Expert: Jack Rose - 2/4/2007

Question
Hi, im a big, athletic guy (320 lbs)19 years old, and little experience. Im interested in boxing and have my own bag, gloves, wraps, but thats it.  I wonder if you could tell me the best techniques, andstyle of boxing I should use.  I need to be able to use my size and punching power to its fullest potential. If you could give me any pointers on ceratain areas to concentrate on, and areas i should steer clear of, it would be much appreciated.

Answer
Hi Jacob,  this is a good question....
You should embark your size and strength upon guys. Make them feel your size advantage. You should train to put pressure on guys and make them back up. You need to initiate the action. Work on keeping your jab busy. Don't worry about connecting everytime, for you it's a tool to keep the guy on his heels so when you unload the righthand and hook your forcing him to feel your power, he's off balance and has no leverage. There is one other thing you need to know, be sure you keep your hands up after you throw and work on moving your head side to side in front of the mirror. Since you'll be the aggressor most guy's only hope will be to counterpunch and try to box you. Keep your hands up and just block with your gloves, with your size it would be unnecessary and use too much energy to be up on your toes. Also, focus on your inside combos and keep them short and sweet. Work on the lefthook on the bag, get real close to the bag and keep the punch short but powerful. Get your body behind all your inside stuff and use your size. No big swings, short tight punches with body rotation. You need to do some brag drills at the end of your workouts, nonstop punching (1-2-1-2 etc...) for 30 seconds....with your size it will be harder to keep your hands up late in the rounds unless you get your shoulders and arms used to this....

thanks for the question and best of luck,

jack