In boxing, one of the most fundamental and frequently used punches is the jab. An effective defense against this punch is crucial for success in the ring. But how do you not get hit by a jab?
To avoid getting hit by a jab, employ various defensive techniques such as footwork, slipping, parrying, changing levels, or smothering. Maintain a proper boxing stance, keeping hands up to protect yourself, and practice with a partner to enhance your reaction time and develop appropriate countermeasures against jabs.
Understanding why you get hit by a jab is crucial to developing better defenses. By recognizing the causes, you can adjust your training and approach to reduce vulnerability. This is what we’ll cover in the next section.
Why You’re Getting Hit With The Jab
In this section, we’ll explore why you might be getting hit by the jab in boxing and some strategies to prevent this. By understanding common errors and learning from them, you can avoid repeating them yourself.
A primary reason for getting hit by the jab is predictability. When jabbing, avoid moving in a straight line, making it easier for your opponent to land their jab simultaneously.
Another mistake is improper rear glove positioning. The rear glove has multiple functions, including blocking middle and side shots and punching. If your rear glove is beside your face, you risk getting jabbed down the middle. Keep your rear glove under or on the right side of your chin for quicker response to multiple tasks.
To prevent getting hit with the jab, ensure that your rear glove is prepared to catch the jab. Make sure not to reach with your rear hand and keep it in a position where it can perform all the jobs required. By doing this, you will be better equipped to react to your opponent’s attacks.
Using feints is essential for avoiding jabs. Feints confuse opponents, making it hard to predict when you’ll throw a jab. Employ various feints, like head, hand, and foot feints, for different situations. Including feints in your strategy keeps opponents guessing and opens opportunities for attacks.
Head movement is also vital for jab defense. Stepping in without moving your head off the centerline risks getting jabbed. Avoid this by slipping outside when jabbing and mixing attacks, targeting the body and head. This unpredictability makes it tough for opponents to land their jab.
Lastly, getting hit by the jab can result from standing in front of an opponent too long. Being stationary and inactive makes you an easy target. Counter this by avoid standing in one spot for more than a second or two. If you’re not actively working (e.g., using feints, jabbing, or throwing combinations), move to a new position.
How to Defend Against The Jab
In this section, we will explore five methods to defend against the jab. To practice these techniques, you’ll need a partner wearing gloves who can deliver a realistic jab.
1. Footwork – Small step back or step to the right
The first defense against the jab involves footwork. Take a half step back or a step to the right as your opponent jabs. This works best when both fighters adopt the orthodox stance. Maintain your boxing stance while moving back or to the right, and take small steps to avoid losing balance.
2. Slip – Inside or outside
The second defense against the jab is slipping, either to the inside or outside. Inside slipping can be risky, as it exposes you to a right cross, so practice slipping both ways. Keep your hands up and slip as your opponent jabs. Be a good partner by throwing realistic jabs that would hit your partner if they don’t slip.
3. Parry
The third defense against the jab is parrying. While effective, beginners may overuse it, allowing experienced fighters to take advantage. To parry a jab, use your right hand to push down on your opponent’s glove as they jab. You can also take a half step back or right while parrying. Avoid reaching too far, as it may expose you to counterattacks.
4. Change levels or duck under
The fourth defense against the jab involves changing levels or ducking under the jab. Change levels by lowering your stance and keeping your hands up, enabling you to dodge the jab without moving your entire body. Be prepared to change levels quickly as your opponent jabs.
5. Smother, Hug, or Clinch
The fifth defense against the jab is smothering, hugging, or clinching your opponent. This technique can be useful when you are overwhelmed by your opponent’s jabs and cannot defend effectively using the other methods.
However, be cautious when smothering as it can lead to headbutts and puts you at greater risk. If you feel overwhelmed, work your way in and grab hold of your opponent to smother their attack. Hold on until the referee breaks you apart.
Practice these five defenses against the jab with a partner who can throw realistic jabs. Determine which technique works best for you and incorporate it into your boxing strategy. Be mindful of the risks associated with each defense method and adjust your approach accordingly. Remember to always maintain your boxing stance and keep your hands up to protect yourself from counterattacks.