Basic skills of Boxing Game

Box clever with our basic boxing skills guide including including tips on stance, footwork, punching and other boxing techniques.

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When starting out, boxers will usually first be taught how to fight at a distance, also known as ‘outfighting’, rather than getting in close where they are more likely to be hit. The skills used here include arm's-length punches and quick footwork to enable them to deliver a blow before their opponent can respond. It is the best way to tire out and attack an opponent, and lessens their chance of a counterattack.

The basic skills of boxing
The following boxing techniques are described for right-handed boxers (if you are a left-handed or a ‘southpaw’ boxer then use the opposite arm or leg to what is being described).

Good boxing stance
The importance of a good stance cannot be stressed enough. A good stance provides balance, and is a key to both attacking and defensive techniques.

Boxers should be able to throw a punch without losing their balance. Being off balance allows an opponent to get in with their own blows. To assume a good boxing stance, you need to do the following:

Stand sideways to the target, so that you lead with the shoulder opposite that of your strong punching hand. A right-handed boxer should point their left shoulder toward the target.
Feet should be kept shoulder width apart, then step forward one pace with the left foot and line up the heel of your left foot with the toes of your other foot.
Turn both feet at a 45 degree angle to your target. Your weight should be evenly distributed to provide a firm, steady platform.
Bend your knees and hips slightly, keeping your back fairly straight and lift your back heel off the floor, no more than about 7.5cm (3in).
Tuck your elbows in close to your sides and raise your forearms so that they shield the chest.
Hold the left glove out at shoulder height and keep it far enough out to attack, but close enough to draw back quickly in defense.
The right glove should be held underneath the chin with the wrist turned inwards.
The golden rules of boxing footwork
Good footwork is important to enable the boxer to defend or attack from a balanced position. The golden rules of boxing footwork are as follows: