The jab is often considered to be the most important punch in boxing, but why is this?
The jab is the most important punch because it lands most frequently due to the lead hand having a shorter distance to travel. A boxer can also set up power punches using in the jab.
This makes the jab hard to avoid as it will land so quickly. A good boxer will have a very relaxed and speedy jab which will be hard to read by the opponent.
The jab can also be used as a defensive move to keep an opponent at bay and to score points.
A jab can be thrown as a quick stinging shot with little power. For example the boxer can throw the shot without clenthcing their fist to help keep the arm relaxed, this allows the jab to travel with speed but wont cause as much damage upon impact. Think of whipping a towel
A Power Jab
A jab can be thrown as a stiff power shot to snap the opponent’s headgear back and score points and even hurt the opponent. To throw a jab this way the boxer will need to put their shoulder into the shot and clench their fist upon impact and use the bodyweight to really drive through the opponent’s head.
The up jab
The up jab as its known is a type of jab that the boxer throws with their lead arm hanging down by their side, for this reason, the jab is hard to read as it travels upwards and outside the opponent’s eye line. This can give an element of surprise. This is why you will see many boxers with a low hanging lead hand.
The Step Jab
A step jab is a jab that the boxer throws after taking a small step forward with their lead foot. This can be used to increase the power of the shot and also to close the distance between you and your opponent.
The Double Jab
The double jab is another variation on the standard jab, in which you throw two quick jabs in succession. This can be used to score points or to set up a power shot, such as a cross.
Why is the jab thrown most often by boxers?
The jab is thrown most often because it is the easiest punch to land as it has the shortest distance to travel. In terms of risk and reward. It also allows the boxer to keep his shape and take little risk, whilst securing points and expending less energy.
What is the difference between a jab and a cross?
The cross is a punch that is thrown with the rear hand, whereas the jab is thrown with the lead hand. The cross is typically a more powerful punch than the jab, as it utilises the body weight more effectively. It also has a longer distance to travel, which can make it harder to land.
How can you use the jab to set up a power shot?
The jab can be used to set up a power shot, such as a cross, by using it to create an opening in your opponent’s defence. A well-placed jab will make the opponent lower his guard, allowing you to follow up with a more powerful punch.
The jab is also effective in setting up body shots, as it can be used to target the solar plexus or ribs.
What are the benefits of a good jab?
A good jab can be used to score points, to keep an opponent at bay, and to set up power shots. It is also useful in defence, as it can be used to block punches and create space.
What is the best way to defend against a jab?
The best way to defend against the jab is firstly by using the feet and maintaining distance from the opponent. If this fails then hand defences such as the block and parry are a good option along with good head movement such as slips, ducks and rolls.
How can southpaws use the jab?
Southpaws can use the jab to control a fight by jabbing over the top of their opponent’s lead hand. They can combine this with a slight rock to the right keeping away from their opponent’s read hand and lining the opponent up for their own rear head power show.
How can I practice the jab?
You can practice the jab using a good heavy bag. Stand in front of the bag and first ensure your stance is correct your hands are in the correct position and your chin is down. Using the rear hand extend the glove to the bag and make sure to turn your knuckles over to create the snap effect. You should also ensure your non-punching hand or rear hand is glued to your chin. As you punch exhale sharply. You can also practice the jab on a focus mitt or with a partner holding up their hands. Remember to keep the same principles in mind when practising on the bag, ensure your stance is correct, drive through with the punch and exhale sharply.
Conclusion
As you can see, the jab is a very versatile punch that can be used in many different ways. It is the most important punch in boxing because it is the most likely to land and can be used to set up other punches. Use the jab to control the fight and score points.
