Question posted by “Elliott”:

 

Hey Mike,

I need some advice on Asskicking, and since you seem to be a great source of knowledge on the subject, I’ve come to you looking for some help. 

 

I’m naturally right handed, but I fight leading with my left.  The other day, I was sparing with some guy in a basement and realized that I was only really using my left hand to throw most of my punches, (jabs, crosses, a few shitty hooks, etc.).  It was very awkward for me to throw my right hand.  I still did it, but it was clumsy and lacked power- especially when I threw combos.

Have you ever had a problem like that?  If so, how did you fix it?

 

 

My response:

 

Elliott,

 

If you’re right handed, but you fight with your left hand out in front, then you fight like most boxers.  Yours is an interesting dilemma, however, since you seem to PREFER your left hand, while having trouble with your right, (it’s usually the other way around).

 

That’s weird, but not unheard of.  Punching isn’t exactly a “natural” human activity; in fact, good linear punching goes AGAINST the way most animals attack.

 

If you’ve ever watched Discovery Channel, lions, gorillas, bears, wolves, etc., “hit” at each other with wide swatting motions- like a pimp slap.  We’re no different, which is why the #1 punch employed by non-trained fighters is the “haymaker”… a big looping swing thrown off the rear. 

 

The point is, technical punching is tough to learn off EITHER side, and the only way to get good at it, is to practice, practice, practice.

 

Okay, so you’re a left lead.  Find a punching bag, (or someone to hold focus mitts for you), get in a good stance, and then do static repetitions.  For a straight rear hand, (often called a “cross”), the punch begins in your rear ankle.  Since you’re in a left lead, spin your right ankle counterclockwise on the ball of your foot.  This rotation forces your back leg to turn forward, which pivots your hips, which pivots your shoulders.  The resulting torque will “sling shot” your right hand out towards the target.  Make sure to keep your striking elbow in, (don’t let it come up).  Also, lean slightly forward as you hit, thus putting your body weight behind the punch.  And always, always, always, stay as relaxed as possible.

 

Again, do it statically at first, (meaning, you’re not moving around).  You don’t have to hit hard either.  Just do it light and slow until you get the body mechanics down.  Most of the power comes from good hip rotation- NOT from the strength in your arm.

 

Once you’ve done about a million repetitions without moving, then try it while dancing around- thus employing good footwork at the same time.

 

I get the feeling that if you’re throwing both jabs AND crosses with your left hand, then, you’re switching stances, (after all, a jab is thrown off the lead hand, while a cross is thrown off the rear).

 

Pick a lead and stick with it.  Sure, it’s good to train both sides, (right AND left lead), but it’s best to get one side down first.

 

Repetition is the only way to get better at punching. 

 

There are good combos posted throughout the “Ask Mike” section, but the best and simplest one is: lead jab, rear cross… or even: lead jab, rear cross, lead hook.  Whenever one hand is out, the other is up by your temple protecting your head.  Basic boxing here.

 

I can probably go into more detail, but I’d have to know what you currently train.  Just let me know.

 

Take care,

-Mike