How many round boxing? Discover the workings of this sport

Understanding the different types of boxing

Each discipline has its own round rules, adapted for safety and spectacle. So, how many rounds in boxing and why? You will learn why these differences exist and how they influence combat. From professional to amateur boxing, explore the intricacies of each format.

English boxing

There boxingBoxing, also known as noble art, is without doubt the best-known form of boxing in the world. It is practised with padded gloves and focuses exclusively on punching. Fights generally take place in a square ring, surrounded by ropes. Each boxer seeks to score points by striking his opponent with clean, clear punches, while avoiding being hit. The rules of English boxing are strict: hitting below the belt, on the back or behind the head is forbidden, and unsporting behaviour can lead to disqualification.

French boxing (savate)

There French boxing, or savate, is a martial art that has its origins in France at the beginning of the 19th century. Unlike English boxing, boxing combines punches and kicks, making it a very complete and technical discipline. Fighters wear shoes specially designed for the savate and blows are delivered with the feet and fists. The savate is distinguished by its elegance and precision, highlighting technical mastery and tactics.

One of savate's most famous champions is undoubtedly Richard Sylla, multiple world champion. Known for his impeccable technique and ability to anticipate his opponents' moves, Sylla left his mark on the history of savate with his exceptional performances and inimitable style. His influence lives on, inspiring many French boxers around the world.

Other styles of boxing

THE Muay Thai, Or Thai boxingKung fu is a combat sport that originated in Thailand. Often referred to as the art of the eight limbs, it involves the use of fists, elbows, knees and shins. Muay Thai fights are renowned for their intensity and the variety of techniques used. Traditionally, boxers perform a ritual dance called Wai Khru Ram Muay before each fight, paying homage to their trainers and traditions.

THE Kung Fu, although more generally regarded as a martial art, includes several styles that incorporate boxing techniques. Sanda, or Sanshou, is a modern form of free-fighting derived from traditional Kung Fu. It combines striking and throwing techniques, allowing fighters to use punches, kicks and holds. Sanda is often practised in competitions where athletes demonstrate their agility, strength and strategy.

There Burmese boxingLethwei is a traditional Myanmar combat sport. Often referred to as nine-limb boxing, it involves the use of fists, elbows, knees, feet and head. Lethwei is renowned for its brutality and uncompromising approach. Fighting generally takes place without gloves, using only bandages wrapped around the hands, which makes the blows even more dangerous. Lethwei is a true test of stamina and courage for the fighters.

The number of rounds per type of boxing

Professional English boxing

In professional boxing, heavyweight fights are generally the most followed. These clashes usually last 12 rounds of 3 minutes everyone in the men with one minute's rest. This format demands exceptional physical condition and a meticulously planned strategy. The rounds test not only the strength but also the endurance and resilience of the boxers.

For other weight categories, fights vary from 8 has 12 roundsdepending on the importance of the match and the experience of the boxers. World title fights and some major events tend to use a 12-round format, while less high-profile fights may be fought over 8 or 10 rounds.

Professional fights female are generally shorter, ranging from 8 has 10 rounds of 2 minutes each. This difference aims to protect the fighters while maintaining the intensity and excitement of the clashes. The female boxers demonstrate technical skills and strategy just as impressive as their male counterparts.

Amateur English boxing

In amateur boxing, men's fights consist of 3 rounds of 3 minutes. This short format puts the emphasis on technique, speed and aggression. Boxers must score points quickly and avoid taking unnecessary blows, as the time to make a difference is limited.

For the women, amateur fights take place in 4 rounds of 2 minutes. This format aims to offer a balanced and dynamic competition, while guaranteeing the safety of the boxers. The brevity of the rounds encourages rapid exchanges and high intensity from the start of the fight.

French boxing

In French boxing, the fights are composed ofassaults of 3 minutes each, with no predefined limit on the number of rounds. Boxers continue until one fighter is clearly defeated or a referee decides to stop the fight. The notion of "assault" in savate is different because it combines technical, endurance And strategy over a potentially variable duration, making each fight unique.

Savate assault focuses on the technical and the precision rather than brute force. The judges assess the punches according to their sharpness and control. This approach favours a fluid, aesthetic fighting style, highlighting skill and mastery of the art of French boxing.

Thai boxing

Professional Muay Thai fights take place on 5 rounds of 3 minutes. This traditional format allows boxers to showcase the full extent of their technique and stamina. The rounds include not only exchanges of blows but also clinches, making each round intense and strategic.

In amateur competition, Muay Thai fights take place on 4 rounds of 2 minutes. This structure aims to provide an intense but shorter fighting experience, suitable for less experienced boxers. This allows amateurs to develop their skills in a competitive but secure environment.

Why these differences in duration?

Boxer Safety

The safety of boxers is a priority in all disciplines. The different round durations and total number of rounds are designed to minimize the risk of injury serious. Fewer and shorter rounds help to reduce the accumulation of blows and therefore cranial trauma. For example, in amateur English boxing, fights are limited to 3 rounds of 3 minutes for men and 4 rounds of 2 minutes for women, in order to limit the risks associated with repeated impacts.

Regulations and traditions

Each boxing discipline has evolved with its own rules and traditions, influenced by its culture of origin. Muay Thai, for example, with its 5 rounds of 3 minutes, reflects Thai rituals and culture, where fighting is also a traditional spectacle. Savate, with its 3-minute assaults and no fixed limit on the number of rounds, places the emphasis on technique and precision, reflecting the elegance and rigour of French martial arts.

The rules of English boxing have evolved significantly over the decades. In the 1800s, fights could last dozens of rounds, sometimes until a fighter was unable to continue. The introduction of 3-minute rounds by the Marquess of Queensberry rules in 1867 standardised the length of fights, bringing more structure and safety to the sport.

Show and entertainment

The length of the rounds and fights is also designed to maximise the spectacle. Shorter rounds and more condensed bouts keep the pace high, captivating the audience's attention. Muay Thai fights, with their 5 rounds of 3 minutes, are intense and dynamic, offering a continuous and captivating spectacle. The shorter rounds in amateur boxing create a fast-paced, nervous competitive atmosphere, ideal for spectators.

Audience expectations play a crucial role in the structure of fights. Spectators are looking for action, strategy and suspense. In professional boxing, 12-round bouts allow the development of a dramatic narrative in which the boxers have to manage their stamina and tactics over a long period. On the other hand, the shorter, more intense fights in amateur boxing meet the expectations of a public that wants to see fast-paced, dynamic competitions.

Conclusion

Boxing, with its different styles and round formats, is a sport rich in diversity and history. Whether it's English boxing, savate or Muay Thai, each discipline has its own specificities in terms of rounds to ensure the safety and intensity of the fights. Understanding these differences helps you to appreciate each style and choose the one that suits you best.

The variations in the length of the rounds reflect considerations of safety, tradition and spectacle. This helps to protect the boxers while providing a captivating spectacle. Each type of boxing offers a unique experience, suited to different tastes and levels of endurance.

Develop your boxing skills at the Circle

Want to energize your sports training? Come take part in our 50-minute sessions at the Circle. We combine the power of boxing with targeted fitness exercises, in a warm atmosphere with unique light shows and a motivating playlist.

Our sessions are accessible to all thanks to the use of water bags instead of traditional opponents.

Each program includes 10 rounds alternating bootcamp and boxing. You'll strengthen your abs, legs, glutes and upper body with dumbbells, while perfecting your combinations and dodges for intense cardio.

Improve your endurance with our energetic coaches in an electrifying atmosphere. Put on your gloves and join us in Montmartre, Beaubourg or Bastille for an unforgettable sporting experience! 🔥