Boxing is a lot more complex than simply throwing punches. It's harder than most people think. It takes skill, cardio, timing and awareness. Whether you're a seasoned professional or your first time putting on the gloves, refining your technique will take you a long way! Here are 5 tips to elevate your boxing game and refine your technique.
1. Master The Basics
You wouldn't run before you walked and there's no exception in the sport of boxing. Before you get into complex combinations or experimenting with your power, you need to drill the fundamentals. This involves your stance, footwork, hand positioning and proper punching. You should be perfecting your jab, your cross, uppercut and hooks. Remember, the best fighters are the ones who master the fundamentals.
2. Clean Up Your Footwork
Your movement is everything in boxing. If you get caught in a bad position, you need to evade, also, if your movement is solid, you can find openings. You can also improve your timing and distance with strong movement. Try and get a feel for the ring and practice your awareness of the ropes and centre. Move around the ring to establish fluidity and try drills such as shadowboxing and ladders to speed up agility and coordination.
3. Perfect Your Timing
You should aim to get your precision down before your power punches. A lot of juniors fall into the trap of working on power before anything. Not only is this exhausting, but it means you've only got one tool in your kit. You should practice hitting targets on a bag and get faster at pad work. Work with a partner to visualise openings. Practice your jab, a jab can be more effective than a hook.
4. Build Up Your Defense
The primary goal of boxing is to hit and then not get hit. Your defense is just as important as your offense. Some of the best boxers in the world have mastered this skill and it makes it nearly impossible to hit them. You should practice keeping your hands up to protect your face. A good drill is to hold 5 kg weights above to cover your face for 5 minutes at a time. This will reinforce your guard. You should also always be looking for ways to evade and counter.
5. Get Used To Sparring
It can be uncomfortable to spar, but the best way to learn is to put yourself in uncomfortable situations. There's no substitute for sparring, shadow boxing can only get you so far. It's the best way to get a feel for boxing, bringing in all the components that you've learnt. Spar with partners with varying degrees of skill to build up your confidence and distance. Pay attention to your immediate weaknesses and areas where you lack experience and use them as an opportunity to grow.
Improving your boxing technique is hard. It requires dedication, commitment and discipline. It all starts with the basics, when you master those, your growth potential is endless. Incorporate these tips and commit to training and you'll fast track your boxing journey.
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