Slap Boxing – The friendly quasi-martial art
Slap boxing is well known within the sport of boxing and, as the name implies, it is a variation of boxing with an open fist to “slap” the opponent. The result is a more attenuated form of fighting with slaps that incite pain but do not cause massive damage compared to clenched fists.
History of Slap Boxing
The exact root of this sport is unknown: the quasi-martial art may have started as early as its ancestor boxing, which was practiced by the Sumerians. However, it is widely believed that it evolved a bit later with the inclusion of boxing gloves in the sport. Slap boxing could be an adaptive form of boxing when players don’t have gloves or protective gear to wear on their hands.
As a result, the slap box is often practiced informally. You will find that it is played in the gym, a garage or practically anywhere where there is enough space available.
Slap Boxing as a sport
Technically not recognized as a “sport,” there is no shortage of boxers who practice these quasi-martial arts. Not really surprising considering how similar it is to boxing. Slap boxers can use the same footwork, attacks, stance, and techniques as sports boxers with just a few adjustments, as slap deliveries are different from straight punches.
Slap boxing is often practiced as part of a sports boxer’s exercise, as well as other martial arts. It can also be played for pleasure and as a way to maintain or lose weight. Since the games are played unofficially, there are no specific rules attached to the activity. In most cases, the rules of engagement vary from one fighting club to another. Dubbed as a “Ghetto Game”, this practice is also an accepted form of “greeting” between boys and can be seen as a way of showing affection between men and boys. In cases like these, the goal is not to win, but to slap and get slapped at least once, showing your opponent how tough you can be. It is often observed that boxers who practice it have better hand-eye coordination and agility with their punches.
When used as a form of self defense, you will find that slap boxing works very well. Like boxing, it teaches the practitioner how to swing, weave, defend, and attack if necessary. Although slapping is considered less destructive than punching, it is still capable of inflicting pain on the opponent, in most cases leaving them stunned for a few seconds.
Slap Boxing in pop culture
Many popular personalities have directly or indirectly admitted their involvement in boxing. In particular, rappers like Eminem, Jay-Z, and Brother Ali have released songs with references to quasi-martial art.
