Expert: Alan Kahn - 2/17/2008

Question
I have learne the jap, straight righ/right cross, left hook and left uppercut. Im a righty to the point where my left side if less than half efficvient. Ive seen boxers throw hooks with there right even if they have theyre left foot forward, same with the hook. Is this a diffrent punch? Also, I noticed that boxers never change what there leading foot is, is it unheard of to switch postions or do you have to stay in the same "left foot forward stance. I just need to learn a way to take advantage of the power of my torque from the right handed side of my body. (i also am trtying to improve the ccordination of the left hook but i feel there is a punch Im not aware of that I would benifit from that is thrown with the right, not the left, it feels stronger and more natural)
Thanks a bunch

Answer
Hello Tommy,

A well trained boxer can throw a hook punch with either hand, regardless of which foot is leading. The only difference is the force of the pivot and weight shift, which comes from the same foot as the hand is throwing. For a right hook, the right foot pivots to allow the right arm to come across, and your weight should be on the right foot to add power and balance. Practice doing either left or right hook moving in any direction during your shadow boxing in front of a mirror.

Many boxers chance stance and lead foot during a bout. Not every trainer likes that, but martial artists do it all the time, training to fight with either arm or leg forward. Why not boxers?  The only difference is, you HAVE to practice both sides equally, but you will always favor your dominant side. Train on fight that way, shadow boxing and do heavybag work with either leg forward and see how it feels.  

Good luck and trust your training.  I hope this helps you.

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The speed bag bible