Boxing encompasses a fairly dense set of defensive, offensive, positioning, and other techniques. To be a good boxer, it is imperative to master as many techniques as possible. On the offensive side, the punches a boxer can throw are numerous, each requiring a particular execution technique. To master them, a lot of training is necessary, but first, one must have knowledge of them. This is why we invite you to discover the different types of punches used in the sport of boxing.
Furthermore, you can also learn more about the history of boxing.
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The Jab, the Most Frequently Used Punch in Boxing
In the world of boxing, the jab is certainly the most used punch, but also the most important. It is also the most used in related sports, such as French boxing, among others. While it may not be the punch that delivers the most power, it is nonetheless very important in combat strategy. It is by starting with a jab that one can follow up with a more powerful punch, as it is the punch that creates openings. The jab is also the punch most likely to disrupt the opponent during a fight. This punch also allows the opponent to be kept at a distance effectively.
The jab can also be used repeatedly as it does not require much energy to deliver. As you can see, the uses of a jab in the ring are endless. Even though it is rare to see knockouts achieved with a jab, mastering this technique is absolutely essential for progressing in boxing, both English and French, and in most combat sports.
The Cross
The cross is a punch similar to the jab, in that it is a straight punch, but the difference is that it is delivered with the rear hand, the hand furthest from the opponent. Since the arm starts from further away, the cross can be delivered with more power. This technique is very often used in combination with the jab. The jab + cross combination can be extremely effective if executed with good technique and timing. Heavyweight boxer Deontay Wilder is an example among other fighters who use this combination with formidable efficiency.
The Hook
The hook, also known as the “hook” in English, is one of the most powerful punches in both English and French boxing. The hook is also among the most powerful punches in sports where kicking is allowed, such as Thai boxing or Muay Thai, which speaks to its effectiveness.
The hook is a semi-circular punch intended to land on the side of your opponent. By pivoting the body correctly, maximum power can be brought to the punch, potentially knocking the opponent down. A large number of knockouts in English or French boxing matches are achieved with hooks. To deliver a hook, boxers must seize the perfect timing, as it is relatively difficult to hit a boxer, especially if they know how to defend themselves.
The hook can also be used to hit the opponent in the body, not just the head. Liver hooks can be very effective and can even win a fight.
The hook requires being at close range to the opponent, so close combat is necessary to deliver it. Mastering this punch is very valuable because it can allow you to finish a boxing match in the early rounds.
The Uppercut
The uppercut is also a semi-circular punch, except that it is delivered from bottom to top facing the opponent. The uppercut allows one to hit the chin, but it can also be used to punch the body. The uppercut is very effective if it hits the opponent and can win a fight by knockout. However, it is a technique that also requires being at close range to the opponent. Moreover, the uppercut can be dangerous for the boxer if missed, as the weight of the body can cause imbalance, exposing the boxer to counter-punches.
Many boxers use this punch effectively and incorporate it into their boxing style. One of the uppercuts that will remain in boxing history is that of heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, who knocked out the legendary Vladimir Klitschko. An unforgettable moment in the history of this sport.
The Overhand
The overhand is a punch in English or French boxing that requires speed, precision, and a sense of timing. That is why this type of punch is mostly delivered by lighter weight boxers, who can move their bodies more quickly. The overhand is used to counter a jab. The arm passes over the opponent’s jab to hit directly in the head (often on the chin). It takes a lot of practice for a boxer to master this punch.
However, one should not overuse this style of strike during a fight, as it exposes one to immediate retaliation if the opponent dodges. It is through discipline and patience in the ring that one can effectively strike with an overhand.
Combinations, an Important Technique
Whether in English boxing, French savate, Thai boxing, or any other combat sport where punches are used, combining striking techniques is very important. Training to master defensive techniques and striking is essential in this sport, but it is equally important to know how to combine them.
The combinations of punches in boxing are numerous, and boxers always favor a few that suit their style. Repeated practice is absolutely necessary to master combinations, and it will make you infinitely more dangerous to your opponent in a fight.
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