How Terence Crawford Trains To Get Fit For Fights

Welterweight Terence Crawford is one of the most formidable fighters in the world and takes a scientific approach to his training.

A three-weight world champion, his natural ability is unquestioned, but it’s hard work in the lead up to his fights that enables him to get the best out of himself. 

Crawford follows a strict training camp, putting his own slant on some traditional methods to get into peak condition.

The focus is on a strong team of trainers and coaches who work collaboratively to create a programme that ticks every box, without pushing the American into the red overtraining zone.

Here are some of the key features of a Terence Crawford training camp.

Focus On Variety In Skill Work

There’s a big degree of specificity in Terence Crawford’s training, and in his technical work, his trainers will throw lots of different scenarios at him.

One session he may be preparing for a fighter to stand toe-to-toe with him, and the next he’ll look at how to cut off the ring if an opponent is staying out of range and moving around him. 

Crawford liked learning new skills and perfecting them from a young age, so it’s something the comes naturally to him.

It’s also important for psychological reasons to have visualised and rehearsed for every eventuality or style of fight.

This kind of thorough preparation is a great way to build mental strength. 

Strength & Conditioning To Stay Healthy

Like all modern fighters, Crawford has a dedicated strength and conditioning coach, and his focus is largely to try and prevent injuries.

The performance gains that come from lifting weights are also important, but getting to the ring in one piece has to take priority. 

If he can recover quickly from sessions and build a strong, robust body, it will stand him in good stead to absorb a lot of cardio work and sparring.

With efficiency being the key, good form is a particular focus when lifting. 

Regular Swimming

Unlike a lot of boxers, Crawford regularly swims throughout his camps. He’ll typically be doing two sessions in the pool a week.

This is because it’s a method of aerobic work that also helps him train his core and focus on his breathing.

A regular workout will be 3-5-7 reps, in which he takes a breath after three strokes, then five strokes, then seven strokes.

Crawford will also test himself on how far he can swim underwater, aiming to get about 100m in if he can.

Vasyl Lomachenko practices holding his breath underwater too because it trains his mind to push through pain and discomfort ahead of stepping into the ring.