Expert: Lian Shoemake - 8/24/2005

Question
I was told by some guy that the quickest route between two
points is a straight line.  I.e, a punch straight down the middle.  I
am fond of throwing hooks (I am as quick left or right), but seem
to get rocked before delivering the blow.  My dad has a longer
reach than I do, but I know there is a way around it.  Thoughts?  

Answer
Hi Cameron,

Thanks for the question.

First off, the person who provided you with the perspective on the quickest route between two points is correct.
Therefore, a good straigh jab will reach your opponent before his hook reaches you if both punches are thrown simultaneoulsy, and there is not a significant disparity in handspeed.
I'm not familiar with your level of boxing expertise, but you should be leading with your jab anyway; it truly is the best offensive and defensive weapon in the sport, when used properly. Using a good jab would not diminish your ability to use the hooks of which you are so fond. On the contrary, setting up your hooks with a good, straight jab will enhance your ability to land those hooks. However, consider that all of this is contingent upon the relative abilities of the two boxers involved.
In your case, it seems like the opponent is a relative: your father.

There are a few potential avenues of success you might want to explore when facing a father who would attempt to beat up his son.
One is, that since he's not willing to "pick on someone his own size," he probably has psychological, physical and spiritual deficiencies that could be exploited in a boxing match.
For time's sake, let's focus on the physical.
My guess is that your father is eager to win, but feels unable to compete physically with peers, so he beats on you.
His fear of peer combat probably eminates from physical deficiencies or deformities, or both. I'd check for things like non-existent or limited lateral movement due to weakness or injury to lower extremities...possibly ankles or pinky toes.
There's a good chance that even his hands may not be normal...look for grotesque or misshapen knuckles.

Beyond that, if you're interested in psychological combat, your father may have phobias that can be exploited. Wear a t-shirt with a picture of a spider or an African-American man on it and see if he becomes distracted, or quits altogether.

If all else fails Cameron, write back and I'll kick your father's ass for you.
It would be my pleasure, and I'm sure he deserves it.

I hope this is helpful!
Thanks again for writing.

Regards,
Lian