Fundamentals
Keep your head moving
Move your head
When your head stays fixed in one place, it's easy for the opponent to aim. The more your head shifts position, the harder it is for them to line you up. Whether you're in your stance or punching, don't keep your head in the same place. This is a basic to revisit when you keep getting hit by jabs and crosses in a row.
| Type | Fundamentals |
|---|---|
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Keep your head moving: how to do it
- While you're in your stance, keep moving your head in small amounts using your knees and upper body.
- When you punch too, don't leave your head at the end of the punch in the same place as before it.
- Don't keep your head on the line straight in front of the opponent. Shift it to the left or right.
Keep your head moving: key points
- If your head is still, all the opponent has to do is aim there.
- The more your head shifts, the harder it is for the opponent to take aim.
- You don't need to move it a lot. Not leaving it in one place comes first.
Keep your head moving: common mistakes
- Focusing on punching and letting your head get stuck in one place. The opponent lines you up and you get hit with straight punches.
- Swinging only your head around in big movements. You lose your balance and can't go into your next punch or defense.
Keep your head moving: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, each time you throw a jab or a one-two, check that your head is in a different place at the end of the punch than before it.
- In front of the heavy bag, shift your head left or right between punches, then punch. Keep your head moving while you're punching too.
Related 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.