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If you think you're unfit, you most definitely are, as I found out to my peril earlier this week.

Say what you will about the nature of boxing, but no-one can deny it requires one of the most dedicated levels of fitness in world sport.

After meeting with some of the youngsters at Wells Amateur boxing club, including impressive female boxer Natalie Wright, coaches Clive Gadd and Liam White put me through my paces.

Boxing requires immense levels of fitness

First up a series of Rocky style footwork moves in front of the mirror,
"not bad" Clive comments- "have you done this before?".

A quick session on the punchbag sent my heartbeat unnervingly fast, then we went quickly into a sparing session in the ring with head coach Liam.

A minute in and my body was beginning to tire, “KEEP MOVING KEEP PUNCHING” all the while being screamed in my ear.

Two two-minute rounds later and I was flat on my feet, my legs wobbly and my breathing erratic.

"Right then," Clive says, "lets move onto some circuits".

Natalie spars with female coach Michelle Garland

As my patience with this charade has ended, I reply "You're joking". 

Seven 30 second circuit exercises later and I really am finished.

Word of warning: Boxing is not for the faint-hearted, or the unfit.