Defense and footwork
Angled step-in
Angled step-in
FlowAngled step-in
The angled step-in is how you step in when you close the distance to attack. By stepping in at an angle instead of straight to the side, you get closer while getting off the opponent's front. Use it together with a pawing jab: after the step, turn slightly to rebuild your stance, then throw the power punch as you turn back to face the opponent.
| Type | Defense and footwork |
|---|---|
| Footwork and defense | Angled step-in |
| Goals | Footwork Techniques, Angle Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Angled step-in: step by step
- Throw a pawing jab.
- At the same time as the left jab, step your front foot in at an angle.
- Bring your back foot up and stand in a position off the opponent's front.
- Pivot slightly as part of the step-in and rebuild your stance.
- Throw the power punch as you turn back to face the opponent.
Angled step-in: key points
- When you go in to attack, don't move straight to the side. Stepping in at an angle lets you close the distance and get off the opponent's front at once.
- Throw the left jab at the same moment as the step-in, and hide your entry behind the pawing jab.
- Rebuild your stance with a slight pivot, then throw the power punch as you turn back to face the opponent.
Angled step-in: common mistakes
- Moving straight to the side. The distance doesn't close and your power punch doesn't reach.
- Stepping in without the left jab. The opponent sees the step-in and hits you as you come in.
- Punching without rebuilding your stance. You end up punching with just your arm from the angled position, and there's no weight behind the power punch.
Angled step-in: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, step in at an angle with a pawing jab, pivot slightly, and throw the power punch as you turn back to face forward. Repeat the flow.
- On the heavy bag, step in at an angle to a spot slightly off the front of the bag, rebuild your stance, then punch.
Combinations that use this move
Related techniques
By goalFootwork TechniquesAngle 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.