„We use it as a plan b and to confuse the opponent.“
Hook (click to expand description)
A hook is a semi-circular punch thrown with the lead hand to the side of the opponent’s head.
From the guard position, the elbow is drawn back with a horizontal fist (knuckles pointing forward) and the elbow bent.
The rear hand is tucked firmly against the jaw to protect the chin.
The torso and hips are rotated clockwise, propelling the fist through a tight, clockwise arc across the front of the body and connecting with the target.
At the same time, the lead foot pivots clockwise, turning the left heel outwards.
Upon contact, the hook’s circular path ends abruptly and the lead hand is pulled quickly back into the guard position.
A hook may also target the lower body (the classic Mexican hook to the liver), and this technique is sometimes called the „rip“ to distinguish it from the conventional hook to the head. The hook may also be thrown with the rear hand.
Uppercut (click to expand description)
An uppercut is a vertical, rising punch thrown with the rear hand.
From the guard position, the torso shifts slightly to the right, the rear hand drops below the level of the opponent’s chest and the knees are bent slightly.
From this position, the rear hand is thrust upwards in a rising arc towards the opponent’s chin or torso.
At the same time, the knees push upwards quickly and the torso and hips rotate counter-clockwise and the rear heel turns outward, mimicking the body movement of the cross.
The strategic utility of the uppercut depends on its ability to „lift“ the opponent’s body, setting it off-balance for successive attacks. The right uppercut followed by a left hook is a powerful combination.
These different punching types can be combined to form ‚combos‘, like a jab and cross combo. Nicknamed the one two combo, it is a really effective combination because the jab blinds the opponent and the cross is powerful enough to knock the opponent out.
Practise:
Demonstrate, depending on how far you are away from your opponent, the type of hook or uppercut you would throw. Emphasize that these two punches are less about punching and more about turning your body and torso correctly.
Full distance from opponent: 180-degree full arm hook
Medium distance from opponent: 90-degree hook
In fighting (very close to the opponent): hooks to the body or uppercuts
Let the boxers practice in pairs
Then, once participants understand these two punches, demonstrate ways to defend against them. Keeping the guard firm.
