Page 30 - Doug Werner Boxer's Start-Up

Chapter Four:

Basic Punches

Make a Fist
You’ll probably get it right the first time you try except
for one thing. For the record, the thumb rests below the
tucked in fingers, not curled
inside,but then you knew that.
What you might not know is
that the fist is not clenched
until just before point of
impact. Hands are held loose
in readiness (like everything
else) --- even on the way to the
target. Ideally the fist tightens as it lands and immedi-
ately relaxes as it’s pulled back. You don’t use energy
until you need it. And that’s a law that underlines every-
thing you do in boxing.

Note for Southpaws
For convenience,most of the book will focus on instruc-
tion for right-handed or left-foot-forward readers. If
you’re left-handed or prefer to box with the right foot
forward, reverse the instructions where applicable.

Jab
Meet the most important punch in boxing --- the one
you’ll use the most in your boxing career, whether
you’re fighting for fitness or glory.

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