and seeing the excitement this is generating among my friends and coworkers is pretty phenomenal. I can't wait to see where everything is on media day!
Donate to Liz or purchase a ticket to The Beltway Brawl on September 19th here!