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The Six Basic Boxing Punches

    There are two dependent elements in boxing that everyone must be ready to face. One is the physical, where you have to throw punches at your opponent. The other is wit.

    Punches are not thrown randomly like in a wrestling match. This is why trainee boxers must be taken through basic boxing punches. You do not want to be floored in minutes because you invented strikes and combos that cannot work.

    You might think that boxing has no rules. The shock on you is a game of discipline like any other. This is why boxing punches have been named.

    boxing punches names

    Naming is even more important for training purposes. A coach will just shout the name of a punch for you to throw it in a flash without confusion. There are slight variations in common punches depending on coaches or the boxing class. However, an essential formula is commonly followed to ease training.

    Every aspiring champion must learn six boxing punches (right-handed or orthodox).

    Punch nameBoxing punches numbers
    Jab1
    Right Cross or Straight right2
    Left Hook3
    Right Hook4
    Left Uppercut5
    Right Uppercut6
    How are the boxing punching numbered

    Have you noticed something peculiar about the boxing punch numbers? Check again! There are two things to note about the system.

    You use the right hand on all even-numbered punches, while the left hand is used for odd number punches.

    There is a relationship between 1&2, 3&4, 5&6. They are similar shots, but one is thrown using the right hand while the other uses the left. These are simple punching combinations and are good to start with.

    The above two formulas make it easy to memorize and throw, especially during workouts. Pairing the boxing basic punches also makes it easy to train. Mentioning the numbers is easy and quick compared to calling them by name. This allows a team to maximize time and increase their punching speed.

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    What if I am left-handed?

    If the left is your dominant hand then you are a southpaw (and have a southpaw stance), but this should not worry you. The formula turns around to accommodate your left-hand inclination. You will be throwing even numbers with your left hand, while odd numbers will be thrown with the right hand. Your positioning or fighting stance will also be the reverse of a right-handed (orthodox) stance.

    Let’s look at the types of punches in boxing one by one. Learn how to throw punches properly.


    1. Jab

    This is one of the essential straight punches. It plays several roles, including setting up other punches as an offensive kick and a defensive one. It keeps your opponent on edge and is thus thrown continuously. It will also assist you in feeling how far your enemy is for safety and strategic reasons. It will help you cause the other to open or be vulnerable so that you can attack. It is perfect for countering your opponent to enable you to pivot or retreat.

    It is shot in a straight line emanating from the guard position. Other than using your elbow, it is the shoulders that are used to generate power. Relax the hand only to tighten it a millisecond from the impact. It is a quick move to avoid extended vulnerability.

    Learn everything: Beginner’s Guide to the Jab Punch in Boxing


    2. Right Cross or Straight

    This is the perfect knockout punch. You have the additional torque provided by both the shoulders and hip. Because of overextending the arm, you are incredibly vulnerable. It is therefore used as a follow-up to a jab or other hits.

    When throwing it, the upper body is turned towards your fighting opponent. You pivot with your back foot and rotate hips. The arm extends in a coiled spring manner. All this time, guard your chin with your left hand and recoil the hand as fast as possible. After the cross is thrown, the hands should be retracted quickly, and the guard position should resume.

    The cross is also a powerful counter punch targeting the head or the body when the opponent throws a jab. Cross usually follows the jab, the classic 1-2 punch combination. But, we can find it in many other typical boxing combinations. Straight punches are used to quickly damage the opponent’s head or torso.

    Learn more: Proper cross punch techniques


    3. Left hook

    The left hook (lead hook) is loved because of its power and speed. It is useful because the foe is usually within striking distance. It is used for surprises and will throw the entire body by catching the chin. Of course, a hook punch to the body is as powerful. Use it when your opponent has exposed himself.

    It works when you transfer your weight to the left. The weight transfers must be subtle other than swinging all of it. The left foot pivots you back right where you raise your elbow and punch right across with approximately 90 degrees twisted arm. Guard your chin with the right arm and do not overextend.

    Find out more: Guide to left and right hooks


    4. Right hooks

    This is a reversal of the left hook and is a bit challenging because it emanates from your rear side. It is also a bit slow but is best combined with the left and perfect for a close-range attack. The proper boxing technique is that of the left hook that is reversed. Remember not to overextend or be too slow. Protect your chin with the other hand.

    The right hook is a power punch since the whole body is activated. The body rotates to transfer the power from the toes through the core to the right fist. The generated energy is released when the fist reaches the target.

    Learn more: Right & Left Hook Punches for Beginners


    5. Left uppercut

    This is a classic dangerous punch. It is used in response to what your opponent has thrown or during a close-range encounter. It is a perfect knockout punch when it contacts the chin or jaw. When used rapidly, it destabilizes the opponent and takes away his strength. The uppercut throws the opponent off balance. You have to be uptight and very controlled because you are incredibly vulnerable.

    What is required is a slight dip at the waist to the left with a raised back heel and pressure on your front foot. The fist is rotated upward and explodes in sharp movement emanating from the front foot using the right angle. The elbow should be bent sharply, and no extension of the arms. Do not punch too low or too high to avoid overexposure. Speed is of the essence since your challenger can catch you off-guard. Uppercuts are whole body upward motion.


    6. Right uppercut

    Just like the left hook is a reversal of the right hook, the right uppercut reverses the left uppercut. This type of punches is used for destabilizing the body of your antagonist. While at it, you must guard your body against counterpunches. To evade extended exposure and vulnerability, the explosive move should be done at top speed. The transfer of weight is important for maximum impact. Learn it from the video below.


    There are variations in numbering, especially involving the hooks and uppercuts. Other systems give different numbers for jabs on the head and the opponent’s body. There is a danger every time you overextend. Your adversary finds it more comfortable to avoid your punch with the punch ending prematurely. Overextending might also hurt your elbow. Learn from professionals to bypass confusion that could cost you a fight and even endanger your body.

    If you want to work out at home with the help of a punching bag, you should keep the proper boxing form. Also, do not forget about the correct boxing stance and the footwork since they are as crucial as the fundamental punches. For example, don’t forget to bend your knees slightly. Read our beginner boxing tips to learn the basics of boxing.

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    Answers to FAQs

    What is the most powerful punch in boxing?

    Straight, hook, and uppercut on the head are all powerful blows. But, they are only dangerous if the opponent doesn’t protect his face which is rare. So, timing and preparing for the throw is critical. The jabs can also be dangerous in the long run. Although they are weaker, the continuous jabbing reduces the other boxer’s concentration.

    Why do boxers punch when punched?

    That is the counter-attack. When a boxer throws a punch he opens which gives a possibility for the other boxer to hit. That’s why it’s so important to return your hand at maximum speed (defense).

    What are the basic boxing combinations?

    The Jab-Cross (1-2) combination is one of the most effective punch combinations in boxing because it is fast and relatively easy to learn. But, 1-1, 1-2-3, 1-4, 1-6 basic boxing combos are also quite easy to learn for beginner boxers. They are also great for shadowboxing.

    What are the basic boxing moves?

    Besides how to throw the fundamental punches, you need to get familiar with other body movements. The boxing stance with fists to keep the balance. Defensive techniques such as head movement and body moves, head protection, and precise footwork. And, of course, the correct technique for each. A fighter should be good at all if he wants to be successful in this sport.

    Did you like this guide on fundamental boxing punches? Share it with your friends.

    Learn more: How to make punching fist

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    Bucko Imre

    Hi there, I'm Imre. I started boxing when I was 15, but nowadays I hit my old, dirty heavy bag at home (you know, family, business, etc.) I love boxing so much, so I made this blog to help people get started with it (at home).