Combinations
Simultaneous right cross counter (shoulder switch)
FlowHead off line and Right cross at the same time
Simultaneous right cross counter (shoulder switch) means moving your head slightly to the left as the opponent punches and throwing a right cross by turning your right shoulder ahead of your left. The shoulder switch extends your reach and, at the same time, takes your head off the line of their attack. Because the punch itself is also your defense, use it when you and the opponent are punching at the same time.
| Type | Combinations |
|---|---|
| Notation | 2 |
| Number of punches | 1 |
| Footwork and defense | Head off line |
| Goals | Counterpunching Techniques, Defense-to-Offense Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Simultaneous right cross counter (shoulder switch): step by step
- Watch for the start of the opponent's punch.
- Move your head slightly to the left to get it off the line of their attack.
- Grip the floor hard with your back foot and push power up as if pushing the floor away.
- Turn your right shoulder ahead of your left as if switching them, and throw the right cross.
- When you finish, return to your guard.
Simultaneous right cross counter (shoulder switch): key points
- Switching your right shoulder forward lets the right cross reach farther. The same motion takes your head off the line, so punching and defending become one action.
- Move your head only slightly to the left. A big move makes the path of the right cross wobble.
- Grip the floor with your back foot and push off. Use the power coming up from your foot to switch your shoulders.
Simultaneous right cross counter (shoulder switch): common mistakes
- Just extending the arm without switching the shoulders. You don't reach far enough, and your head stays on the line of their attack.
- Letting your back heel come up so you lose your base. You can't use the push off the floor, and there's no weight behind the right cross.
Simultaneous right cross counter (shoulder switch): how to practice
- In shadowboxing, repeat throwing a right cross by moving your head slightly left and switching your right shoulder forward. Use a mirror to check that at the end of the punch your head is off its starting spot.
- On the heavy bag, feel your back foot pushing the floor while you move your head and switch your shoulders at the same time, and drive in the right cross.
Moves in this technique
Related techniques
By goalCounterpunching 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.