Why do boxers "lose" their legs?

[Toney616]

I'm really talking about guys like Nunn and Ali. Is it a stamina thing or something else? On the flip side, Martinez is pushing 35 and his legs are "fine".

[Scott9945]

I'm really talking about guys like Nunn and Ali. Is it a stamina thing or something else? On the flip side, Martinez is pushing 35 and his legs are "fine".

People age at different paces. Also different factors (training, wear & tear, etc.) affect that process. Speaking for myself, I felt the spring starting to leave my legs in my early 30's. You really notice it when you play a game like basketball. As for Ali and Nunn, Ali had to deal with a lot of top level fights and a long layoff to take away his legs. Of course his movement was so brilliant early in his career that he had to slow down somewhat. Nunn is probably a case of lack of conditioning and dedication.

[Toney616]

People age at different paces. Also different factors (training, wear & tear, etc.) affect that process. Speaking for myself, I felt the spring starting to leave my legs in my early 30's. You really notice it when you play a game like basketball. As for Ali and Nunn, Ali had to deal with a lot of top level fights and a long layoff to take away his legs. Of course his movement was so brilliant early in his career that he had to slow down somewhat. Nunn is probably a case of lack of conditioning and dedication.

Thanks for this post