Combinations
Bait jab, parry, then power jab
FlowLeft jab → Parry → Left jab
Bait jab, parry, then power jab is a combination where you use a bait jab to draw the opponent's counter left jab, send it off line with your right hand, and land the power jab the moment their balance breaks. You draw their counter with nothing but the left jab and turn that counter into your way in. Use it when the opponent is timing counters off your left jab.
| Type | Combinations |
|---|---|
| Notation | 1-1 |
| Number of punches | 2 |
| Footwork and defense | Parry |
| Goals | Techniques Off the Jab, Counterpunching Techniques, Defense-to-Offense Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Bait jab, parry, then power jab: step by step
- Throw the bait jab. Throw it with enough speed and power that the opponent thinks it's a real attack.
- Bring the left hand back quickly and get ready for the counter left jab they send back.
- When their left jab comes back, tap it lightly with your right hand to send it off line.
- The moment their balance breaks, drive a left jab into their open face, harder and more precise than the bait.
Bait jab, parry, then power jab: key points
- The bait jab isn't a light setup punch. It's the speed and power that make it look real that get the opponent to counter.
- Keep the parry to a light tap with your right hand that sends the punch off line. If you only redirect it, your right hand doesn't leave your face and your guard stays intact.
- Aim the power jab at the instant their jab has been knocked off line and their balance breaks. Throw it harder than the bait jab, with a tighter aim.
Bait jab, parry, then power jab: common mistakes
- Throwing the bait jab lightly. The opponent doesn't feel threatened and doesn't counter, so the combination never starts.
- Swatting their jab with a big motion. Your right hand leaves your face, your own balance breaks, and you take their right before you can throw the power punch.
- Leaving a gap after the parry. The opponent recovers their balance and their guard closes over the face that was open.
Bait jab, parry, then power jab: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, throw the bait jab at full speed, then run through the parry with your right hand and the power jab. Check that the power jab is harder than the bait.
- On the heavy bag, land the bait jab solidly, make the parrying motion with your right hand, then land the power jab even harder. Learn the difference in power between the two jabs with your body.
Moves in this technique
Related techniques
By goalTechniques Off the JabCounterpunching TechniquesDefense-to-Offense Techniques
Left and right are written for orthodox (left foot forward). If you're southpaw, swap left and right as you read. How to read the notation
This is Japanese-style boxing: techniques as taught at a boxing gym in Japan. American or Mexican coaches may teach some of them differently.