Recently, Brian and I were working at the gym early one Friday morning, the only time I can find to go in for some one-on-one training. It had been weeks since I’d been back to training. I can’t remember why now. Probably a sick child or sick father, a looming grant deadline, or a staffing issue at work. On the drive to the gym, I prepared myself for a hard training session. I was certain I would be rusty and awkward.

We started with some simple combos which I completed without any problem. We worked up to some of the more complicated ones which, surprisingly, also went off without much of a hitch! Shouldn’t I have been in a much worse spot than before? How was it that I actually was doing better after my break?

Brian pointed out that sometimes a mental break is actually exactly what our bodies need to improve. It seems counterintuitive, but only if you assume that training is only about physical repetition. Boxing is as much mental sport as a physical one.  Sometimes the brain can become so overloaded it can’t process. A rest, oddly enough, can actually help the combos flow more easily.

If you’re anything like me, you find yourself continually having to walk away from your best intentions. We’re not 20 year olds with a flexible schedule. We have obligations galore and sometimes we simply can not get away to the gym. But I have to keep reminding myself I am not trying to meet the goals of my younger self. I am meeting the goals of my current age. I am perimenopausal, I am caring for both teens and an aging parent; I am a director or a growing organization. Sometimes days are just outside of my control.

And after these breaks that I can’t avoid, it’s easy to tell myself it’s too late.  But that’s not true. We can come back. And not only that, the break may help us improve: you may find yourself throwing punches with more ease than before you left.

I speak openly about boxing as a 40 plus woman because I want other people to see their own potential. AndI have learned over the years that the key to my boxing success is nothing more than simple repetition. Yes, I sometimes take breaks. That is the nature of being 40 plus years old with a mountain of responsibilities. The important part is I always start again. And sometimes I come back better than I left! 

Come join us for boxing at Força Martial Arts & Fitness. Whether you’re just getting started, coming back after time away, or looking for something new, there’s a place for you here. Our classes are designed to meet you where you are and help you build confidence, skill, and consistency, one round at a time.

We offer boxing classes:

• Monday & Wednesday at 6:15 PM

• Friday at 5:30 AM

If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or just out of rhythm, you’re not alone. Just show up. That’s the hardest part—and the most important one. And if you’re a little nervous walking in, look for me. I’ll be there, and I’m always happy to help you get started.

📞 Call or text: (479) 264-2008
📍 Location: 301 Reasoner Lane, Russellville, AR 72802
🌐 Website: www.forcamma.com

Your comeback doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to begin.

About the Author
Meredith Martin-Moates is a dedicated member of the Força community, balancing life as an executive director, mother, caregiver, and athlete. She brings a real-world perspective to training, sharing her journey as a 40+ boxer navigating the challenges of consistency, responsibility, and personal growth. Meredith is passionate about encouraging others, especially those who feel like they’re starting over, to step back in, keep moving, and rediscover their strength.