Monday, August 5 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. Harrison Slater 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?
Great! I've had some good sparring sessions and some that are more challenging. My conditioning has improved, but unfortunately I'm dealing with a stubborn IT Band Syndrome, which has held me back from running, biking, and jumping rope. Hopefully that heals soon so I can really turn things up a few notches.
What is your weekly routine?
I try to get to the gym 5 times per week, and one or two of those days take 2 classes or stay longer on my own. Once my knee heals, I will incorporate morning runs to complement the training at the gym. I typically take Saturday off, and have a lighter day on Sunday.
How has your diet changed since training began?
Much fewer carbs, fat, salt, and sugar. It's been hard to stay away from pasta, french fries, pizza, bagels, and sandwiches, but I've been doing a fairly good job at being disciplined with it. I've also replaced beer with spiked seltzers and vodka sodas. Lastly, I've been drinking a LOT of water, and taken some supplements to promote strong joints, muscles, and bones (Omega 3s, Turmeric, and Magnesium). I will say, I feel great, but that doesn't change the fact that I miss all my favorite foods.
What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far?
For me it's the time management. If it was up to me, I would spend 4-6 hours per day training. But with work, friends, family, and other commitments, it's typically more like 1.5-2 hours per day. Aside from working to find time to train and prepare myself, it's definitely the diet.
What does your family think of your participation?
They fully support me, but my mom (and both grandmas) are unbelievably nervous. They love what I'm doing and the causes I'm raising money for, but they would much prefer if it was a chess match instead of boxing. That said, after I showed them the teaser video that Gauntlet Films put together for me, they were all in. It's hard to watch that and not get fired up.
Donate to Harrison or purchase a ticket to The Beltway Brawl on September 19th here!