There are four essential strikes that are your foundation.
Every beginner needs to start with these four and every expert needs to come back to these four and drill them over and over again.
You start with these four and you die by these four.
The fundamental four are:
In this 4-part series you will learn how to execute and throw each of these four strikes correctly. This way you don't form bad habits or you'll be able to fix the bad habits you may have formed.
Each of the four strikes are broken down into their video and post. This way you focus on one punch at a time and absorb all the techniques into your training.
Each video is focused on punches and their execution. I intentionally left out footwork and head movement. Adding these introduces another layer of complexity that you have to drill and monitor which allows for more mistakes and bad habits to form.
By isolating to strikes only, it'll ensure you learn the proper body mechanics first before introducing footwork or head movement.
Also each of the four fundamental strikes will be thrown to the head. Body shots are different strikes and require the mastery of fundamental four first. You can introduce body punches once you got a hang of the essential four.
Most important strike and the first strike you need to learn to master is a jab.
Remember that this series is just the beginning. If you want a deep dive and complete breakdown of how to master each of the 4 punches, 4 essential combinations and much more - you'll need the Fundamental Four instructional course.
Jabs win fights.
Jabs are used in different ways and for different reasons.
There are also 3 types of jabs you will see:
The type of jab we'll focus on in this post is a flick or snap jab. This is a fast jab that will be used to set up your shots such as a power cross.
Few important things to keep in mind as you throw the snapping jab.
Make sure you throw your jab right from your fundamental fight stance and as you throw your jab, rotate your fist so all the knuckles are horizontal, with the palm facing the floor.
This adds extra speed and power because you are twisting and torqueing the fist into your target.
There is a variation of the jab where you throw it vertical. Bruce Lee used to throw the jab this way, as well as some boxers. But as a fundamental jab, rotate your fist. Once you get proficient with this jab, you can throw jab variations.
Another common mistake when throwing jabs is the looping down on return. The jab is thrown straight to the target but then looped back down. This loop down exposes your jaw and opens you up to counters.
Do not loop your jabs back.
As you throw the jab in a straight line at the target, it needs to come back the same way – straight back to your chin.
In and out, straight line.
Another common mistake on the jab is the seesaw. This is where you drop the opposite hand down away from your chin as the jab goes out.
This needs to be monitored and trained out of you.
Make sure you keep your opposite hand glued to your chin as your jab goes out. Always be tightly protected on offense - keep the opposite hand up.
For additional protection, tuck your chin into your lead shoulder.
There are different ways you can drill jabs. This will apply to all other strikes.
Slow, flow and high pace.
Start drilling slow then pick up speed. Drill the jab thousands upon thousands of times. Develop the muscle memory to execute under any condition - any time, any place.
Shadow boxing allows you to train while visualizing, punching bag allows to train by hitting something solid. You must do both.
Also hit focus mitts and pads, if you have someone to hold them.
Remember the following when drilling the jab:
These are just few of the tips and important points to keep in mind to throw the jab flawlessly. But there is a lot more to cover.
Take a deep-dive into the complete Fundamental Four instructional course.
You'll learn how to throw all 4 fundamental punches every fighter needs to master. As well as 4 essential combinations. If you become proficient with these 4, you will begin to become a dangerous fighter.
Fight Training From Home Programs/Courses
Whether you are a professional or a beginner, you'll be spending majority of your life training solo (from home or on the road). Working on technique, drilling, developing strength and cardio. I've been training all my life. Here are some of the best programs and courses to start or continue fight training from home.