Before you start hitting the bag, it’s important to know what you’re doing.
Here we’ll go over the proper technique for throwing the 6 main punches in boxing. From jabs, to hooks, to uppercuts, you’ll learn everything you need to know in order to get the most out of your DribbleUp Boxing workout!
Before You Start
Every punch starts with your technique. Not only does it make sure you get the most power in your punches, but it can also keep you from getting injured as well.
Make sure you practice with a good boxing stance. Face your feet 45 degrees towards your dominant side, and hold your hands up with your non-dominant hand in front. Practicing good posture will make your training more effective.
Now, enough with the boring stuff. Let’s get punching!
Jab
Your jab is one of the most important punches you can throw due to its quickness, which also makes it ideal for starting punch combos.
To throw a jab, start in a proper boxing stance. Throw a straight punch with your front hand, making sure that your knuckles are facing up when your hand strikes the bag. Make sure to fully extend your arm, and rapidly draw it back in to maintain your defense.
Cross
The cross is the “2” in the “1-2” combo. This is your main power punch, which you throw with your rear hand. Like the jab, make sure your strike lands with your knuckles pointed up.
One of the most important parts of the cross is your feet. Your legs generate your power, so it’s important to push off and pivot with your back foot while anchoring with your front. Use your whole body, from your legs to your shoulders to your arms, to complete the motion and draw your arm back quickly.
Front Hook
Hooks are ideal for targeting the side of the bag (or your opponent’s head/body). First up is the front hook, which is similar to a jab in that it’s a quicker punch thrown with your front fist. However, the technique is slightly different.
Instead of throwing your fist straight, it should curve from the outside of your body towards the inside. Make sure to keep your elbows high and tucked for extra speed on your punches.
Rear Hook
This is a massive, devastating power punch that can end a fight as soon as it’s begun. However, that much power means a bigger, longer punch.
A rear hook is much like a cross, but instead of straight, your arm should approach from about a 3/4 angle. Just remember to keep your elbow tucked, your body compact, and quickly retract your arm to maintain a good stance.
Front Uppercut
Uppercuts are incredibly powerful, and they come from a completely different angle than both crosses or hooks, which can surprise your opponent.
The front uppercut is a quick punch that can be used with a cross or rear hook for a devastating combo. Start in your boxing stance, and rotate your front hand so that your knuckles face your opponent. As you do this, swing your fist upwards as you strike the bag. Return to your position after throwing the strike.
Rear Uppercut
This punch is a certified knockout blow. The uppercut packs the devastation of a dominant hand punch with the surprise of an uppercut. It’s thrown just like a front uppercut, though performed with the rear hand with the same leg motion as back punches.
The rear uppercut takes a lot of power and requires you to drop your backhand for a longer time, leaving you open to strikes. However, perfecting this punch can yield devastating results for your opponents, either in the ring or on the screen!
Now you’re ready to get boxing!
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