Boxing

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Offensive Techniques

To be effective, boxers must have an assortment of punches that are coordinated with their footwork. Less powerful punches often serve the important role of setting up the fighter’s chief “weapons,” as boxing analysts sometimes call a boxer’s main offensive skills.

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1

Feinting

Moving the hands or head to confuse an opponent is called feinting. A smart boxer will first test the opponent by trying different feints, noting the reaction to each one before deciding which will be most effective to set up a punch.

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2

Left Jab

The boxer delivers a left jab by striking out with the left arm while the left elbow is straightened sharply. A boxer opens up less with a jab than with many other types of punches. The jab can also be used to ward off blows.

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3

Right Cross

The right cross is usually the most powerful blow of a right-handed boxer. It is delivered by feinting with a left jab and, before the jab reaches the mark, driving the right fist straight out while the boxer twists to the left and pivots on the sole of the right foot.

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4

Left Hook

Delivering a left hook properly requires perfect coordination and timing. The boxer executes this punch by starting the left arm from the jab position with the palm facing the right, driving the hand out, and circling it in an arc.

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