A Year of Boxing Combinations: The Story Behind 365 Days of Virtual Padwork Videos
Introduction: A Project Takes Shape
In December 2023, I embarked on a creative project that quickly took on a life of its own. As a London-based personal trainer and boxing fitness coach, I’m always on the lookout for ways to innovate, especially when it comes to making boxing accessible. What started as a small experiment became a year-long series of virtual padwork videos—a free resource that has unexpectedly gained a global following. This is the story of how the project developed and the niche I discovered along the way.
Redefining Virtual Padwork: Accessible Combinations for a Global Audience
The idea for this series came from a desire to create a meaningful, accessible resource for boxing enthusiasts. I aimed to create content people could save and revisit daily for fresh ideas, inspiration, and a sense of progress. I envisioned the series as a free, dependable resource for boxing combinations, something I would have appreciated when I was younger and looking for guidance.
When exploring the digital boxing space, I noticed that few coaches were using the hashtags #ComboOfTheDay and #VirtualPadwork. While virtual padwork was not new, very few videos existed under the hashtag on Instagram. I saw an opportunity.
Most virtual padwork videos feature instructors calling out punch combinations with busy backgrounds and flashy gear that can distract from core techniques. In contrast, I chose simple black and white pads and a plain background to keep the focus purely on the combinations.
Through experimentation, I refined my approach: each video featured a real-time demonstration of a single boxing combination with visual effects and sound effects, followed by a breakdown with on-screen text in front of the pad—there would be no spoken instruction at all. By eliminating spoken instruction, I aimed to create videos anyone, anywhere, could understand. Each video was also designed to loop seamlessly, allowing viewers to internalise each combination at their own pace and revisit as needed. This approach set my content apart, making it easy to follow, re-watchable, and accessible to a global audience.
A Viral Spark: The Moment the Series Took Off
In January 2024, something unexpected happened—one of my videos went viral on Instagram. The response was immediate and overwhelming. Boxing enthusiasts worldwide connected with the idea of daily, accessible content, and my videos quickly gained traction. Messages of gratitude and diverse feedback poured in, showing how much people valued the resource.
People weren’t just watching passively—they returned each day, eager for new combinations. I noticed other creators adopting elements of my approach, which further strengthened my resolve to complete the project. What began as a small experiment turned into a 365-day commitment to provide fresh, engaging content that people could rely on.
Consistency and Creativity Under Pressure
As the popularity grew, so did the pressure to keep up. The daily structure set an expectation, making each video a vital piece of a larger project. Creating a new video every day was challenging, but the gratitude expressed by viewers worldwide kept me motivated.
I wanted the series to offer something for everyone, from beginners to experienced boxers. The combinations ranged from basic coordination drills to advanced sequences inspired by professional boxers. I experimented with styles like motifs, where combinations repeat with varied endings, and reversals, where combinations are flipped, while drawing from drumming patterns to introduce rhythmic elements that add flow to each combination.
As the series progressed, I made it a goal to improve some aspect of each video. Before recording, I practiced shadowboxing, to feel the rhythm of the movements and to ensure the combination flowed smoothly. I adjusted camera angles, lighting, and even my attire—wearing a black t-shirt for orthodox and grey for southpaw—to stay organized and enhance clarity.
Reaching the End: Lessons in Dedication
Completing the series of 365 videos was anything but straightforward. There were times I had to take breaks and moments when creativity ran dry. The second half of the series saw a shift: I planned specific types of combinations, balancing structure with creativity to keep each video fresh and meaningful.
This project taught me that creating something valuable often begins with boundless creativity but requires strict discipline to reach the end. The journey evolved from initial inspiration to persistent commitment
What’s Next: Expanding the Journey
The #ComboOfTheDay series has been an incredible journey. To mark the conclusion, I created a special 366th video dedicated to Muhammad Ali—a figure who, in many ways, stands outside of time. This final video honours his legacy and serves as a timeless close to the series.
This chapter has closed, but it’s opened doors to new challenges and opportunities. Building on what I’ve learned, I’m exploring a new project focused on longer-form content. My goal is to keep core resources free and accessible while offering in-depth options for those seeking a deeper training journey.
Conclusion: A Gift to the World
To everyone who joined—whether you tried one combination or watched every video—thank you for being part of this experience. What began as an experiment grew into a free resource for boxing enthusiasts everywhere. With 365 videos and countless unique combinations, this series is my gift to the world—a library of inspiration, technique, and dedication for anyone with a passion for boxing. I’m honored to have shared this journey with you, and I hope these videos continue to inspire and empower you in your training, wherever you are.
