What started as something Jackson McCurtis (9) was unsure about quickly turned into a passion.

McCurtis started boxing when he was about 12 years old. His parents believed it was important for him to learn how to defend himself, which led them to encourage him to try boxing. Since then, McCurtis has been boxing at Jet: Boxing & Fitness in Okemos.

At Jet, McCurtis sometimes takes group classes and other times works one on one with a trainer. Although he has tried other gyms, Jet remains his favorite. He typically trains three to four times a week, with a sparring session on Thursdays and Saturdays. A normal practice includes hitting the bag, doing cardio and practicing drills with his trainer.

“You have to have crazy endurance,” McCurtis said.

For McCurtis, this endurance is the most challenging part of boxing. Sparring can last four to five rounds and no matter what happens, he has to continue pushing himself.

The first time McCurtis stepped into the ring with an opponent, he didn’t know what he was doing. Remembering that experience continues to motivate him to improve.

“Boxing is all about discipline, you have to put in the work so you can get the results you want,” McCurtis said.

McCurtis also sees boxing as a healthy way to release stress. After a long or difficult school day, he can take his frustration out on the bag. Even these short practice sessions teach McCurtis that it’s important to stay true to himself, improving how he performs overall.

“Boxing is a very humbling sport,” McCurtis said. “You have to know where you’re at so you don’t think you’re better than the people around you.”