A new gym in the city is taking a unique approach to fitness by integrating STEM learning into boxing training. The gym, named The LaBori Boxing Gym, also known as The LaB, serves as a boxing gym but later turns into a STEM laboratory.
The LaB is the brainchild of Amanda Alvarez, 33, who envisioned a space where young people could grow in physical strength and self-confidence and get exposed to professional opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math.
The LaB offers free classes to those from 8 to 18 years old. Through monthly workshops, kids also learn about STEM, college applications, scholarships, and opportunities for their future.
“You only know what you are exposed to,” said Alvarez, a Puerto Rican native. “I want to give them the tools, kind of dress them with the knowledge that they need earlier in their academic career so that they can start thinking about those decisions beforehand.”
Alvarez aimed to establish a space where she could merge her love for boxing and scientific pursuits. She has a neuroscience doctorate and serves as a consultant for the pharmaceutical sector.
She began boxing at 18, influenced by the culture celebrating the sport. As she progressed through her academic journey, she became aware of the under-representation of Hispanics in the field of science, which inspired her to take an interest in it.
The community has well-received the gym’s unique approach to training, with many parents and students lauding Alvarez’s initiative.
“I thought that boxing was a sport only for guys before my friend invited me to come to the classes with her,” said Maricruz Mendoza, 13, who has been taking classes for two months.
Mendoza, a J. L. Long Middle School student, likes that at LaBori, she can stay active and take a break from her phone.
“When you are home, it is tough to put away your phone, but here I don’t think it is hard,” Mendoza said.
“I am so thankful for this program where my kids can be surrounded by positive people who can be an inspiration and example for them,” said Nancy Soto, mother of two students. “The fact that the program is free means so much for our family because we don’t have to choose which kids get to do an after-school activity.”
LaBori offers classes for parents that cost $10 per class, or there are packages where the classes can cost as low as $6.
“We try to lower other barriers besides costs. We are like a big family,” Alvarez said. “If you’re a mom or a dad, and you have your kid that evening, and you still want to work out, they’re welcome to join.”
The gym’s approach to training has also attracted the attention of educators, who see it as a way to make STEM learning more engaging and accessible to young people.
“The gym’s innovative approach to education and fitness is a great example of how STEM learning can be combined into all areas of life,” said Dr. Maria Lopez, who teaches at the University of Texas at Austin.
“By making learning fun and interactive, the gym is helping to inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.”
Alex Corral, a Bryan Adams High School senior, finds LaBori a valuable resource that helps him concentrate on his goal of attending college next year.
“I like to come here and learn the boxing techniques and how to defend myself,” Corral said.
“It feels good to use my after-school time for something that is going to help me in the future.”
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