More than just boxing.
When I was struggling with my own mental, physical, and emotional health, therapy and boxing provided accessible supportive tools. I saw similarities between them with regards to emotional regulation, mindfulness and reflection. My therapist and boxing coaches took similar approaches - they both went at my pace. They both centered their respective sessions around supporting me in the moment.
In 2020, the gyms closed. I had the opportunity to put together a home gym for my nephew and myself. Therapy and boxing had become equally significant tools for me to take care of myself. I wanted my gym space to reflect the supportive aspects of my boxing and therapy practices.
Back in my converted garage gym, my nephew’s friends started joining our sessions, and then their friends began to join… and then adults started coming by. I realized that there was a need, a gap, for our community, and I had some resources to help meet it. I began considering how my space could be of service to others, to share the things that were helpful for me.
That’s what ToolShed Boxing is.
I wanted to combine tools from therapy and my coach to create a safer, trauma informed program where anyone could come and feel comfortable trying something that might be new and scary. ToolShed is a place for people to come and find the tools they need for whatever they need them for.
It is my intention that ToolShed be a space that is a resource for the community, however they might need a resource. This is a space where it is okay to learn and okay to make mistakes.
-john lopez, ToolShed Boxing Founder
Our Values
Relationship and Community
Accessibility
Inclusivity
Client Centered Training
Trauma Informed Practice
Speaking of… what does that mean?
Centering a trauma informed practice means meeting people where they are. Boxing can be very inaccessible, in part due to the fitness industry and culture at large. There can be judgment based on how hard and fast you can move and what your body might look like which can make the activity less enjoyable. Additionally, the element of hitting and getting hit can be so triggering for people.
I consider trauma-informed boxing to be a form of accessibility. We are cultivating a space where we can have the fun parts of boxing with safety and care.
“We knew at that moment we found a home”
“We knew at that moment we found a home”
“I learned to take breaks and rest and listen to my body”
“I learned to take breaks and rest and listen to my body”
“A safe space to come and learn boxing, build community, with awesome people”
“A safe space to come and learn boxing, build community, with awesome people”
Hear From Our Community
What’s Next for Us?
We have officially outgrown our initial home and are in need of a permanent one. We are running a campaign with the hopes of raising $75,000 to build a gym that can be a space for the community to come and learn in, grow relationships in, and become healthier versions of themselves in.
