Why numbers instead of names
Numbers are short, language-independent and easy to hear over the noise of a gym. They also describe a sequence rather than a single action, so a coach can call a four-punch combination in under a second.
The numbering assumes an orthodox stance: left foot forward, left hand lead, right hand rear. If you stand southpaw, the numbers still refer to the same hands and the same mechanics — your lead and rear are simply mirrored.
1 — The jab
The jab is the lead-hand straight punch. It is the most important punch in boxing because it measures distance, disrupts rhythm and sets up everything else. The hand travels straight from the guard, the shoulder rolls forward and the hand returns to the face.
A jab does not need to be powerful to be useful. A fast, annoying jab that lands and comes back is worth more than a slow power jab that leaves you open.
2 — The cross
The cross is the rear-hand straight punch. Power comes from the ground up: the rear foot turns, the hip rotates, the shoulder follows and the hand travels in a straight line.
The classic beginner mistake is to lean forward with the punch. Keep your weight between your feet and let the rotation do the work.
Once you know the numbers, a combination stops being a blur and becomes a sentence you can read.
3 — The lead hook
The lead hook travels around the outside of the guard. The elbow stays bent at roughly ninety degrees, the lead foot pivots and the hips turn. The hand finishes in front of your face, not past your opposite shoulder.
Hooks are short-range punches. If you have to reach for it, you are probably too far away; step in first.
4 — The rear hook
The rear hook is the same shape with the back hand. It is less common than the lead hook because the rear hand has further to travel, but it is a useful weapon when you are already inside and the opponent is covering the centre.
Keep the elbow bent and the wrist locked. A hook thrown with a straight arm is a slap waiting to happen.
5 — The lead uppercut
The lead uppercut comes from below, with the palm facing up and the elbow bent. The legs bend slightly and drive upward; the arm follows. It is a close-range punch that works when the opponent is leaning over their front foot.
Do not wind up. The uppercut is short, and telegraphing it gives your opponent time to move.
6 — The rear uppercut
The rear uppercut mirrors the lead version with the back hand. Because it comes from the rear side, it carries more power, but it also takes longer to get there. Use it when you are already close and the angle is open.
As with every punch, the hand returns to the guard immediately. The rep is not finished until you are protected again.
Reading a combination
Once you know the numbers, a sequence like 1-2-3-2 becomes easy to follow: jab, cross, lead hook, cross. The final 2 is often the power shot after the hook has turned the opponent's guard.
Start slowly. Throw the combination in the air, then on the bag, then on pads. Speed comes last. If the numbers get tangled in your head, say them out loud as you throw them.
- 1-2: the most common combination in boxing.
- 1-1-2: a double jab to close distance, then the cross.
- 1-2-3-2: jab, cross, hook, cross.
- 3-2: hook to turn the guard, then the cross down the middle.
- 5-2 or 6-3: uppercut to change the level, then a hook.
How to practise at home
Shadow boxing is the cheapest drill in the sport. Throw three rounds of 1-2, then three rounds of 1-2-3-2, focusing on balance and returning your hands. No equipment, no impact, no excuses.
When you get to the gym, take the same combination to the bag. Keep it slow enough that every punch finishes in the guard.