How to Employ Proper Boxing Techniques (1 of 27) / Training Methods: "The Boxing Stance"

Boxing has proven to be one of the most dominating fighting techniques used throughout the world. While some view the sport as a means of entertainment, there are those who use it as way to relieve stress, stay in shape, and even earn a living. One should realize that learning the art of boxing is not something that can be achieved overnight, and will require your time and dedication. Although advanced training may require the use of a boxing gym, a majority of the exercises and techniques can be learned at home. This series of articles will provide you with a comprehensive study of the fundamental concepts and techniques used by all world class fighters including: the 6 basic punches, footwork, use of flurries, shadow boxing, defensive tactics, bobbing and weaving, training/conditioning methods, usage of equipment & more...

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• The following list of items are optional, but strongly recommended in order to take full advantage of the series of articles (nothing is needed for "Boxing Stance")
• 16 OZ boxing gloves
• boxing hand wraps
• proper boxing shoes
• non-transparent tape
• access to weights
• a mirror
• a medicine ball
• access to a speed bag
• access to a heavy bag
• a mat to lay on
• several household items

1. 
   Righty = Orthodox Lefty = Southpaw

   The first thing to determine is whether or not you feel comfortable fighting as a righty (in an orthodox position), or as a lefty (in a south paw position). In an orthodox position, it is important to keep the left foot and shoulder forward, while keep the right shoulder and foot back (vise versa for all south paw fighters).It is always a good idea to keep the least amount of surface area facing your opponent, giving them less surface area to target.

2. You should keep a distance of about 15 to 20 inches apart from one foot to another at all times, while maintaining a comfortable position. Your feet should not be perfectly aligned so that one foot is directly in front of the other. This will prevent you from tripping over your own feet during the heat of battle.
   
   Training Technique 1:
   Tie a string (about 15 to 20 inches in length depending on height of the fighter) from one ankle to the other. Remember that a good fighter always keeps about the same distance from one foot to the other while fighting.

3. One should keep knees slightly bent to improve balance, and back straight. You should also keep your chin and elbows tucked in towards your torso. For orthodox (righty) fighters, keep the right elbow touching your torso and fist touching right side of your jaw. Left Elbow is about 4 to 5 inches in front of torso, with your left fist in front of jaw.
   
   NOTE: Fists should always have thumb overlapping other four fingers, and your wrists should always be straight and firm to prevent injury.

4. Try to keep knees slightly bent in order to give you better manuverability and to provide you with a better sense of balance.
   
   Training Technique 2:
   Practice your boxing stance in front of a mirror paying very close attention to detail. For example, many people have the natural tendency to raise their elbows off to their sides, making them very vulnerable to attack. DON'T CHICKEN WING IT!

[mikemiami2010]

on 5/19/2009 Hey good stuff AndrewKnows.I look forward to reading the rest of the series of articles 8)

[lawlessfixit]

on 5/18/2009 Dear andrewknows: Great article. Makes me want to get back in there again.

[xrayness]

on 5/18/2009 Dear andrewknows: Very impressive writing. As a contributor with over 465 articles, I know a good article when I see one. I especially like the ending: DON'T CHICKEN WING IT!!!! I rate this 5 Super Duper Stars.