How to Control the Ring in Boxing

"A boxer who controls the ring is the guy who does the best job of cutting it off for his opponent," says Joe Guson, pro boxing trainer. "Like a basketball team can control the flow of the game on offense, a boxer can control the flow of the ring."

Things You'll Need

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

Instructions

1. Be on the attack as soon as the bell rings.

2. Keep your opponent on the move with quick footwork.

3. Use the triangle theory and keep your opponent at its point. In other words, cut off your opponent's movements by stepping laterally, giving him less room to box.

4. Control the spacing between you and your opponent by keeping him away with jabs, or by moving in close to work the body.

Tips & Warnings

• "You can't read a book to learn how to control the ring; you just have to do it," says Guson. "It's like playing Little League baseball. Just give the kid a ball and a bat and tell him to go play."

• Be in good shape. A tired boxer will not be able to move effectively or punch with any strength.