The Boxing Cross
Corney’s Corner
step by step boxing advice
Tips from former BBBofC British Super-Middleweight & WBF World Middleweight Champion – Cornelius Carr
The cross is one of the most effective power punches in boxing. In order to make it as explosive as possible, you will need to use your whole body to send the punch forward. Keep tall when you throw the punch and twist your hip and your foot to generate as much power as possible. Standing tall is vitally important when you are throwing a cross. This will stop you from leaning into the punch. Leaning in, is a big “no no”, do not lean forward too far over your front foot. If you miss, you’ll be left vulnerable position and off balance. If you do land the cross whilst leaning forward, you will still be off balance and your incorrect stance won’t allow for powerful following shots.
Checklist for the ‘The Boxing Cross’
- Keep your left hand up to guard your chin (based on Orthodox stance).
- Throw the cross straight from you guard.
- Keep a slight bend in your elbow (don’t over extend the arm).
- Use you hips to twist your upper body into the punch.
- Slightly twist you punch at the end of the cross.
- Keep your weight 50/50 (don’t lean into the punch).
- Tuck your chin into your shoulder and keep looking forward.
- Twist on the ball of your back foot.
- Remember to stand tall when you throw the punch.
It’s a good idea to practice this on a punch bag, until you get your technique correct. Try to combine all the useful tips shown above and work in one fluid motion. Make sure you are wearing your wraps on to keep your wrist strong and to protect from injury. Once you have your technique working properly, try to relax before you throw, and tense just before impact. This will add speed to your punch. Keeping your arm tense during the cross, will slow the punch down and ultimately will deliver less power.
Related posts …
The Boxing Stance – Coach Cornelius Carr
Boxing Sit Down – Coach Cornelius Carr
Low Looping Body Shot – Coach Cornelius Carr
Boxing Slip Technique – Coach Cornelius Carr
Elbow Blocking – Coach Cornelius Carr
Using the Turning Shoulder Roll – Coach Cornelius Carr
The Sneak Punch – Coach Cornelius Carr