Fundamentals
Don't let your shoulder lead the rotation
Rotation first
Not letting your shoulder lead means punching so your shoulder doesn't lunge ahead of your core rotation. When the shoulder goes first, the angle of your fist opens up, power leaks out, and your wrist, elbow and shoulder are more likely to take the strain. It's an easy mistake on punches thrown from below, such as the left body uppercut, so punch in this order: rotation first, then push with your hand last.
| Type | Fundamentals |
|---|---|
| Goals | Body Punching Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Don't let your shoulder lead the rotation: how to do it
- Start turning your core from your lower body. At this point, leave your shoulder where it is in your guard.
- Carry your fist to the target with your shoulder and arm following your core rotation.
- At impact, finish by pushing through with your hand.
- Once you push, bring your fist straight back to your guard. Bringing it back is part of the same motion.
Don't let your shoulder lead the rotation: key points
- The order is core rotation first, shoulder and arm after.
- When your shoulder lunges forward, the angle of your fist opens up and power leaks out.
- Do the final push with your hand, and make bringing it back part of one continuous motion.
Don't let your shoulder lead the rotation: common mistakes
- You lunge with your shoulder trying to hit hard. Then the angle opens up, power leaks out, and your wrist, elbow and shoulder take the strain.
- You leave your fist out after pushing. Then your next move is late and they target you as you finish.
Don't let your shoulder lead the rotation: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, turn your hips and torso slowly and punch while checking in a mirror that your shoulder doesn't get ahead of the rotation.
- On the heavy bag, throw light left body uppercuts and check one punch at a time that the order of rotate, push, bring back holds.
Related techniques
By goalBody Punching 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.