Boxing isn't anything like basic hand to hand combat training. Being a former marine myself and taking up boxing for about 7 years, there is a distinct difference. IMO, boxing was tougher to learn.
The training in the corp was survival. Whatever it took to win. In boxing, it's skill. (I know that sounds contradictory, but it's hard to describe.) Try and watch some bouts. Focus on the boxers as they move their feet, how they stand, and move around each other. Granted, you will get some boxers who throw nothing but "haymakers" and hope to land the knockout blow. You can see these kinds of fights if any police departments in your area hold charity bouts. (Although, the Bermuda Police Boxing Team was one of the best I've ever seen). They are still fun to watch. Better than watching on tv.
Boxing takes thought. More than you can imagine. It's looking for the opportunity to land a punch, or jab. Like some have already said, it takes commitment to really learn anything. Lots of conditioning. Did I mention lot of conditioning? It never ceased to amaze me how long two minutes really could be. I'm not going to get into scoring yet.
So think about it. One suggestion I recommend is depending on your weight class (I was a super welterweight. 155-165 lbs) get gloves that weigh more for training. For example, standard gloves are 12, get a 14 or 16 to train with. Think of it as weight training for your hands. Another thing, wrap your wrists tight and make sure you stretch out every time you go to your lessons.
Have fun and good luck!
