Make Your Punches Count: A Guide to the Two Numbering Systems for Effective Boxing Training

Boxers must be able to throw any combination of punches on command. How might coaches help them do this?

One way is to teach a numbering system. Different coaches use different systems, but there are two main types:

The Basic System

1. Jab

2. Cross

3. Lead Hook

4. Rear Hook

5. Lead Uppercut

6. Rear Uppercut

The Cus D’Amato / Mike Tyson System

1. Left Hook to the Head

2. Right Hook/Straight to the Head

3. Left Uppercut

4. Right Uppercut

5. Left Hook to the Body

6. Right Hook to the Body

7. Jab to the Head

8. Jab to the Body

The first is intuitive, while the second defines more specific targets, often labelled on a heavy bag.

Either way, the purpose of a numbering system is to specify punches, expand the boxer’s memory, and shorten instructions for the coach.

Give it a try.

Application

Whichever system you choose, use the following pattern when practicing:

1

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

2

2.1

2.2

…and so on.

Each number may be repeated 5-10 times before moving on to the next. This ensures that you learn every combination systematically.

This is not to say that all training should follow this pattern. In fact, shifting between a systematic approach and a ‘random’ approach is perhaps the best solution for optimal training.

References

Tight-Defence Cus D'amato, 2013. Mike T.Y.S.O.N Cus Number System. [video] Available at: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Me5XdyBVZfs> [Accessed 13 October 2021].

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