Boxing 101 – 6 Punches You Need to Know

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Boxing isn’t just for fighters—it’s for everyone

Gone are the days when boxing was reserved for the elite or the select few. At Gritbox, we believe boxing is for everyone—no exceptions. And everyone starts somewhere! At some point, everyone at Gritbox walked in clueless—no gloves, no idea what a jab was, and no clue how to throw a punch.

We’re here to break down the basics, build you up, and make sure everyone feels empowered to step into their strength. Because boxing isn’t just a workout—it’s a mindset. Ready to learn the basics? Let’s get started.

6 Basic Punches

🥊 1. Jab

How to Do It: From your boxing stance (dominant foot back, guard up), extend your lead hand straight out while rotating your shoulder slightly forward. Keep your elbow in, fist tight, and quickly retract your hand to protect your face.

💡Tip: Snap it out and back—speed is key!

🥊 2. Cross

How to Do It: From your guard, pivot your back foot and rotate your hips forward as you throw your rear hand straight toward the target. Rotate your fist so your palm faces the floor at impact. Snap it back to guard position.

💡Tip: This is your power punch—use your hips and core for maximum force.

🥊 3. Lead Hook

How to Do It: With your lead elbow bent at 90 degrees, pivot on your front foot and rotate your hips, swinging your lead fist in a horizontal arc toward the side of the target. Keep your elbow level with your fist and wrist aligned.

🥊 4. Rear Hook

How to Do It: Same form as the lead hook, but on your rear side. Pivot your back foot, rotate your hips, and swing that rear hand in a tight arc, elbow up.

💡Tip: Use your core to drive the punch—imagine your body twisting like a coiled spring.

🥊 5. Lead Uppercut

How to Do It: Dip slightly at the knees, keep your lead elbow bent, and drive your fist upward in a tight arc, palm facing you or to the side. Use your legs and hips to generate power.

🥊 6. Rear Uppercut

How to Do It: Like the lead uppercut but with your rear hand. Dip, rotate your back foot forward, and fire the punch upward, using your legs and hips to generate force.

💡Tip: Aim for the centerline of your target—this punch lands best from up close.

Each punch uses your whole body—legs, core, shoulders, and arms—to deliver maximum power while keeping you balanced and ready for whatever’s next. Whether you’re throwing combos in class or just getting started, these six punches are your foundation for badass boxing.

Ready to Glove Up?

Hell yes. Kickboxing is for everyone—whether you’ve gloved up a thousand times or never touched a bag. And the best part? It leaves you wanting more. Book your next class today and practice your punches in real time 💥 Let’s go! 

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