Expert: Jack Rose - 6/23/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I've just started a boxing group this year. I coach a small group of guys on how to box.
HOwever, I'm not much of a boxer myself. I love the sport and I love learning, but I haven't competed or anything.

I have been teaching them (and myself) the basics that I learn off Youtube.com

My question to you is?

What are 5 or 10 common mistakes that boxers make?

for eg dropping their guard after punching. etc

I just want to make sure my boys aren't doing something obviously wrong that an experiencedfighter will notice straight away.

ANSWER: Polu,

You have already mentioned the number one:

1. Dropping your hands
2. Wrong foot position upon setting up ( feet should be at a 3/4 angle rather than directly behind one another)
3. Knees not bent
4. Hump in the back (back should be straight)
5. Chin not down
6. Not turning on righthand (assuming boxer is a righty)
7. Not turning on the hook
8. Bending at the waist instead of the knees when ducking
9. not moving your head
10. crossing your feet while moving

Just named the most chronic issues right off the top of my head.
Hope this helps.

good luck

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Great thanks for that.
Yep I've taught them most of those except for number 4)... What is the 'hump' in the back about and why should the back be straight?

also why is it important to bend at the knees instead of the waist?

Thanks heaps for the advice and thanks for replying so quickly.

Polu

Answer
If you have a hump in your back you are leaning forward which makes you easier to hit. Your weight should be back and he should use his feet to get close instead of leaning forward.

You bend at your knees so you can still see your opponent when you duck. It also puts you into a more powerful counterpunching position since you are using your legs to raise back up instead of your back.
Lastly, if your head leans over in front of your knees it is a foul and the referee will warn you for "leading with your head".

thanks, good luck