If you thought boxing was a sport best left to the pros, think again. With the rise of boutique fitness and memberships like ClassPass and FitReserve, boxing is moving from the underground gym scene and into popular studios everywhere. Plus, training like a Million Dollar Baby is a killer workout for cardio endurance, strength, power, and agility. You don’t even need to fight anyone to reap the benefits (whew!). But before you slip on a pair of gloves, start with some hand wraps.

Wrapping your hands provides extra padding around your knuckles and some support for your wrists, so you can throw every punch with confidence. Most boxing gyms and studios will provide gloves but not wraps, so it’s best to buy your own before heading to your first training session or class. We like Everlast Hand Wraps ($6.99, everlast.com). After sweaty sessions, just toss them in the washer with your laundry and hang dry. Check out the video below to learn the proper technique for wrapping, demonstrated by Tatiana Firpo, group fitness manager and trainer at Gotham Gym in New York City.

To recap:
1. Spread fingers.
2. Place thumb through loop.
3. Wrap over top of hand and 3 times around wrist.
4. Wrap knuckles 3 times.
5. Then bring wrap under thumb and thread between each finger.
6. Wrap once around wrist to secure finger straps then once around thumb.
7. Wrap knucles 3 more times and then again around wrist.
8. Velcro to secure.

Video: Jenna Haufler