How to Hook
The hook is an important punch in boxing and is also an excellent exercise for improving overall boxing fitness. In terms of its effectiveness in the ring, the hook is a powerful punch that can be used to land shots to the body and head of an opponent. It is a punch that is thrown with a circular motion in a sideways arc.
In terms of its importance for fitness, the hook is a great exercise for working the muscles in the arms, shoulders, and back. It also requires good hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes, making it a valuable tool for improving these skills. Throwing hooks repeatedly as part of a shadowboxing or bagwork routine can help improve muscle endurance and cardiovascular fitness.
Overall, the hook is an important punch in boxing and is also an excellent exercise for improving overall boxing fitness. It works a variety of muscle groups, improves hand-eye coordination, and requires quick reflexes, making it a valuable addition to any boxing workout.
Below is a basic outline on the hook as well as 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 Hook
Optional: Slip to the lead side.
Release the hand from the chin.
Move the hand in an horizontal arc.
Turn the palm inwards.
Lift the elbow to shoulder-height.
Turn the hips.
Turn the front heel up.
Clench before impact.
Exhale.
Circle back into a guard.
The Rear Hook
Optional: Slip to the rear side.
Release the hand from the chin.
Move the hand in a horizontal arc.
Turn the palm inwards.
Lift the elbow to shoulder-height.
Turn the hips.
Turn the rear heel up.
Clench before impact.
Exhale.
Circle back into a guard.
Common Mistakes
Flat-footed stance.
Standing square to opponent.
Standing side-on to opponent.
Locked knees.
Flaring elbows.
Low hands.
Wrists bent.
Thumbs tucked under fingers.
High chin.
Locking the hips.
Keeping the elbow too low.
Lifting the elbow too high.
Hitting with the thumb.
Digging the heels.
Unclenched hand.
Holding the breath.
Forgetting to return to a guard.
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