Side-stepping in boxing does not involve ‘stepping’. Let me rephrase that. If you want to be a boxer that looks like a cross between Frankenstein’s monster and the robot from the TV show Lost in Space, then your side step will be a ‘step’. If you want to side step with laser-like precision and speed then take 90 seconds to watch this video.
This latest video in the 90 Second Boxing Tips series will enable you to get the most out of your side-stepping. You will be able to cut off the ring on your opponent in short, explosive and efficient movements. You will be able to avoid shots and be in the perfect spot to respond with your own counter-bombs!
One of the things that I really like about producing these 90 second boxing tips videos is that I have to get to the point really quickly. The result of this approach is that I condense the information and you get exactly what you need in order to make the skill work for you. This has definitely been the case for the side-stepping video. There is no unnecessary complexity and no needless padding.
Here’s the video:
The Key Elements of Great Side Stepping
The real ‘take away’ lessons in respect of this video are:
- DO NOT ‘step and drag’. It is crucial that you nail the concept of driving off the relevant leg to make the side step quick, smooth and precise. In fact, think of it as a side-glide rather than a side-step.
- DO NOT cross your legs as you move. Maintain your boxing stance and therefor maintain your ability to be fight-effective for every second of every round.
- DO NOT move too far to each side. Be efficient and be in the position to hammer own shots on your opponent.
Spend time practicing this skill as it’s easily one of the most purposeful 90 second boxing tips that I’ll provide to you. Work the side-step, sorry, side-glide, until it becomes second nature, it will bring dividends.
To view a longer and more expansive description of this boxing skill click here.
Questions and comments below and I’ll get back to you.
Cheers
Fran
by 
You’re great! Keep it up.
Thank you!
Thanks Fran,
Very nice and useful video!
Francesco
Thank you Francesco, glad it helped 🙂
Looks like just the sort of thing I want to practice using the Floor-To-Ceiling bag.
In the aba’s us coaches are getting told to teach Cuban footwork : to move forward step (small steps) back then front foot not coming together. Backwards front foot first then back foot. Sideways orthodox to go right,front foot then back front not crossing . Then left ,right foot first then right foot not crossing. Thoughts please
Yes, just had 2 coaches come back from their Level 2 doing the Eastern European stuff (similar to what you describe). I am still coming to terms with it but will definitely work it into our drills. It’s quite a shift for us Brits who are so use to the push/glide. I like the idea of it because you can encourage the boxers to be more stable. I often struggle with some of our boxers to stop that ‘bounciness’ that I think is due to nervousness.
Another good 90 secs Fran, really enjoy the articles on footwork, really important that you move correctly in boxing and the feet are right to maximize power and agility , keep them coming mate and as we spoke about before these 90 sec tutorials fit in very well with the boys attention spans .
Indeed they do, and many more will be coming Mark 😉
Question for you coach. I’ve been trying to improve my footwork, I’ve seen lateral resistance bands advertised by Lonsdale and Sklz. These attach to each ankle and have a thick rubber band of various length that is attached to each ankle. The idea being to discipline yourself so you don’t step too far etc. Have you seen these and would you recommend?
Brilliant work, nice and concise.
As an aside, I heard an interview with Wladimir Klitschko’s trainer a few weeks ago (I can’t remember his name but he was the understudy to Emmanuel Steward and took over after his death) and he stated that Wladimir had been so successful because he was one of the few boxers that could move and punch at the same time! I thought this was a quite thought provoking comment at the time.
With this in mind if I was going to jab while side-stepping would I time the jab to land with the first foot landing to move or the second? Or maybe it doesn’t matter? Thank you.
Hey Thanks Paulie
If I were moving to my dominant side I would throw the jab as I push off the front and off the rear foot for vice versa. The angled side step is a really nice variation too Paulie, there’s an video article on that too.
Excellent maneouvre, I like it. When you get the hang ot it and speed it up to fight speed both feet will move simultaneously rather than one at a time, wouldn’t they?
Yes, absolutely
Great video Fran. You mention side-stepping to avoid a punch. Is this like slipping in that you ‘re unlikely to be able to side-step quickly enough to avoid a particular punch and that this is rather a proactive defence? Thanks.
Go proactive Bill 🙂
Will do 😉 Thanks.
Nice, great concise explanations.
I’d like to see an explanation for the floor markings like Steve. Maybe even a walk through of your great looking Dojo.
Thanks Fran.
Will be sorting that Charles, thanks.
Thanks for the footwork video, it’s the area where I probably need the most work. Would you mind making a video describing all the tape marks on the floor and how to use them for drills?
Hey Steve
I’ll be doing something around that over the coming weeks.
Cheers