Boxing as a sport is enjoying a resurgence in the United States (probably thanks in part to the popularity of fight shows on Cable TV). Even though there aren't a lot of opportunities for making money as a boxer, there are plenty of chances for you to get involved in amateur boxing. How do you get started?v First, you need to go to http://www.amateurboxing.com. This is the official site of the USA Boxing League's amateur division, and gives a thorough list of boxing clubs. You should also work primarily on getting a trainer. Usually it's his responsibility to schedule fights for you.

Of course, it's important that you acquire the necessary boxing supplies. Most of these can be bought at a local martial arts store. For training, you'll want to buy the following:

* Jump rope. One of the main things you'll have to develop is stamina and endurance. The reason you always see the boxer jumping rope in all of those boxing movies is because it works. It helps develop your lungs and trains you to endure--even when you feel like just sitting down and quitting.

* Punching bag and large training bag. The former is to help your quickness, the latter to improve the power of your punches.

* An exercise mat will make it a lot easier to do the push-ups and sit-ups that are so necessary for your workout sessions.

* Training gloves work better than real gloves when you're just sparring.

* Chest vest. This is to protect you during sparring so you don't get injured before the real fight begins.

* Other sparring gear. You can also get a shield to protect your chest, shin pads, even an actual boxing ring, if your budget (and space) allows it.

Besides your training supplies, you'll need gear for the real event. This means * Boxing shorts. Traditionally, these are done in a color and style that will represent you and your personality throughout your career (Not that you will keep the same pair for your whole career, but they usually always reflect you are trying to be as a boxer).

* Shoes. Yes, there are shoes specifically designed for boxers, to give them the comfort, speed and agility they need during a fight.

* A mouth guard is needed whether you're fighting at the amateur or pro level. Nobody wants to lose his teeth in a fight!

* Head Gear. While in professional boxing, the head goes largely unprotected, that's not the case in amateur boxing. There is a whole array of gear to protect the head via helmet and face mask, to minimize injury.

There are many other supplies you could buy to help you as a boxer. To decide what's best for you, talk to your trainer, and schedule a time to just browse at your local martial arts store. Talk with the staff there. Finally, talk with other boxers about what helps them. Remember though: At the end of the day, it's not the equipment wear, but the spirit you have inside that determines what kind of boxer you'll be.