Defense and footwork
L-step
L-step
FlowL-step
The L-step is close-range footwork where you pull your front foot back toward your back foot and then move out to the side, tracing an L on the floor. You use it to get around beside or behind the opponent. It puts you in a position where only you can punch before the opponent turns to face you, so you go straight into your attack from there.
| Type | Defense and footwork |
|---|---|
| Footwork and defense | L-step |
| Goals | Footwork Techniques, Angle Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
L-step: step by step
- Set your stance close to the opponent.
- Pull your front foot back toward your back foot.
- From there, move out to the side.
- Reset your stance when you come out beside the opponent.
L-step: key points
- Your feet trace an L. First pull back in a straight line, then move out to the side.
- Aim for beside or behind the opponent. Until they turn to face you, you're in a position to punch.
- Don't leave a gap between pulling your foot back and moving out to the side.
L-step: common mistakes
- Moving to the side right away without pulling your front foot back. You only shift sideways while still in front of the opponent, and you don't get beside them.
- Pausing between pulling back and moving out to the side. The opponent reads the move and turns to face where you're going.
- Not setting your stance after moving out. Even though you got around, you can't punch, and you give the opponent time to turn and face you.
L-step: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, picture close range, pull your front foot back, move out to the side, then throw a one-two. Repeat the flow.
- On the heavy bag, stand right in front of the bag, use the L-step to get around to its side, then punch.
- In front of a mirror, check that your footwork forms an L, pulling back first and then moving out to the side, and that your stance is set after you come out.
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.