Expert: Alan Kahn - 2/10/2005

Question
Uh, hi.
I'm a southpaw, and I'm having a little trouble deciding how I ought to box. Should I use the standard southpaw method -- jabbing with the right, power punches with the left?
Or should I lead with the left anyway, to ensure more power and speed to my jabs? They're called the most important punch in the sport, and I'd like mine as fast as possible.  Do you have any advice?

Answer
Hi Phillip,

If you are a southpaw, I would advise you to embrace that. It usually drives the "north" paws crazy, and lots of boxers post on boxing forums asking how to fight a southpaw. There is NOTHING wrong with it.

On the other hand, IF you are willing to consider changing, then I would say go ahead and TRAIN for that. Get proficient either way. Imagine having an opposite "clone"! you will have double the ring arsenal. Many martial artists purposely train "south" and "north" to be comfortable from either stance.  It is not that hard, and the weakness in this switch will be your power right punch ( back at your jaw ).

Get in the opposite or "normal" stance, and train it to death until you can throw a strong, effective straight Right and Cross with power and comfort. Make yourself do this, three of four sets of 30-50 punches each workout. Start them slow to get the proper technique. fire it straight, with telegraphing it.
You won't really have to worry about your left. It will be sweet from either position. You right will hold you back.

Practice clean footwork, and make the switch moving sideways, forward and back. It should be effortless, and in one quick move, you have changed you stance.    

Get your power right fist, clean up the switching footwork, and thoroughly confuse your opponents, changing at will during your match.

I hope that answers your question. good luck in your training and don't hesitate to ask again if you think I can help you.

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible