Oz box

'Ozbox' encourages young people who are involved in crime or anti-social behaviour, or those spiralling towards it, to take part in a boxing-based fitness activity. We held one in Derbyshire recently.

Ozbox is a concept that came into being around 3 years ago. Detective Inspector Steve Osbaldeston from Chesterfield Police was inspired to develop a scheme aimed especially at youths between the ages of 12 to 19 years. Both male and females who are involved in crime or anti-social behaviour or those spiralling towards it are encouraged to take part. It also encourages participants from family and school groups from all socio-economic backgrounds.

The intention is to involve them in a gym environment which is based on boxing traditions, with an emphasis on non-contact training. That's to say they take part in and learn fitness and circuit training, along with physical and personal discipline. The scheme is attractive as it provides early rewards in terms of personal development.

Ozbox aims to engage youngsters, allowing them to positively direct their energies and to encourage them to take pride in themselves and their local communities. The scheme also makes fruit available at Ozbox classes. It aims to expose and inform the children about healthy eating choices. Ozbox also encourages participants from all backgrounds and cultures in order to engender tolerant attitudes within the group.

The Derbyshire Ozboz was a huge success, with more than 100 children taking part.

For more information about Ozbox, download our Ozbox leaflet.