Fundamentals
Make both the jab and the cross a threat
Both a threat
If the opponent reads that either the left jab or the right cross in your one-two isn't really coming, they can focus only on avoiding the other one. Throw both with intent to land so they have to watch for each. If you make either one just for show, the whole one-two gets easier to read. The same goes when you practice punching at reduced power.
| Type | Fundamentals |
|---|---|
| Goals | One-Two Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Make both the jab and the cross a threat: how to do it
- Throw the left jab with intent to land. Don't make it a light punch that's only for show.
- Throw the right cross that follows with the same intent to land.
- Even when you hold back your power, keep your aim fully serious.
Make both the jab and the cross a threat: key points
- If they think one of the two isn't coming, the opponent can concentrate on dealing with the other.
- Put intent to land into both the left and the right.
- This is separate from holding your power to 70%. Even at 70% power, if you mean to land, you can look like a threat.
Make both the jab and the cross a threat: common mistakes
- Throwing the left jab just for form. The opponent stops worrying about the left and just works on making the right cross miss.
- Throwing the left jab with no intention of throwing the right cross. The opponent only has to avoid the left jab.
Make both the jab and the cross a threat: how to practice
- When you throw the one-two in shadowboxing, decide where each punch is going before you throw it.
- On the heavy bag, decide where both the left jab and the right cross will land. Check that your aim doesn't waver even when you reduce your power.
Related techniques
By goalOne-Two 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.