Western Boxing Weapons

Boxing techniques utilize very forceful strikes with the hand. There are many bones in the hand, and striking without proper technique can cause serious injuries. Today boxers train and spar with protective wraps and gloves.

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Boxers use the following "weapons" in the sport

Punches:

Jab - A quick, straight punch thrown with the lead hand from the guard position. The jab is accompanied by a small rotation of the torso and hips. The fist becomes horizontal upon impact. As the punch reaches full extension, the lead shoulder is brought up to guard the chin. The rear hand remains close to the face to protect the jaw. After the punch the lead hand is retracted quickly to resume a guard position in front of the face. The jab is the most important punch in a boxer's arsenal. It provides its own cover and it leaves only a small space for an opponents counterpunch. It has the longest reach of any punch and does not require commitment or large weight transfers. It is used as a tool to gauge distances, probe an opponent's defenses, and set up heavier, more powerful punches. A half-step may be added, moving the entire body into the punch, for additional power.

Cross - A powerful straight punch thrown with the rear hand. From the guard position, the rear hand is thrown from the chin. The rear shoulder is thrust forward and finishes just touching the outside of the chin. At the same time, the lead hand is retracted and raised to protect the chin. For additional power, the torso and hips rotate as the cross is thrown. Weight is also transferred from the rear to the lead foot. Body rotation and weight transfer gives the cross its power. After the cross is thrown, the hand is retracted quickly into the guard position. The cross can follow a jab, creating the classic one-two combination. The cross is also called a straight or right.

Hook - A semi-circular punch thrown with the lead hand to the side of the opponent's head. From the guard position, the elbow is drawn back with a horizontal fist (knuckles pointing forward) and the elbow bent. The rear hand is tucked against the jaw to protect the chin. The torso and hips are rotated , propelling the fist through a tight, arc across the front of the body and connecting with the target. At the same time, the lead foot pivots, turning the left heel outwards. Following contact the lead hand is quickly returned to the guard position. The hook may also be thrown with the rear hand.

Uppercut - A vertical, rising punch thrown with the rear hand. From the guard position, the torso shifts slightly to the right, the rear hand drops below the level of the opponent's chest and the knees are bent slightly. From this position, the rear hand is thrust upwards towards the opponent's chin or torso. At the same time the torso and hips rotate and the rear heel turns outward, as with the cross. The use of the uppercut depends on its ability to lift the opponent off balance before successive attacks.

Boxers also use various footwork and defense techniques in the sport.