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Boxing Punch Numbers

In boxing, every punch has a number. This numbering system lets trainers call out combinations quickly. Learn these and you'll understand any combo.

1

Jab

Lead hand

A quick, straight punch with your lead hand. The most important punch in boxing. Used to measure distance, set up combos, and keep your opponent honest.

Extend your arm fully and snap it back

Step forward slightly as you throw

Keep your rear hand glued to your chin

2

Cross

Rear hand

A powerful straight punch with your rear hand. Your main power punch. Rotate your hips and shoulders for maximum force.

Pivot your back foot as you throw

Full hip and shoulder rotation

The power comes from the ground up

3

Lead Hook

Lead hand

A short, arcing punch from the side with your lead hand. Devastating at close range. Can target the head or body.

Keep your elbow at 90 degrees

Pivot your lead foot and rotate your hips

Compact punch - don't swing wide

4

Rear Hook

Rear hand

A hook thrown with your rear hand. Less common but effective when you've created the angle. Often used in close-range exchanges.

Similar mechanics to the lead hook, opposite side

Often follows a lead hook naturally

Pivot your rear foot for power

5

Lead Uppercut

Lead hand

An upward punch with your lead hand. Targets the chin or body at close range. Dip slightly before driving upward.

Bend your knees before throwing

Drive upward with your legs

Palm faces toward you at impact

6

Rear Uppercut

Rear hand

A powerful upward punch with your rear hand. The most dangerous uppercut. Can end fights when landed cleanly on the chin.

Drop your rear hand slightly before driving up

Rotate your hips into the punch

Short range - don't reach

Common Combinations

1-2

Jab-Cross

The bread and butter of boxing. Use it constantly.

1-1-2

Double Jab-Cross

Double the distraction, same power finish.

1-2-3

Jab-Cross-Hook

The classic 3-punch combo. The hook catches them after the cross.

1-2-3-2

Jab-Cross-Hook-Cross

Four-punch flow. The final cross is often the one that lands.

1-2-5-2

Jab-Cross-Uppercut-Cross

The uppercut creates the opening for the final cross.

1-6-3-2

Jab-Uppercut-Hook-Cross

Jab high, go low with the uppercut, then finish upstairs.

1-2-3-2-3-2

Six-Punch Combo

The long combo. Keep the pressure on with alternating hooks and crosses.