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Boxing Combinations - Watch Out For Bad Advice!

Boxing Combinations - Let's Put 'Em Together!

It is an interesting fact that when surfing the Web, there are a huge array of videos, posts, articles and websites that promise to teach you how to throw groups of punches, otherwise known as boxing combinations, like a pro.  There seems to be a common theme for many of these resources, and that's the principle of issuing a number for a shot.  An example of this is:

1 - Jab

2 - Straight Right

3 - Left Hook

4 - Right Hook

5 - Left Uppercut

6 - Right Uppercut

I believe that having issued the numbers, the boxer should join them together in random order (or alternatively a coach may shout them) so as to build boxing combinations.  This is not the occasional site that recommends this approach it actually appears to be very common, go see for yourself!  Now look, I understand the principle of a numbering system but I have some big, big problems with it!  Let me give you just a few reasons why I have major issues with this type of system.  I urge you to take the time to go through this article, and if you believe that my concerns have no grounding whatsoever, then ignore me and get memorizing those 6 little ol' numbers!  On the other hand, the content of this article might just kick off some thought processes that alter your approach (and ultimately success rate) when building boxing combinations.

OK, here are the main issues that I have with the various numbering systems out there:

• The implication of issuing a number for each shot is that there are only 6 shots in boxing.  At time of writing, I have published advice on 17 shots…and there are more to come!  If you can apply AND remember a number for every one of our shots so far, then my guess is that you're now reading this article from the canteen at the Kennedy Space Center preparing for your next Shuttle mission (you clever thing you!)
• What about body shots?  I think we may need yet more numbers…..
• What about executing ‘phased combinations', where we sub-divide groups of shots into smaller groups by inserting body movements such as the slip or duck or elements of footwork such as a side movement or pivot?  This is a core principle of successful combinations!  By now, we have that many numbers that for all use they are we might as well be issuing Roman Numerals to shots!

Can you see how complicated (and unworkable) things gquickly become by restricting your thoughts by applying a rigid numbering system to combinations?  It stifles creativity.  It forces you to think in linear, predictable patterns.  My advice? Ignore the numbering system advice given by these sites (I won't name them, but you know who you are!)  Don't apply a numbering system.  Whilst the number system advice is issued in good faith, it's not helpful and should be ignored!

Don't Just Criticize Others, Tell Me How I Should Do it!

'Sure' you might be saying, 'it's easy to criticize, but where's your approach???'  Well, what I'm not going to do here is say ‘Here are my Top 10 Combinations', go ahead copy them like a robot.  On the MyBoxingCoach site, I offer suggestions for boxing combinations that work well, but for now I think it will be much more helpful if I recommend some things for you to consider when looking to build sucessful boxing combinations:

• An opponent will respond in a particular way to a shot (or threat of a shot.)  For example, the threat of a right cross to the body may make an opponent drop their left elbow to block the shot thereby leaving the left side of their jaw open.
• At what range are you?  If you are at long range, then the opening shots of a combination will be different than if you are infighting at short range.
• The bio-mechanics of a given shot, body movement or footwork element naturally leads you to consider a particular subsequent shot.   An example of this is that an inside slip provides great leverage for a mid range left hook.  It feels natural for a right cross to follow a jab.  Be fully aware of this urge to follow the bio-mechanics, but mix things up by going ‘against the grain' as well.  Doubling-up on the same shot is a prime example of this as the second shot can carry more power than the first.
• Don't restrict yourself to thinking of combinations in terms of just shots.  The chances of creating successful boxing combinations will be greatly increased by aiming to ‘join up' shots with body movements, footwork and feints…be dynamic!
• Learn the individual skill element (e.g. the punch) and ensure that the mechanics are correct and that the common faults are not creeping in.  Use the mirror so that you can be your own coach!  If you perform each skill element correctly, then it stands to reason that the combination will be correct!

There are lots of suggested boxing combinations on the MyBoxingCoach Website, along with an explanation of why they are effective and what to be careful of when using them, so waste no time and check them out!

Building Successful Boxing Combinations

On a final note, I hope I'm not coming across as bad-mouthing these sites, I'm just eager that as an individual you have options that you may select based upon sound reasoning.  Boxing is a highly technical sport that requires a basic framework of learning upon which a creative mind may build a whole range of effective boxing combinations.  In the words of the great Angelo Dundee, "Come on kid, let's put 'em together!"

Building Successful Boxing Combinations

About the Author

I've been involved in boxing for over 30 years, 15 as a competitor and the same as a coach.  I have been curious for quite some time as to whether I could create a unique resource on the Web; a blog that can provide a structured framework for learning how to box.  From throwing the perfect boxing jab, to slipping punches to nailing the ideal boxing stance.  Added to this, I explain the core aspects of boxing fitness including using the heavy bag, skipping rope and sparring.  My blog continues to grow in popularity and is helping interested people all over the world!