Boxing quickly spread to all countries. Amateur boxing's purpose is to score a victory through technical skills, in accordance with the competition's rules. Boxing matches or bouts take place on a square elevated ring. The platform is padded with foam or felt, and it is covered with canvas. Bouts are shorter than in professional boxing and scoring rules favor the skillful boxer over the powerful boxer.
Bouts consist of three rounds of three minutes each, with a one-minute rest between rounds.
The competitors must box in shorts, which reach at least half way down the thigh, a vest covering the chest and back, and light boots without heels. Boxers must wear either a red or blue singlet, depending on the color of their corner in the ring. Form-fitted gumshields must be worn to protect the teeth, and must be available in the host country. A cup protector must be worn. Head guards are mandatory and must be AIBA approved.