The jab
The jab is the first punch you learn and the last one that you will master. It is the most important punch in the boxing tool kit. Practice the jab. Then practice it and practice it!
The jab:
- Keeps an opponent off balance;
- stops your opponent from thinking;
- disguises the back hand;
- is the nearest hand to your opponent and so is the punch they have least time to respond to.
Key points of throwing the jab:
- Starting position: In boxing stance, fists relaxed, back hand tight on your chin, front hand slightly in front of your chin.
- Throw punch in a straight line towards target, ensuring elbow does not rise, rotate fist so palm faces floor and clench six inches before impact.
- Chin should be tucked into leading shoulder, back hand still protecting chin.
- Snap punch back in a straight along the same path back to defensive position in front of your chin.
Boxers to watch
- Thomas Hearns.
- Larry Holmes.
- Muhammad Ali.
- Sugar Ray Leonard.
- Joe Louis.
The Hitman torments the shorter Roberto Duran with his rapier jab in 1984 setting up a vicious backhand right that settles the argument:
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How about Sonny Liston, Les? Orthodox – Converted from a southpaw. Lethal left jab.
i would say the jab should be practised day and night.. Its a shot u can start any combination from.. Even using faints to the head will give you plenty time to hit severe body shots. Distractions and timing means everything in boxing.. And by mastering the jab it will give you every oppertunity to hit exposed areas easier. Try doubles and trebles for faster hand speed.