Fundamentals
Lean forward into a power jab
Lean into jab
The left jab you use to measure distance is thrown with your weight kept on your back foot. But when you want the jab to do damage, it's fine to lean forward into it. If your weight doesn't move forward, there's no power in the jab. Use this when you want the jab itself to hurt the opponent, not just measure distance.
| Type | Fundamentals |
|---|---|
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Lean forward into a power jab: how to do it
- Throw the range-finding left jab with your weight kept on your back foot.
- When you want to do damage, shift your weight forward with the jab.
- When you throw the right cross, don't lean forward. Keep your weight back.
Lean forward into a power jab: key points
- When you throw a power jab, it's fine to lean forward. If you don't, your weight doesn't transfer and there's no power in it.
- Lean forward only when you've decided to throw a power jab. For range-finding jabs, keep your weight on your back foot.
- On the right cross, always keep your weight back. Place your weight differently for the left jab and the right cross.
Lean forward into a power jab: common mistakes
- Wanting to hit hard but just poking with your arm while your weight stays back. The jab is light and the opponent keeps coming forward without worrying about it.
- Carrying the forward lean from the left jab into the right cross. Your weight spills forward, and you're slow to recover and defend.
Lean forward into a power jab: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, alternate light jabs and power jabs. Check that your weight moves forward only on the power jabs.
- On the heavy bag, throw single power left jabs leaning forward, and return to your guard after each one.
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.