Boxing For Men's Mental Health.
Some things are easier to say side by side than face to face. Our boxing-based sessions give people a reason to turn up, something physical to do with how they're feeling, and a group of people who get it.
Space To Move, Talk And Connect.
Boxing asks for your full attention. Rhythm, breathing, footwork, the sound of the pads — for the length of a round, there isn't much room left over for everything else. What keeps people coming back is the routine, the small weekly wins, and the fact that somebody notices when they're not there.
Sessions are led by Luis Palmer, an HCPC-registered Occupational Therapist, former professional boxer and England Boxing qualified coach. Everything is occupational therapy informed and shaped by the Model of Human Occupation — but this is wellbeing support, not treatment.
What A Session Looks Like.
Warm up together
A straightforward start — moving, loosening off, and settling into the room.
Pads and bags
Non-contact boxing work at your own pace. Nobody gets hit, and nobody has to spar.
Strength and conditioning
Simple, scalable work that builds physical confidence week by week.
Time to talk
Space at the end to check in. Talk if you want to, listen if you don't.
Who it's for: men who'd never book a talking therapy but will show up to a gym, people rebuilding routine after illness, injury or a difficult stretch, and anyone who wants to move, get stronger and be around others without being asked to perform.
Common Questions.
Do I need boxing experience?
No. You don't need any boxing experience, and you don't need to be fit to start. Sessions are non-contact and go at your pace.
Do I have to talk about how I'm feeling?
Only if you want to. There's time to check in at the end of each session — talk if you want to, listen if you don't.
Is this a replacement for counselling or my GP?
No. This is wellbeing support, not treatment. We sit alongside your GP, counsellor or other services and are happy to work with anyone already supporting you. If you're in crisis, call 999 or Samaritans on 116 123.
Where are sessions held?
At TFC The Fitness Club in Sheffield city centre and Riley's Boxing & Fitness Gym in Hillsborough.
How do I get started?
Use the contact form or email info@offthecanvasboxing.com and we'll arrange a short chat.