What Are The Boxing Punch Numbers? (All You Need To Know!)

Last Updated on October 16, 2023 by Alex PT

The boxing punch numbers are a system used to identify and teach the six basic punches in the sport:

• 1: Jab
• 2: Cross
• 3: Lead hook
• 4: Rear hook
• 5: Lead uppercut
• 6: Rear uppercut

How Are Boxing Punches Numbered? 

In boxing, punches are numbered by a method that makes it easier to understand and also helps a professional boxer master winning punch combinations. An orthodox boxing stance is used to determine the punch number system in boxing. Let’s check it out! 

1. Right-hand punches are basically even-numbered punches

2. Left-hand punches are odd-numbered punches 

There are sometimes those punch combinations are used for boxing training, where the punch count numbers are used to remember drills. So, let’s look at the basic combinations using the numbering system. They include; 1 – 2 = Jab – Cross, 3 – 4 = Lead Hook – Rear Hook, and 5 – 6 = Lead Uppercut – Rear Uppercut. Boxing training and drills require the frequent use of these punch combinations. So, as someone who is just starting out in the game, you should master these numbers. You’ll be able to call out combinations during a workout when you’ve memorized these boxing punch numbers. 

What Are Different Types of Punches in Boxing?

In boxing, various types of punches are used strategically to score points, defend, and ultimately defeat an opponent. Here are the different types of punches in boxing, along with brief descriptions:

1. Jab (#1): The jab is a quick, straight punch thrown with the lead hand. It is primarily used to maintain distance, set up combinations, and keep the opponent on the defensive.
2. Cross (#2): The cross is a powerful straight punch delivered with the rear hand. It often follows a jab and is aimed at the opponent’s face or body, with the hips and shoulders rotating to generate force.
3. Hook (#3 and #4):
   • Left Hook (#3): Thrown with the lead hand, the left hook is a lateral punch targeting the opponent’s head or body. It is effective in close range.
   • Right Hook (#4): Similar to the left hook, but delivered with the rear hand.
4. Uppercuts (#5 and #6):
   • Left Uppercut (#5): An upward punch with the lead hand, targeting the opponent’s chin. It’s often used at close range.
   • Right Uppercut (#6): Similar to the left uppercut but thrown with the rear hand.
5. Body Punches: These are punches aimed at the opponent’s torso. Variations include hooks to the body and straight punches to the midsection. Body punches can be used to weaken an opponent and slow them down.
6. Overhand Right (#7): An arcing punch delivered with the rear hand, looping over the opponent’s guard. It is effective for catching an opponent off guard.
7. Straight Right (#8): A straight punch delivered with the rear hand, typically following a jab. It is useful for setting up combinations and attacking the opponent’s head or body.
8. Lead Straight Right (#9): An unconventional punch where the lead hand (typically the left hand) is thrown straight, targeting the opponent’s face or body. It is an unexpected punch.
9. Left and Right Crosses (#10 and #11): These are powerful straight punches, similar to the standard jab and cross but with the opposite hand.
10. Feint: Not a punch but a deceptive move where a boxer pretends to throw a punch to gauge the opponent’s reaction. Feints are used to create openings and set traps.
11. Check Hook: A defensive punch thrown while moving backward to counter an advancing opponent. It combines elements of a hook and a pivot.
12. Up-Jab: A jab thrown at an upward angle, often used to disrupt the opponent’s rhythm and create distance.

How Do You Do Basic Punches In Boxing?

To give you a better understanding of how to master the punch number system in boxing, we’ve provided insights into getting started with the moves. 

1. = The Jab 

To execute this punch, you need to use your fists in a guard position to assume a fighting stance. Then, while you keep your fist in line with its starting point, extend your lead arm straight forward. Lastly, take back your fist to your face swiftly. Other than being a powerful one, the jab technique is supposed to be a rapid movement. You need to memorize this move during your drills. 

2. = The Cross 

To execute this punch, you need to be in the same fighting stance with fists in the guard position. You’ll then rotate your hips as you pivot on your back foot, positioning your body towards the front. Then, extend your rear arm ahead as you rotate and pivot, using your shoulder as the main basis of your power. Lastly,  withdraw your rear hand back to the guard position as you rotate your body back to a fighting stance. 

3. = The Lead Hook 

The lead hook is a bit complex but still doable for a beginner. To execute this punch, you need to be in a fighting stance with your fists in a guard position. To transfer your weight on your lead leg, you need to rotate your body into a forward position. Now, position your lead arm up to shoulder height as you bend your elbow at a 90-degree angle. While you rotate your body to follow your fist, pivot on your lead leg. Lastly, your elbow should end up almost in front of your face as you follow through as your arm will remain bent at the elbow at a roughly 90-degree angle. 

When executing this punch for the first time, it might feel a little bit awkward because it is a tricky but effective and powerful punch to master. 

4. = The Rear Hook 

To execute this punch, you will be in a fighting stance with your fists in a guard position. Then, as you bend your elbow at a 90-degree angle, position your rear arm to shoulder height. While you rotate your body and hips, pivot your rear foot. And lastly, you should keep your elbow in front of your face as it remains bent when throwing a hook punch. 

5 = The Lead Uppercut 

To execute this punch, you will be in a fighting stance with your fists in a guard position. Then, try to bend your knees into a low squat. Lower your lead arm to a 90-degree angle away from your body. Lastly, drive your fist in an upward movement into a punch keeping your elbow bent as you use the power from your body and legs. 

6 = The Rear Uppercut 

To execute this punch, you will be in a fighting stance with your fists in a guard position. Then, tilt your knees into a low squat. Lower your rear arm to a 90-degree angle from your body. Just like you did when executing the rear hook and cross punches, rotate your hips and body as you pivot on your back foot. Then, move your fist in an upward movement for the punch, keeping your elbow bent. 

FAQs 

Closing Thoughts 

If you’re looking forward to becoming a professional boxer someday, you should master these basic punches that are categorized into 6 numbers. Learning how to execute the six basic punches is the basis of becoming a professional boxer. We’ve reached the closing chapter of this informative article. We hope you were able to find good resources in your quest to know the boxing punch numbers. If you have any questions or comments about the article topic, don’t hesitate to contact us. Thanks.

References:

https://blog.joinfightcamp.com/training/six-6-basic-boxing-punches/
https://evolve-mma.com/blog/boxing-fundamentals-understanding-the-boxing-punch-number-system/