How to Throw a Left Hook in Boxing

Boxing is an extremely popular spectator sport in the United States, but it is also gaining popularity as a form of fitness and self-defense training. As with any sport, technique is key in order to develop your skills and prevent injury. The left hook is one of the most basic boxing moves; however, it is important that you learn to throw your punches properly, protecting your wrists and arms.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Full-sized punching bag
• Wrist wraps
• Boxing gloves

1. Practice your punches with a full-sized punching bag. Always wrap your wrists and protect your hands with boxing gloves.

2. Prepare for the left hook by first placing your body in your basic four-point boxing stance. Stand in front or your punching bag with your non-dominant leg slightly in front of your dominant leg. Your knees should be bent slightly, and your fists should be up in defense position, in front of your chest.

3. Take a small step forward with your dominant foot and then another with your non-dominant foot. As you take your second step, twist on the toes of your dominant foot, lean forward and throw the left hook using the force of your twist and the strength in your legs to carry through the punch. Begin the punch with your thumb face up, turning horizontal as you near the target.

4. Throw your punch and when you hit the surface of the punching back, pull back quickly. The left hook is not a follow-through punch, so do not attempt to keep your fist moving through the target. Keep the move quick, throwing the punch out and pulling it back. Remember to keep your right arm up in defense throughout your left hook to protect yourself from attack.

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