Counterpunching with the Block!

About Blocking the Jab

The skill described in this article is the ultimate defensive ‘reactive’ skill and opens up the world of counterpunching.

If you have checked out the articles on slipping punches, bobbing and weaving or ducking then you will know that those skills when used in defense setting are not in response to an incoming shot but more as an evasive action to avoid being hit.  They are proactive defenses.

Blocking a punch however is a reactive defense.  It is a direct response to a specific action by the opponent, in this case an incoming jab.

This is a key difference that must be understood and is why blocking an opponent’s jab is such a fundamental aspect of successful counterpunching.

So why is blocking an opponent’s jab such a good platform for counterpunching?

Here’s a few reasons:

• It’s an extremely efficient defensive action using little energy.
• It’s an assertive defense, providing the dominant position to go ‘on the attack.’
• Having blocked an opponent’s jab, it stands to reason that you are in range to respond successfully with your own shot.

In short, if you want to be a counterpunching genius, then learning to successfully block an opponent’s jab is an absolute must.

Watch the video, then leave a comment below.

The Mechanics of Blocking the Jab

The description here assumes an orthodox versus an orthodox.  It is the back hand (right hand) that blocks the incoming jab.

The mechanics of blocking an incoming jab are:

1. The first move is a push from the back foot.  This push from the back foot provides the drive to rotate the hips and upper body in a counter-clockwise direction.
2. The back hand (right hand) moves between 3 and 5 inches and at the same time the wrist rotates 90 degrees in a clockwise direction.
3. The palm opens to ‘catch’ the incoming jab.
4. After blocking the shot, the hand returns instantly to the ‘home’ position.

Common Faults When Blocking the Jab

The key faults that occur when a boxer attempts to block an opponent’s jab are:

1. Don’t ‘reach’ for the incoming shot.  Ensure that the hand moves no more than 3 to 5 inches away from the ‘home’ position otherwise a large gap will be left in your own defense.
2. Don’t let the block become an ‘arm only’ action.  If the initial drive is not provided by the back foot pushing (thereby rotating the upper body), then it is highly likely that the arm will not be strong enough to keep out the jab.  Basically, the opponent’s jab will pile through your defense and straight into your face, adding insult to injury.
3. This block is a platform for counterpunching, so make sure you punch back!   A BIG mistake is to successfully block the punch but not take advantage by throwing your own shot.  This is an opportunity wasted and against a high standard of opponent opportunities don’t come along that often.
4. Don’t be slow throwing your counterpunch, it must be instant.  Your own jab should land whilst your opponent’s jab is still in the palm of your hand…yes, really that fast.  The opening created when the opponent punches is very brief so fire instantly.

Enjoy using this skill.  Successfully blocking an opponent’s punch really does open the door for top class counterpunching.

As always, leave a comment below.

Cheers

Fran

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