Palwan Gym
Youth warming up at Palwan.
The Palwan Gym currently operates three different classes that each meet twice a week. The classes are taught by Uyghur trainers who have themselves achieved their certifications via the Palwan project. One class provides more technical, higher-level training for Uyghur youth serious about competing in or instructing boxing. One class is for more general fitness and boxing practice for Uyghurs of all ages (6-70). The third class is a female-led class that teaches Tae-Kwon-Do and self-defense techniques for women.
Empowering Youth
While Palwan Gym provides a safe and free place for Uyghur youth to have fun and meet other members of the diaspora community, its classes provide other benefits as well. The goal of the boxing is to both instill discipline and confidence in at-risk youth, many of who do not have stable home-lives or supportive mentors.
Skill Building
The classes not only help youth stay in shape but provide them with invaluable skills whether they are in interested in sports competition, self-defense, or instructor certification. A number of participants have become boxing instructors at other gyms or competed on the regional level.