Expert: Joe Hofer - 4/9/2007

Question
Mr. Hofer,

    I have a tall and slender body 6'3, 193lbs., I plan to drop to the 175 or maybe even 165 area without losing power.  I have always been told from middleweights to super heavy weights, that I have a hellified right(cross and hook).  I saw Thomas Hearns using the "flicker jab".  I have a similar body type, and an extreemly flexible shoulder and elbow(not because of it being broke before or anything, it's natural).  I think that if I could incorporate a flicker as fast and accurate as he did, it would be a great asset to my style and arsenal.  Also, he not only executed a great flicker but he also had quick slipping and weaving skills not just prior but during and after the attack.  What would be some good exercises to increase speed and mobility with that.  Also, I was wondering what would help me to find my distance better.  Thank you very much for your time.

Answer
The double end bag is a great tool to develope speed and can also be used for slipping.  The maize ball, or slip ball, however you want to call it is for slipping skills.  Your fighting distance is to stand in the position and put your fist on someones shoulder then take a half step back and this would be a normal fight distance.  It may seem far but you can hit from this distance easily.

Thanks,

Joe