How to Block
Blocking is an essential technique in boxing that is used to defend against an opponent's punches. It involves using your gloves, arms, and shoulders to deflect or absorb the impact of an incoming punch. Proper blocking technique is crucial for a boxer's defense, as it can help protect them from taking clean hits and can also create opportunities for counterattacks.
There are a variety of blocking techniques that a boxer can use, depending on the type of punch being thrown and the situation. Some common blocking techniques include the high guard, which involves holding the gloves near the face to protect the head and chin; the peek-a-boo guard, which involves holding the gloves in front of the face with the elbows tucked in to protect the body; and the shell guard, which involves holding the gloves close to the body and using the elbows to protect the ribs.
In addition to protecting a boxer from taking clean hits, blocking can also be used as an offensive technique. By blocking an opponent's punches, a boxer can disrupt their timing and rhythm, making it more difficult for them to land clean shots. Blocking can also create openings for counterattacks, as an opponent's punch can be deflected or absorbed, leaving them vulnerable to a counter punch.
Overall, blocking is an essential technique in boxing that is crucial for a boxer's defense. It involves using the gloves, arms, and shoulders to deflect or absorb the impact of an incoming punch, and it can also be used as an offensive tactic to disrupt an opponent's timing and create openings for counterattacks.
Below is an outline of five basic blocks and common mistakes to avoid:
Starting Position
Orthodox stance (Southpaws reverse ‘right’ and ‘left’):
Feet shoulder-width apart.
Step the right foot back.
Turn the heels 45-degrees.
Lift the rear heel up.
Bend the knees.
Elbows on the ribs.
Wrists straight.
Fingers tucked under thumbs.
Hands to chin.
Chin down.
The Lead Block
Touch the temple of the head with the lead hand.
Keep the elbow tucked in.
The Rear Block
Touch the temple of the head with the rear hand.
Keep the elbow tucked in.
The Lead Elbow
Tuck the lead elbow in.
Drop the lead shoulder, tilting the body to the left.
Slightly rotate inwards.
The Rear Elbow
Tuck the lead elbow in.
Drop the rear shoulder, tilting the body to the right.
Slightly rotate inwards.
The Cover
Raise both hands to the temples of the head.
Keep the elbows tucked in.
Crouch slightly to lower the stance.
Cover the head and body as much as possible.
Common Mistakes
Reaching out.
Elbow flaring.
Lifting the chin.
Looking away from the opponent.
Closing the eyes.
Feet too narrow.
Feet crossed.
Standing too side=on to opponent.
Standing too square to opponent.
Moving with a predictable rhythm.
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