In a recent interview Hollywood’s sweetheart, Jennifer Aniston, let the world in on the secret to her killer body: boxing.
And while she’s not actually training to compete with the professionals for a boxing тιтle—that we know of—Aniston said this type of workout is not only great fitness but also “a great way to get aggression out.” Two birds, one stone. Or workout, as the case may be.
Aniston also revealed which trainer she boxes with, Leyon Azubuike, founder of LA boxing gym, Gloveworx and former sparring partner of WBC heavyweight champion, Bermane Stiverne. We’re guessing after that revelation, the gym, which has two LA locations, Century City and Santa Monica, saw an immediate bump in class sign ups, because who doesn’t want a body like Aniston?
But, short of flying to LA for a training sesh with Azubuike, we thought the next best thing would be to ask Azubuike exactly, in detail, how he gets Aniston and anyone else who hits the ring at his gym into seriously good shape. Speaking from LA, here Azubuike shares his story and training tips with Vogue.
What inspired you to translate your professional boxing skills into helping regular people get fit?
“After my [college football] injury I began coaching privately again, and whether I was training a pro athlete or a first timer, I loved helping people break through their personal battles, obstacles and walls that they may not be able to burst through on their own,” Azubuike says.
Please tell us about your boxing gym Gloveworx.
“Long before Gloveworx was established… I had one vision: to create a culture where both athletes and coaches from diverse backgrounds could enjoy training together. After moving to LA and starting the Azubuike Boxing Academy, I met Nick Henry, a local entrepreneur who came to one of my training sessions. Together, we envisioned a dynamic professional studio filled with top-of-the-line equipment and a full-size ring—so the idea for Gloveworx was born.”
Aside from Jennifer Aniston, which other celebrities train at Gloveworx?
“John Goodman, Nick Carter, Jennifer Garner, Jennifer Love Hewitt, amongst others.”
What are some of the key boxing exercises that help whip your clients into shape?
“We use boxing as the primary modality to get our clients into shape supported by a strong strength and conditioning regime,” Azubuike says. “This consists of high reps with light weights and we’re also very big on resistance bands. Our sessions are about an hour and they consist of three distinct phases: warm up phase, work out phase and a cool down phase.”
Any expansion plans into Australia?
“We are definitely looking to expand overseas. We have two studios now with Westfield—which is a company of Australian origin. I wouldn’t be surprised if you see us over there eventually,” Azubuike says.