Women Who Box – Charise Stanford

A few months ago I was at a children’s birthday party and met a young lady who boxed.  I was so intrigued that I decided to start a “Women Who Box” series on my blog to share the amateur, recreational and professional female athletes in this sport.  I hope you enjoy this series and the first interviewee in this series – Charise Stanford.

These women have amazing stories I am hopeful you will find inspirational.

FFFC:  Please introduce yourself to our readers.

CS:  My name is Charise Stanford.  I am 28 years old.  Health is my passion.  I lost over 70 pounds by hard work and dedication.  I am the happiest I have ever been in my life!  I box, I run marathons, I get medals. I make things happen.  Every day is a chance to get better.  This is my 7^th year living in Atlanta and the heat and hills have given me strength.

FFFC:  How did you get interested in boxing?

CS:  I am the oldest child, when I was younger I used to spar with my dad. Boxing has interested me since youth.

FFFC”  How did you get started in boxing?

CS:  I started boxing February 2013, when I wanted to push myself in a new direction.

FFFC:  Who do you spar with?

CS:  I spar with trainers and other students associated with or visiting my boxing gym.

Boxer Charise Stanford

FFFC:  Have you had an official match and if so, how did it go?

CS:  No, I was training for my first fight earlier this year, but it was canceled.  I have a tryout for the Women’s Football Alliance in 6 weeks.

FFFC:  What do you like most and least about boxing?

CS:  What I love the most about boxing is the point of no return.  When you are sparring or in a fight, you cannot quit because you are tired.  There is no place for laziness or shirking, you must address everything that attacks you instantly AND be prepared to counter.  The adrenaline rush is amazing.  What I like the least about boxing is peeling my handwraps after they have been in the dryer.  I know I could air dry them, but considering what they experience during the week, they deserve those sweet smelling dryer sheets.

FFFC:  What is your training program like?

CS:  My training program consists of a variety of strength, endurance, and speed drills.  I run half marathons quarterly. I have completed 3 13.1 half marathons and 1 20K loop race. I do a lot of distance running in my free time.  Outside of the boxing studio, I lift heavy on legs and stay active on my agility ladder to keep current with footwork.  Also, I have committed more time to stretching after every workout and it definitely helps.

FFFC:  What would you say is the biggest misconception about females in this sport?

CS:  The biggest misconception about females in boxing is that it’s not safe for us.  On the contrary, I think it’s the best thing for us.  Boxing introduces you to rawest part of your instinct.

FFFC:  What do you admire most about your physique?

CS:  If I had to pick part of my physique to admire, it would be my arms. They are very resilient.

FFFC:  What general tips do you have for other women interested in getting started with boxing?

CS:  Other tips for women interested in boxing? My advice is get started now and don’t wait. Tomorrow is not promised. Get it done.

FFFC:  What is your daily diet (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks)?

CS:   I love breakfast; it’s my favorite meal of the day.  It sets the tone.  I focus on protein and carbs in the morning.  I love breakfast quiche, omelettes, etc.  I play a lot with variety.  I eat all day long J  After breakfast, I’ll snack on Greek yogurt with nuts or fruit.  Sometimes, I’ll make fresh fruit or vegetable juices at home and have a liquid lunch or I’ll have another load of protein with veggies.  I enjoy fruit in the afternoon.  I adopted a habit from my mother and I eat a red apple everyday on the way home from work.  Dinners are highly anticipated and usually homemade.  I focus on lean meats, more flavors, less sauce, fresh veggies, and a colorful plate.  I also have a refillable water bottle that stays with me wherever I go.

FFFC:  Do you have any upcoming matches or events?  Tell us all about it.

CS:  Women’s Football Alliance tryouts Oct 2014.  Atlanta Half Marathon, Thanksgiving Day 2014.

FFFC:  How can our readers learn more about the services you have to offer?

CS:  [email protected]  

FFFC:  Where can I our readers find you on the web and read more about what you do?

CS:  Follow my Instagram: @reeseyreez for inspiration, motivation, recipes, and workouts.

If you need to get caught up on the series, don’t fret – they are all here ready for YOU to click and be amazed!!  If you love this series as much as I do, show these women some love & support by reading their articles and leaving an encouraging comment!  Smooches.

Samantha Mellerson

Dara Shen 

Ashley DePaulis