How do I perfect my jab?

Question

I started boxing recently and already know that the jab is your most important punch in your arsenal when it comes to boxing. My jab is ok but needs a lot of improvement. I don't get what they mean when the trainers tell you that you're jab is supposed to make a snapping noise when it hits the target? Any exercises to perfect the jab?

Answer 1

I'd say keep working at the Heavy bags dude.  The heavier the better as far as a exercise that's going to improve your jab.   I hear a ton of old boxing coaches say, "Keep it simple stupid" to their gyms' people all the time.  I would recon that the double end bag would allow for some pretty good jab perfection as well while practicing bobbing and weaving.  Maybe there's some things you can do in your own free time at home too to improve coordination with your left hand.  Hand exercises and what not such as the kind of stuff found at this link http://www.target.com/gp/search/602-3632... now I know that a lot of people these days think, "Man why is every thing so stupid?"  but let's not forget that the old timers were all using the same c**p except they only had black and white back then as far as color assortments went.  Adjustable hand grips and wrist weights are still some of the best things around to help improve a decent jab dude.  Shadow boxing can even help after enough hours have been put into it.  Just keep training dude ..... the speed and coordination will become natural for you man it's all in the time spent at it.

good luck.

Hey one more thing...... you are stepping into your jab right? I mean I'm sure your gym's trainers would be on you if you weren't, but are you pushing off with that back foot like you should be when throwing the jab?  ..... just wondering.

Answer 2

there are 2 ways to perfect your jab, firstly practice, and secondly sparring, its as simple as that.

the snapping noise that is spoken of is when the correct job is thrown it hits the target and leaves the target as quick or quicker than when it first arrived.

Answer 3

The jab is really important at almost all levels of boxing. Amateurs and golden gloves, that is where most of your scoring comes from. Basically a point every time the white tip lands cleanly on an opponent. In the pros, it is really important because it provides defense through offense by letting your opponent know not to get too close.

The best way to improve technique is to shadow box with a good trainer. If you lack the good trainer, you can still practice on your own in front of a mirror. A few important things to remember is that when you practice form, you take it slow and really watch your movements, With a jab, you want good clean crisp movement. Make sure you have you hands up the entire time, take a step, shoot from your chin, and make sure your hand ends back up at your chin for defense.

The snapping noise basically means that this is not a "knockout" punch. You are not following through with all your weight, you are simply throwing to a spot. The better you get, the quicker and more accurate your jabs will be, landing exactly the right distance with a stinging snapping sound. Practice, practice, practice. It is amazing how helpful it is to stand in front of a mirror going through the motions and analyzing your form.

Good Luck

Answer 4

I guess that snapping noise happens because you punch really fast then bring it back in with momentum.  IDK how to perfect the jab...?  Just make sure your hand doesn't die when it reaches contact with your opponent.

Not sure if jabbing is the most important, but Ali/Mayweather made it look like it was.