Training for the Knockout: Ronaldo Mancilla

I’ve called the Big Bear mountains home for the past 24 years. A popular training haven for athletes from around the globe, Big Bear offers an unparalleled environment for pushing the limits—and for good reason.

My love for boxing began at just 11 years old. Back then, I didn’t fully appreciate the advantage of training at high altitude. It wasn’t until I began competing as an amateur that I noticed the difference: while my opponents struggled to catch their breath, I recovered quickly and stayed strong throughout the match. It all clicked in biology class back in high school that I learned the science behind high-altitude training. That’s when I understood why so many elite athletes come to Big Bear to prepare for competition.

Beyond boxing, I have a deep passion for trail running and mountain biking. There’s no better place in Southern California for this than Big Bear. The endless trails and stunning mountain scenery make every run or ride an adventure. As a professional boxer, running is a cornerstone of my training. Whether I’m running along the lake or challenging myself on the mountain trails, I’m constantly reminded of how fortunate I am to train in such an inspiring place.

Boxing is an unforgiving sport—one punch can change everything. That’s why I train as hard as I can, and high-altitude training gives me the edge I need. Stepping into the ring with the peace of mind that I’ve prepared my best here in Big Bear is priceless.

Happy Training!