Due to a number of email requests for Boxing Daily to provide boxing coaching tips, I have decided to do a few articles on the basics of boxing.
Although it is probably the most basic of punches, the jab is one of the most important punches.
It is usually the first punch that you will be taught how to throw when you begin boxing as it is vital to any good boxer’s arsenal.
The majority of the great boxing champions have relied a lot of their jabs as it is very useful for a range of purposes.
Firstly it is a range finder. By throwing the jab you can find out if you are in range of your opponent without wasting energy on a more powerful shot. If you connect with the jab, it should always be followed up with a combination as you are in range and able to “let rip” with some power shots.
Secondly it can keep your opponent at bay. By throwing the jab out every now and then, you stop your opponent getting too confident and prevent him/her coming too close.
Finally the jab is very good for simply scoring points. If you are ahead in a fight, then you can just keep moving around the ring and throwing the jab to score additional points and secure the win.
The jab should be aimed for the chin (if a head shot) and you must turn your hand slightly clockwise so that the knuckles connect with your opponent. For southpaw boxer this rotation will be anti-clockwise.
Just before you throw the punch, slide your left foot forwards. Bring your punching hands straight back along the path that it went in order to guard your chin.
Remember that greats like Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali and great jabs…its could be you 
If you have any questions or comments about the jab then please post them below.
I agree that the jab is a very important punch to be learned. I have always used the jab as the first of many punches in many of my combinations…you just need to become a great boxer.
Comment by Jericho Wells — April 18, 2008 @ 2:28 pm