Master These 7 Advanced Punches to Improve Your Boxing Skills
Advanced punches in boxing are modifications of basic punches that are designed to solve more specific problems. By mastering advanced punches, boxers can improve their overall skill and technique.
Below you will find seven advanced punches that you can add to your arsenal to take your game to the next level:
1. Up Jab
A straight punch with the lead hand from a low lead hand position, the Up Jab is a dynamic and versatile punch in boxing that is often underappreciated. Many fighters fail to harness its full potential due to difficulties in execution and timing. Neglecting the Up Jab can be a missed opportunity in the ring, as it can be a game-changer for both offensive and defensive tactics. However, by mastering the mechanics and strategies associated with this punch, fighters can elevate their boxing skills, gaining a crucial edge over their opponents.
2. Overhand
A vertical curved punch thrown over the opponent’s hand, the Overhand punch is a formidable weapon in a boxer's arsenal, designed to breach an opponent's defence by going over their guard. Yet, it is frequently mishandled, often telegraphed, and rendered ineffective. The consequence of a flawed execution is not just a reduced impact but also heightened vulnerability to counterattacks. To harness the true knockout potential of the Overhand, fighters must focus on mastering its technique and perfecting the timing, ensuring they can land it with precision and power when it matters most.
3. Shovel Hook
An upwards curved punch thrown to the body at a 45-degree angle, the Shovel Hook, known for its deceptive nature and unique angle of attack, is a potent body punch often underutilized in the boxing world. Fighters commonly grapple with the challenge of identifying openings for this punch and executing it with precision. Yet, neglecting the Shovel Hook means missing out on a crucial tool to dismantle an opponent's defence. Mastering this punch can be a game-changer in a fighter's arsenal, unlocking opportunities to inflict substantial body damage, accumulate points, and seize control of the match.
4. Bolo Punch
An upwards curved punch thrown in a swinging motion, the Bolo Punch stands out as one of the most unconventional and surprising strikes in the world of boxing. Its unorthodox nature often poses a challenge for fighters attempting to execute it flawlessly. A poorly executed Bolo Punch not only wastes precious energy but also opens the door to counterattacks. However, delving into the intricacies of timing and technique can turn this unorthodox move into a hidden gem. When used strategically and with precision, the Bolo Punch has the potential to catch opponents off guard, creating unique opportunities to score points and gain a significant advantage.
5. Split-Jab
A straight punch with the lead hand while dodging a straight punch, the Split-Jab is a defensive gem in the realm of counterpunching. Its effectiveness hinges on perfect timing and unwavering precision. The challenge lies in ensuring that the Split-Jab is executed flawlessly to capitalize on incoming attacks. Fumbling this defensive manoeuvre can lead to getting tagged and missing out on valuable opportunities to counter. However, honing the Split-Jab as a counterpunching skill can be a game-changer, enabling boxers to transform their opponent's aggression into scoring opportunities while maintaining a solid defensive stance.
6. Check Hook
A sideways curved punch with the lead hand, while pivoting, the Check Hook offers an elegant solution to defensive and counterpunching challenges. However, its successful execution hinges on mastering not just the punch itself but also the accompanying footwork and timing. Without these crucial elements, a fighter risks vulnerability when retreating or evading an opponent. Yet, investing in learning the Check Hook pays dividends, as it empowers a boxer to seamlessly evade attacks while maintaining the ability to counter effectively, turning defensive maneuvers into opportunities to control the fight.
7. Huppercut
A sideways curved punch that begins as an upwards curved punch, the Huppercut is a truly distinctive punch that seamlessly blends the elements of a hook and an uppercut, and it gets its name from this unique fusion. Combining the explosive upward thrust of an uppercut with the circular motion of a hook, the Huppercut offers boxers a versatile and surprising attack. Yet, mastering this hybrid punch can be challenging due to the need for precise coordination and timing. Improperly executed Huppercuts can leave a fighter vulnerable to counters. However, for those who invest the time to understand its mechanics and perfect its execution, the Huppercut becomes a potent weapon at long range, capable of catching opponents off guard and delivering fight-changing results.
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