Summer 2025 Newsletter: Zen & Boxing

Oakland Zen + Boxing Intensive

by Christine Cordero Sensei and Raúl Betancourt Sensei

In July, we offered an introduction to Zen & Boxing at the Gopa Boxing Gym in Oakland, California. More than 30 people attended, including teenagers and long-time Zen practitioners. Participants were introduced to zazen, as well as the foundational elements of world champion Michele Aboro’s boxing training curriculum. The event finished up with a talk story session with Michele and Chozen-ji priest Christine Cordero addressing Michele’s impressive career, how to get started training, and why meditation and boxing are good compliments. We are looking to do a follow-up event in Oakland in 2025.

Zen & Boxing Intensive

By Carl He Sensei

In anticipation of the Boxing Sesshin with Michele Aboro in October 2025, Chozen-ji offered an intensive training week in July for serious boxing students. The mission was to sharpen the mind and harden the body for the expected onslaught (of Boxing Sesshin).

From Monday to Friday, zazen and physical training was held mornings and evenings. A total of 14 students participated over the week. The physical training consisted of two alternating components. First, boxing training focusing on footwork, punching technique and combinations; 

Second, strength and conditioning training focusing on explosive power, kinetic chain, hara connection and cardiovascular fitness. Knees over toes joint bullet-proofing exercises were incorporated to prevent injury.

At the end of the week, the students put everything together and displayed their understanding of boxing Zen in controlled sparring.

The result of the training was satisfactory. All students saw noticeable improvements in skill, conditioning and mental fortitude; and all reached a higher readiness for the upcoming Boxing Sesshin. Seeing the benefits of the intensive training week, more are expected to be held in 2026.