This can be solved by doing a quick search on the Internet or by talking to all your connections at your boxing club. When you're ready, your coach will likely let you know. You'll likely know, too. This step is more paperwork than anything. Visit USAboxing.org (if you're based in the US, of course) to get a list of information by state. Once you do this, you'll be able to find open events that you can participate in. You will do this by filling out an application and undergoing a physical examination from your doctor. This is done at the state level through the State Athletic Commission when it comes to the US. You will have to contact the necessary people to get your license to compete in events. There is a minimal fee and it varies by state. Other than that, it's just a bunch of forms and a physical assessment. These events are the way most fighters get their initial experience. The fights don't count towards your record, but are the safest and most practical way of getting experience. You'll be able to find them through connections and through your organization's website, which should post upcoming events. You'll be classed by age, weight, and record initially. You can be an amateur boxer in the US at just 8 years old! The difference between amateur and pro boxing is that you will be allowed to wear protective headgear. This is essential in the beginning stages of your fighting career in order to prevent potentially fatal injuries while you learn to protect yourself.  Again, you will be placed according to your weight, age group and class, which will begin as "novice" if you're 17 or older. You'll start out in local and regional tournaments, with a long-term goal of competing in the U.S. Amateur Championships and earning a spot on the U.S. Boxing team. Some coaches are pretty sketchy. They'll encourage to fill a slot in a weight class just so you can get going and they can start profiting off of you. Don't do this – sometimes it's just not healthy and your body will take to injury much more easily. Only compete where you feel comfortable, not where your coach says you should go.  Think about where your weight normally stays around (provided it's consistent and you're fit, of course). You may be able to compete at about 5 pounds more or less than that, but anything greater will likely put strain on your body and be unhealthy. You're going to be facing really, really talented individuals. You think you're fit now, but you'd be surprised the strides your body can make, especially when it comes to endurance. At this level, here's what you should be capable of:  Running 3–5 miles (4.8–8.0 km) without getting too tired Jumping rope for 30 minutes straight Hitting the heavy bag for 15 minutes non-stop Being able to spar with any amateur from any gym (not including pro-level amateurs with over 100 fights) Sparring double the required rounds (amateur boxing is 3 rounds)

Summary: Find your local amateur boxing organization. Register as an amateur boxer. Participate in unsanctioned boxing events. Begin your amateur boxing career. Don't just fill a vacant slot in a weight class. Get even more fit.


Any cola or soda that includes phosphoric acid in the ingredients can be used to remove rust. Other options include lime juice or vinegar. These mild acids can remove rust without significant risk to the surrounding metal.  Diet cola does not have sugar in it, so the process will be less sticky. However, the sugar does help the acid to adhere to the rust. Avoid strong or concentrated acids, which can etch and weaken the underlying metal. If these household acids are ineffective, try again with phosphoric acid, but keep a fan on to blow corrosive fumes away from your face. Before you attempt to remove the rust on the chrome it is best to make sure all the dirt and other debris are removed. This helps you to see and access the rust more easily for removal. Use car wash soap to clean painted surfaces on cars, and regular soapy water for other chrome objects. Ideally, soak the object for 15 minutes before removing. If you cannot soak the object, then simply pour the mild acid over the surface. You may need to use a rough sponge or gentle dish scrubber to remove the dissolved rust. Scrubbers designed for use on glass cookware tend to have the lowest risk of scratching your chrome. To remove heavy rust, rub gently with strips of aluminum foil or scrub with scouring pads. If you are cleaning a car, use car wash soap to remove the rust and acid residue. Dish soap should not be used on painted car surfaces, since it may strip the paint. Unpainted surfaces can be cleaned using any ordinary soap and water. Remove moisture with paper towels to minimize further rust. If the rust has caused noticeable damage, refer to the section on follow up care. Apply a coat of polish or wax on the chrome to prevent rust from forming in the future.

Summary: Use cola, lime juice, or other mild household acids. Clean the chrome. Soak or cover the chrome with the acid. Wipe or scrub the rust off. Wash off residue with a safe soap. Dry and care for the car.


Your adjuster will have more knowledge about your claim than any agent or representative with your insurance company. Therefore, it may be worthwhile to communicate directly with him on any issues you're confused or unsatisfied with.  Decisions you may be confused or unsatisfied with include those based on your application of coverage, the timing of when you filed your proof of loss, or the damage estimate. Contact your adjuster on these and similar matters before speaking to an insurance agent. If you are still not clear on why a decision was reached, or if you do not agree with that decision, you can then move on to the adjuster's supervisor. Ask your adjuster for his supervisor's contact information, and reach out to the supervisor before notifying an insurance agent. If your adjuster's supervisor is unable to help you, or if you still do not agree with his decision, you may then move on to your insurance company. The adjuster himself, as well as his supervisor, should be appealed to first, as they will have greater knowledge about your damage and the claim you filed. Contact your insurance agent through your usual means of communication, or look up the contact information for a representative at your insurance company. If you're still unclear on what's happening with your claim, or if you still have outstanding issues that are not being handled properly, you may contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). They can help clarify the process and may be able to help you mount an appeal if you did not have any luck with your adjuster, his supervisor, or your insurance company.
Summary: Talk to your adjuster first. Move on to the adjuster's supervisor. Contact your insurance company. Reach out to FEMA.