Mao Mao is a pioneer of boxing in China. Women who put on the boxing gloves in their club in Shanghai are not just aiming for a punching bag – they are also fighting against the pressure of society’s expectations.
“Strike,” calls the trainer to the young woman. But she hesitates until the trainer gives her a tick. Only then does she strike back. More than 100 women train at the Princess Boxing Club in the heart of Shanghai, just a few hundred meters away from the People’s Square and the seat of government in the metropolis of 26 million people. You practice your hitting technique here. But also her self-confidence.
Boxing is becoming increasingly popular among women in China. In recent years, large fitness centers have increased their offerings, and more and more influencers are advertising the sport on the social media platforms Weibo and Xiaohongshu. Where does the desire to kick things come from?