If you know you can hit them with the jab, you are definitely in range to throw the power punch!
The boxing jab is essential to learn and master when you’re learning to box and has countless uses when you’re in the ring.
4 great reasons to learn and master the basic jab:
• A range Finder – One of the most common uses for the jab is as a range finder. Keep tapping out the jab until you make contact with your opponent and then fire in the cross – The range finder is ideal to set up your power punch – if you know you can hit them with the jab, you are definitely in range to throw the power punch from your back hand.
• To keep your distance – Nothing says stay away better than a good, hard jab to the face. If you have a fighter who is trying to get up close and personal to you, use a strong stiff jab to keep him at bay. Alternate the power and speed to keep him guessing.
• Its the quickest route – Your lead hand is the closest attacking tool you have to your opponent and the boxing jab is the the quickest and easiest punch to throw.
• As a distraction – Your jab doesn’t have to land on your opponent, you can use your boxing jab as a distraction. e.g. you can pretend to jab high (making your opponent lift his arms for protection) and then fire off a cross to the body. You can tap away at your opponents face to give you a quick break before setting up other combinations.
The boxing jab should come straight from your guards lead hand. It should travel in a straight line and your fist should twists so the knuckles are horizontal at the time of impact. When the jab is thrown keep your chin down and tucked into your shoulder and keep your rear hand up in the guard position to protect your chin.
When jabbing make sure you don’t over extend your arm as this can damage your elbow. Make sure you keep your weight central and don’t lean in as this can throw you off balance and leave you vulnerable for a counter attack.
Practise your jab on a punch bag to build power and speed. Make sure you vary the way you throw the jab both in training and in sparring. Alternate from hitting hard and soft and fast and slow. Changing the power and tempo of your boxing jab will keep your opponent guessing as to what you are going to throw next.
Start as you mean to go on – introducing a strong, quick jab in a fight will automatically stop your opponent from rushing forward and gain you respect from the off. So make sure your boxing jab is up to scratch.
Related posts about the ‘Boxing Jab’…
Jab to the Body – How to Box (Quick Video)
Double Jab – How to Box (Quick Video)
Double Jab, Cross Hook – How to Box (Quick Videos)
Left Jab, Right Cross – How to Box (Quick Video)
Selling the Jab
Boxing Jab – Coach Cornelius Carr