Clark, Norman – How to Box

Description

Clark, Norman ‘How to Box’ 1922 1st ed. Red colored cloth. Very worn covers. Good minus condition with one loose illustration page between pages 44 and 45. 60 illustrations overall. 210 pages. Chapters on general thoughts on the game, fundamentals, countering, round arm blows and their defence, sidestepping, infighting, ringcraft, generalship, training, rules & refereeing, etc.

The 1922 first edition hardcover of How to Box by Norman Clark is a 210-page boxing instructional manual published in London by Methuen & Co. Ltd.. It stands out as a highly technical guide from the golden era of British pugilism.

Book Details:
• Author: Norman Clark (an accomplished British amateur fighter, trainer, and senior boxing administrator)
• Publisher: Methuen & Co. Ltd., London
• Publication Year: 1922 (First Edition)
• Format: Hardcover octavo (8vo), originally issued in cloth-covered boards
• Length: 210 pages

Content & Overview:
• Comprehensive Technical Manual: The text addresses boxing in its absolute entirety, exploring not just physical techniques but the psychological components required to excel in the ring. It deals comprehensively with the “body and mind” factors that lead to fighting success.
• Core Topics Covered: The book is broken into practical chapters detailing general thoughts on the sport, strict fundamentals, advanced countering, round-arm blows and their respective defenses, sidestepping, intricate in-fighting, ringcraft, generalship, physical training, and the official rules and refereeing.
• The Traditional Boxing Booth Philosophy: Clark heavily emphasizes learning the “sweet science” through rigorous, practical experience and traditional apprenticeships—drawing inspiration from old-school boxing booths. It features contributions and insights connected to legendary figures of the era like featherweight icon Jim Driscoll.
• Illustrations: The book features approximately 60 photographic illustrations and plates demonstrating authentic stances, punches, guards, and footwork.