Fundamentals
Set your feet, then punch
Set your feet
Set your feet, then punch is about order: you set your feet first, then throw the punch. Punch while you're moving and your axis wobbles, so the punch comes out light. Build the habit of punching the moment your feet stop. The force from pushing off the floor reaches your fist, and you're less likely to walk into their counter.
| Type | Fundamentals |
|---|---|
| Goals | Footwork Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Set your feet, then punch: how to do it
- When you move with your steps, focus only on moving your feet, without throwing punches.
- Stop moving once your front and back feet are on the floor and you're back in your stance.
- The moment your feet are set, push off the floor and throw the punch.
- When you finish punching, start moving with your feet again.
Set your feet, then punch: key points
- Feet first, punch second. Don't let your hands go before your feet are on the floor.
- Setting your feet keeps your axis upright, so the force from pushing off the floor travels through your hips and shoulders into your fist.
- Punch in the middle of moving and your body drifts, turning you into a target for their counter.
Set your feet, then punch: common mistakes
- You throw a punch in the middle of a step. Then your axis wobbles, and even when it lands it's a light punch that only pushes.
- You try to punch on the move and only your upper body goes forward. Then your head stays out front and you're more likely to take their return punch.
Set your feet, then punch: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, repeat it in separate parts: step, set your feet, throw a one-two. Check that your hands go only after your feet are on the floor.
- Move around the heavy bag and throw one punch at a time from where you stop. Use a mirror or video to check that your feet aren't moving as you punch.
Related techniques
By goalFootwork 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.