In boxing, defense is no less important than offense. Good defensive technique prevents injuries and also opens up chances to put pressure on your opponent.
The Guard Position
The foundation of everything is a safe ready stance (the guard). The hands should be held high enough to protect the chin, the elbows should cover the ribs, and the stance should be slightly side-on rather than square.
Slip
Moving the head slightly to the side just before a straight punch arrives lets the punch slide past and creates a chance to counter into the opening your opponent leaves.
Parry
This means lightly pushing your opponent's punch aside with the palm of your glove. It doesn't take strength; timing is everything.
Bob and Weave
This is the most effective defense, especially against hooks and looping punches. Driving from the legs, you move under the punch in a U-shaped motion.
Clinch
When balance is lost at close range, tying up your opponent and waiting for the referee to step in is a standard tactic. To use it safely, keep your elbows tucked in.
To Improve Your Defense
- Include defensive movements in your shadowboxing
- During pad work, ask for defensive drills that demand explosive reactions
- Before sparring, spend one round doing nothing but defense
Not getting hit is the best form of attack.