If you’ve ever dreamed of throwing a punch, or are just curious about the basics of boxing, this blog post is for you! Here, we’ll break down some of the most common boxing terms and explain how to land a punch. From the upper cut to the jab and the hook, you’ll learn the key moves you need to know to hit like a pro. So without further ado, let’s dive into the beginner’s boxing glossary and start learning how to land a punch!
Boxing Punches & How to Land Them
The Upper Cut
The upper cut is a powerful punch that can be used to deliver a knockout blow. It is an overhead punch, thrown from the shoulder and rising diagonally up toward your opponent’s chin. When thrown correctly, the upper cut should be thrown with the body weight behind it and can be a very effective tool when used as part of a combination or to counter an opponent’s attack. The key to throwing an effective upper cut is to keep your elbow tucked in close to your body and use your torso to generate power.
When throwing an uppercut, it is important to remember to keep your guard up and your chin down. Keep your arms tight against your body and rotate your torso as you move in for the punch. Your other arm should remain in the guard position, protecting your chin and neck. This helps keep you safe and allows you to generate more power with the punch. It is also important to remember to step forward with the same leg as the punching hand, as this gives you more power and momentum.
The upper cut is a powerful punch, but one that must be used with caution and precision. When used properly, it can help deliver a powerful knockout blow and prove to be a very effective tool in boxing.
The Cross
The cross is a straight punch thrown with the dominant hand. It’s a powerful punch that can be used to deliver maximum power into your opponent. It’s usually used as a finishing punch, to end a combination or as a counterpunch.
When throwing a cross, you should stand with both feet planted firmly on the ground, square up to your target, and then step forward with your lead foot as you throw the punch. Your hips should rotate as you throw the punch, generating as much power as possible. You should aim to hit your target at the very end of the punch, when your fist is fully extended.
Your hand should be in a tight fist and it should remain close to your face when you throw the punch. This will help protect you from any potential counters by keeping your chin tucked behind your shoulder and arm.
The cross is an important punch to master for any boxer, as it can be used to deliver powerful punches and set up combinations. Keep practicing and soon you’ll be throwing crosses with ease!
The Jab
The jab is one of the most important punches in boxing and is often used to set up other punches or to score points. It is a straight punch thrown with the lead hand, usually the left hand for right-handed boxers. The power of the jab comes from the rotation of the hips, shoulders and torso, and not the arm alone. The reach of the jab can be further extended by rotating the body and slightly leaning the torso forward.
When throwing a jab, it’s important to keep the elbow tucked in close to your body and the arm slightly bent at the elbow. This will help protect your chin from a counter punch as well as give you greater reach and control. It’s also important to remember that the jab is a “pushing” punch, not a “punching” punch. To maximize the power of your jab, always try to land it with an extended arm.
The jab can be used in many different ways, from establishing range, to distracting your opponent and setting up your other punches. It’s also one of the best punches to use if you are trying to score points in a competition. When throwing jabs, try to move your feet and head to ensure you stay balanced and protected.
The Hook
The hook is a powerful punch that originates from the side of the body and is usually used to attack opponents that are near you. It requires good technique, as well as strength and speed, in order to be effective.
To throw a hook, start by standing with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and turn your right shoulder towards your opponent. Then, quickly extend your right arm out, keeping your elbow bent and your hand closed tightly. As you extend your arm, twist your torso towards the right and rotate your fist so it faces down, as if you were pointing your knuckles at the floor. As you punch, continue to rotate your fist, pivoting it from the wrist, so that when it lands on the opponent’s body, it is facing upwards. This will maximize the power of the punch.
The hook is often used in combination with other punches, such as the uppercut and the jab. In order for it to be effective, timing and accuracy are essential; practice throwing the hook with a partner in order to perfect the technique.
