Expert: Alan Kahn - 1/11/2010

Question
I am 16 years old and a male my height is 5"8 and most of my sparring partners are 6 foot they use there reach against me and for my height i don't have long reach. i have got a quick snappy jab but struggle to do any damage to my opponents because of little power. I am medium fast but my power is very little. can you tell me how to throw punches in bunches a bit like meldrick Taylor because i have the speed but need to throw many punches to deliver any form of damage.

Answer
Hi Muz,

Your question is basically, "how to throw punches in bunches" (like Medrick Taylor) and the only answer I could give is: Train that way. ON every bag you use, Heavy bag, double end bag, speed bag, mitts etcetera, DO THAT. Work out some four, five and six punching combinations that you really like and flow well for you, say like  L-Jab, L-jab, R-Cross, L-Hook, R-hook, L-upper cut. That is six punches. work on doing them SLOW with perfect form, and build up your speed. work on doing them moving left, moving right, moving forward and moving back. You are looking to find Your balance point in each movement to put good form plus balanced power into the motion. You can alter this combo in many way.  by doing the first three only, or the middle three or the last three, or the middle four punches etc.  The point is the flow will become natural to you moving in any direction.  You don't have to use this particular combo.  Work with your coach to find your best combinations, or make up some of your own favorites.  

Also, work on general hand and foot speed activities.  YOu don want to throw punches in punches but you would also like to throw them as fast as possible, so speed work will be very helpful.  
Don't necessarily worry about the power you delive in any one punch, since you say you are not a "power puncher" the key for you is scoring points and putting your opponent on the defensive by out punching him.

I hope this helps and good luck in your training.

sincerely

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible