How to Assume a Basic Boxing Stance

"A novice boxer makes the mistake of standing like he's begging to be knocked out. The proper stance is like a posture that should be your starting point for every punch," says Joe Guson, pro boxing trainer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Boxing Trunks
• Boxing Gloves
• Boxing Hand Wraps
• Boxing Mouthpieces

1. Turn so that you're standing at a 45-degree angle to your opponent.

2. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart or wider, with your front foot open and pointed toward your opponent and your back foot more perpendicular for support.

3. Hold your arms up high, with your elbows in tight to your body to protect your sides from body blows. Use your forearms and hands to ward off blows to your head.

4. Stand on the balls of your feet so you can react and move quickly.

Tips & Warnings

• "The most common errors in stance are low hands and standing too square to your opponent. Just turn sideways a bit, get the hands up and you'll be less of a target and better able to protect yourself," Guson says.

Who Can Help:

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[justin76pa]

on 10/2/2008 Visit http://www.boxing4free.com to learn how to box. They have video tutorials.

[Mandy0302]

on 6/26/2007 Not to worry. I found out why we have to keep our hips squared. It because I do a combonation of martial arts. :o)

[Mandy0302]

on 6/21/2007 Hi, We have been taught to keep yourself squared with your opponet as much as posible. You say you should not... I am confused...

[djjohnson]

on 1/9/2007 - my name is david johnson i am a 22 year old father with all the ambition,hard work ethic and drive it takes to be the next great boxer i want a trainer to take me as a lump of clay and mold me to my full potential. Im 6'0'' 180 with a 76'' reach and fight left and right handed i love to box i just need direction. id like to contact joe guson. anyone with feedback contact me a [e-mail]
thankyou

on 8/8/2006 You should always be on the balls of your feet when punching and your heel should not be firmly planted on the ground. When throwing a punch, you should be pivoting on the same-side foot for maximum power; this cannot be properly done if your heel is on the ground.