Starting boxing after 40
Our oldest beginner was 58. What changes when you start later, and how our coaches adjust the training.
Early mornings around Baner Hill
Running and walking routes near the gym, for members who like to start the day outdoors before a 7 am class.
Baner is lucky to have hills on two sides, and many of our members walk or run before an early class. Here are the routes our coaches use, all within a short ride of the gym.
Baner Hill is the closest. The trail starts from the residential lanes behind Baner Road and climbs about 150 metres to a broad top with views over the city, the Mula river and, on clear mornings, the hills towards Sinhagad. A walk to the top and back takes about 45 minutes; a steady run, 25 to 30. The path is rocky in places, so wear shoes with some grip.
Pashan Lake, on the other side of the link road, has a flat path along part of its edge, good for easy recovery runs. In the winter months it is a good place to see migratory birds early in the morning. For longer runs, members head to the NDA Road and Sus Road stretches, which have quieter shoulders before 6.30 am. Traffic builds quickly after 7.
A few practical points. Go in pairs on the hill trails, especially before sunrise. Carry water, because there is none on the hill. In the monsoon, the hill paths become slippery and some sections wash out, so most members switch to road routes. If you run before class, come in with ten minutes to spare to cool down and drink something before the warm-up begins.
