Adrian Peterson says boxing makes him a better running back

Adrian Peterson says that sparring in combat sports is part of what makes him a better running back.

Despite his personal troubles, Adrian Peterson is still regarded as an elite talent and one of the best running backs in the NFL. The reason for that, according to ESPN, is because he spars in a boxing ring.

Peterson’s personal trainer, James Cooper, has a background in both boxing and mixed martial arts, and that he implements both of them in his gym. MMA has started to catch on in many peoples’ workout regimens, including Peterson’s teammate Danielle Hunter, and while he has tried it before, he prefers the more disciplined nature of boxing.

"“[It helps with] being patient. Being patient and always having your guard up and always being prepared and ready for that attack. You get in the ring and you get sloppy, you start to swing too much, and you’re gonna get knocked out before you know it. By being patient and having a defensive mindset, you always have your guard up."

But when Peterson’s trainer was asked how boxing benefits him, he says that it’s what gives him his edge, and what makes him a difficult running back to stop:

"The reason we box like that and spar is to teach him how to be combative with a defensive lineman — sometimes, hit him in the mouth, and the next play, go right at him, but then take a step over to the side as you go right at him. They’re going to brace for that load, and then you can make your move… It’s several things that he can feel and understand. It gives him the mentality of how to be a true warrior on the fly."

Make of that what you will. There’s no denying that Adrian Peterson is one of the most athletically gifted players in the NFL, and training in combat sports certainly helps in that regard. But for someone who just recently got into trouble over a domestic dispute, it’s a bit disconcerting to hear his trainer encouraging that type of violent behavior on the field.

But Peterson is still an invaluable member of the Minnesota Vikings, and considering they should’ve beat the Seattle Seahawks last playoffs, they’ll look to build on their success from last season. They’re a young team that’s only going to get better as Teddy Bridgewater matures and Adrian Peterson is still in his prime.

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