Jim Davis/Globe Staff

Anthony Rego, 14, left, and Anthony Samayoa, 11, are among the young boxers who work out at the Somerville Boxing Club.

Jim Davis/Globe Staff

Jake Detar,12, of Somerville, worked up a good sweat during a workout.

Jim Davis/Globe Staff

Norman Stone of the Somerville Boxing Club helped Kourtney Yurko wrap her hand before her workout.

Jim Davis/Globe Staff

Until recently, many boxing gyms were for men only. But more women see the sport as a great fitness activity.

Jim Davis/Globe Staff

The upsurge in boxing gym memberships is part of a renaissance of the “sweet science” that for years has been stuck with a sour image.

Jim Davis/Globe Staff

Dylan Fernandes, 13, got some punches in on the heavy bag.

Jim Davis/Globe Staff

The Somerville club was based in more than half a dozen previous venues before setting up in the basement of the Edgerly School.

Jim Davis/Globe Staff

The Somerville club now has more than 400 members.