How to Pivot
Pivoting is an important technique in boxing that involves turning the body and shifting the feet in order to change direction and position. It is a technique that is used to evade punches, create openings for counterattacks, and maintain control of the ring. Pivoting requires good footwork, balance, and body control, and it is an essential element of a boxer's movement and strategy in the ring.
There are a few different ways that a boxer can pivot in order to evade punches and create openings for counterattacks. One way is to pivot on the front foot, which allows a boxer to quickly change direction and position. Another way is to pivot on the back foot, which is a more controlled movement that is used to set up shots and counterattacks.
In addition to its offensive applications, pivoting can also be used as a defensive tactic. By constantly moving and adjusting position, a boxer can make it more difficult for an opponent to land clean shots and can also create opportunities to counter.
Overall, pivoting is an important technique in boxing that is used to evade punches, create openings for counterattacks, and maintain control of the ring. It requires good footwork, balance, and body control and is an essential element of a boxer's movement and strategy in the ring.
Below is a basic outline of the pivot, along with common mistakes to avoid:
Starting Position
Orthodox stance (Southpaws to mirror the instructions):
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 Pivot (Clockwise)
Imagine the front foot is planyed on the center of a clock and pointing to 1 o’clock.
Turn the front foot to 3 o’clock
Circle the rear foot to 9 o’clock
The Pivot (Anti-Clockwise)
Imagine the front foot is planyed on the center of a clock and pointing to 1 o’clock.
Circle the rear foot to 2 o’clock.
Turn the front foot to 10 o’clock.
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.
Stepping the rear foot first when turning clockwise (southpaws when turning anti-clockwise).
Standing with the ankle at an awkward angle.
Find this useful?
Follow me on social media:
