Located in the heart of Plympton, Carl's Boxing Stable brings grassroots boxing back to the community, providing boxing training, fitness sessions, and a support network for local residents.
Run by Carl Goldsborough and his wife Sarah, alongside his team Gavin Bolger Jamie Landricombe, Vernan Pemprase, JP Eccles and Darren Lawton - the team operate from The Hillcrest Community Centre, a building leased to Carl by Plymouth Community Homes, which not only offers fitness and boxing sessions for all skill levels, but serves as a community hub, often hosting community led events and support gatherings.
Gym sessions are very affordable, priced at £3 for kids and £4 for adults, with some sessions funded through initiatives such as Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Community Homes and government schemes.
Carl has near plans to develop a five-week program for individuals or groups that includes fitness training and boxing, with the potential to continue their training if suitable. Much of the work involved is focused on serving the local community, providing an avenue for promoting positive mental health and fitness.
Carl Goldsborough, Carl's Boxing Stable said:
"Everything we do here is for the community. We are trying to bring grassroots boxing back to the area and provide a place for positive mental health all whilst improving fitness and health of our members"
Carl started boxing when he was only 11 and has now been coaching for the past 30 years. He competed as an amateur and hoped to turn professional, but unfortunately suffered a detached retina. Originally based in Torquay Apollo Boxing Gym, he trained with Gareth Hog and the Torbay team from Seven Hills Boxing Gym. Carl then moved to Plympton 25 years ago and set up Carl's Boxing Stable in Hillcrest, Plympton.
Members at Carl’s Boxing Stable range from all levels of experience and goals, with Carl often taking both amateurs and professionals from his gym abroad to compete, including several international champions.
During our visit, we met Corrina Turner from Seven Hills Gym, who aims to turn professional in the future. This is a great example of how Carl operates and networks throughout Devon and Cornwall. He is always seeking sponsors and collaborations to support children and local community members.
Hazel Alexander, a Communities Worker from Plymouth Community Homes, is sometimes based at the centre, where she works closely with residents who visit the centre and helps identify the support and events needed in the area.
Hazel Alexander, Communities Worker from Plymouth Community Homes, highlighted the importance of the gym:
"Carl's Boxing Stable is an absolute gem for the area, promoting positive mental health and fitness classes for residents. Carl's hard work and support for his local community shines through with the amazing work he does day in and day out"
If you have any enquiries, you can always get in touch with Hazel at 07827083259.
