Haymakers is offering a specialized (non-contact) version of the four month Haymakers training journey, designed specifically for those individuals who have been directly affected by cancer. With a focus on physical, mental, and social health, Fight Continued empowers survivors to experience the benefits of boxing without the contact typically associated with the sport. From increasing energy levels to improving mental clarity, participants will work through a comprehensive fitness routine in a safe, supportive environment.
Boston native Kelley Bernard, who will be part of the 2024 Belles of the Brawl credits Fight Continued with changing her life. “It is for EVERYONE! And it is so easy to do what you can without fear of judgment,” Kelley shares.
Program Benefits:
This program was successfully piloted with participants recruited through a partnership with Mass General Hospital and January 2025 will begin our 3rd round of this program.
Program Requirements:
Program Details:
At Haymakers for Hope, we believe every survivor deserves to feel empowered, confident, and strong. Together, we’ll continue fighting for those affected by cancer—one punch at a time.
Program begins Early 2025 and will run for 16 weeks.
Fight Continued is a 16-week, non-contact boxing and fitness program designed specifically for cancer survivors. It's an adapted version of Haymakers for Hope's traditional boxing training journey, focusing on improving survivors' physical, mental, and social health.
The program is open to cancer survivors who have completed their treatment and are looking for a safe, supportive way to rebuild their strength and well-being.
Yes, but Fight Continued is a non-contact boxing program. While participants will train using traditional boxing techniques, there is no sparring or physical contact.
The program is free for all survivors. Haymakers for Hope removes financial barriers, making the program accessible to everyone. Participants are provided with boxing gloves and wraps from our official glove partner, Sting Sports, as well as a Haymaker t-shirt. Included with the program are 2 group sessions with our trainer Dena Lawton as well as access to classes at Nonantum Boxing Club.
The next session of Fight Continued starts in early January 2025 and will take place at Nonantum Boxing Club in Newton, MA. If you are interested in participating in the Fight Continued program but do not live in the greater Boston area, or if you are a gym or a trainer looking to host this program please email us at [email protected].
While Haymakers for Hope typically focuses on preparing participants for charity boxing matches, Fight Continued is non-contact and specifically designed for cancer survivors. It emphasizes health, fitness, and community. You will learn the basics of boxing technique with a certified USA Boxing coach.
Fight Continued was piloted in partnership with Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical, with successful results from participants who saw significant health improvements. Now, we're expanding the program for more survivors to experience these benefits.
Participants are expected to commit to the full 16-week training program to maximize the health and fitness benefits. When: The Programming will start in January 2025. You will be required to be present at 2 of the following 3 times per week.
The program includes fundamentals of boxing and proper technique, strength and conditioning exercises, and a focus on overall fitness – all tailored to be safe for those recovering from cancer treatment. All exercises can be modified to meet individual needs and restrictions.
Dena Lawton leads the Haymakers for Hope Fight Continued Program out of Nonantum Boxing Club. Dena began her boxing journey at age 40, training under Marc Gargaro at Nonantum Boxing Club, and competing at an amateur level with a record of 8-2, including a 2016 Ringside World Championship title. With nearly 15 years in the sport, she has spent the past 9 years as a USA Certified Boxing Coach, training at Nonantum and serving as the head coach of Brandeis University Boxing Team. In addition to coaching, Dena volunteers her time to train and prepare novice boxers to participate in Haymakers for Hope charity bouts.
If you are a cancer focused non-profit or survivorship group looking to get involved on a higher level, please reach out to [email protected]
You can sign up by clicking here.