"Then stop talking," Arthur said as he raised his hand, taking a stance. "And put those gloves on, start punching."
Ryan took one deep breath as he slid his hands inside the gloves and stepped forward. His head was already racing faster than a cheetah. He threw his first jab—which was clean and fast. The sound of the jab was sharp when it hit the pad. Arthur didn't even blink.
"Again," Arthur said.
Ryan threw another jab. "Just like that?" he asked as he swung his arm.
"Harder."
Ryan exhaled sharply and hit the pad again, using his hips to generate more strength—this time the jab was followed by a cross.
Arthur blocked it with ease; his usual calm demeanor was still there. "This one is better than before; keep swinging your arms more and try to generate a bit more strength in your punches."
Within moments, the steady rhythm filled the air. The sharp thwack of gloves meeting pads echoed through the wide gym, bouncing off the walls.
