Bradford Boxing Academy moves to university's Unique Fitness

Bradford Boxing Academy (BBA), previously known as Bradford Police and College Boxing Academy, is now at Unique Fitness at the University of Bradford.

Offering coaching with Olympic boxing coach Mally McIver, the academy also provides boxing classes for people of all fitness levels which combine shadow-boxing, pad work, skipping and body weight exercises with boxing techniques.

European champion boxer Harris Akbar, Mally McIver and Gemma Richardson, Commonwealth Games silver medallist (Image: Newsquest)

The academy is also supported by Bradford College and the Police Community Clubs of Great Britain.

James Platts, Associate Director of Procurement and Commercial Services at the University of Bradford, said boxing helps to improve discipline and can be vital in helping people to channel their emotions.

“Boxing is more than a sport, it transcends all aspects of life and will help you succeed in any area you wish to pursue,” he said.

Gemma Richardson (Image: Newsquest)

“The trainers that promote and teach the sport are much more than sports coaches, they are counsellors, support figures, friends and role models.

“I know this personally as someone who trained at a boxing gym in my teens. I was struggling with the loss of a close family member and had started to struggle with temperament and my own discipline.

“My experience was a real life lesson, easy to access and good for the mind and body.

“This is why I have been an advocate for bringing the BBA to the university and continuing the great work done in the academy."

Chris Webb, CEO of Bradford College, added: “Boxing provides students with a multitude of benefits from fitness to goal setting, discipline and focus. 

“This new home for the academy is important for its future, and we’re delighted to remain partners so that all our students can take advantage of these facilities and also the expertise of world-class coaches like Mally McIver."

McIver said: “Boxing is big in Bradford, and this community needs this boxing academy. 

“Boxing is my passion. I love coaching boxers and getting them to their full potential as it teaches them all round life skills like respect and confidence, and keeps them healthy.

“I am really pleased with our new home at the University of Bradford. We have been running some boxing fitness classes already and it is great to see them so full - and with so many different people.

“We have people from all walks of life, with all different goals and experience levels using the facility. It’s great to see”