Brooklyn Based Champion Boxer Punches Fitness Into the Community

Dmitry Salita. Photo: Algemeiner.

Jewish boxing champion Dmitry Salita – dubbed “the star of David” -  is a perennial frontrunner in the welterweight boxing panorama, presently holding a record of 33-1-1 with a colossal 17 KO’s.  Now he has turned up with a new venture, opting to go to battle for his local Jewish community in Brooklyn New York.

The ambitious fighter has opened a new fitness program geared towards people of all ages looking for a serious physical conditioning class, one that features and provides a high energy training curriculum, with a personalized touch.

Developed by the experienced Jewish fighting champ, his new program offers a chance to achieve and maintain top physical condition, as well as the opportunity for “inner growth and serenity”. Open to people of all ages including classes for children and young adults, Dmitry’s new undertaking is promising

Speaking with The Algemeiner one on one, the champ had a chance to communicate  his goals and vision, expounding on his newly implemented venture.

How did you come up this idea, what inspired you to teach?

I had parents coming up to me asking me to train their kids. We have an ongoing program at the JCC in Bensonhurst throughout the year as well as a training program at the summer camp.

What are some of your coaching methods?

Well firstly, with the kids there is no hitting and no sparing at all.  Each session is finished with a positive “message of the day”  and the workout is made up of time tested boxing and conditioning techniques, as well as new fitness methods to create an interesting and progressive experience. Our goal is not to turn kids into pro boxers but rather to help them with focus with self confidence and also to help them get into better shape.  To motivate them with a positive message of courage and perseverance.

What is the objective of this class?

For kids to get into good physical condition and learn self defense, and we also encourage them to take some of the positive messages and apply them to their daily lives.  Boxing scares parents, because the program, its much more intense than martial arts.  Boxers are the best athletes in the world.

Are there stages in the program and is there an ultimate goal that has been laid out?

There is a structure to the program like a martial arts program where there are stages of progression that not only include different boxing techniques but also physical fitness development and progression. Similar to karate, the kids go from stage to stage with the potential to be successful, however the course is specified to meet each individuals needs.

What are some of the other benefits of this class?

What we are really trying to do here is to provide an exciting and safe venue for kids to come and let out their energy. When they are in school all day there is a lot of frustration and simply hitting a bag is really the best way to rid one of that stress. Exercise is a very constructive method for staying healthy and happy and boxing is its purest form. And as a result kids are doing better in school by being able to focus and work harder.

Can you elaborate on some of the workouts that will be implemented?

The workouts consist of proper warm-ups with foot work and shadow boxing, bag work, and conditioning. The workout is simple, easy to learn, high energy, and built on a model of progressive skills and intensity. The students are mentally and physically engaged since the movements are fun, interesting, and teach a useful skill, resulting in tremendous involvement and participation in the workout.

Who were some of your “heroes” growing up?

I had boxing heroes who not only made contributions to boxing but also used their talents in sports to make social progression and make the world a better place.  Guys like  Mohammed Ali,  Barney Ross, and Benny Leonard.

When is your next fight?

As of now I have nothing scheduled but we are working on something very big in the near future.