There is a distinct, if subtle, difference between counter punching and punching when your opponent is in the right place. This video lesson explains that difference. It is a very high-level principle that few people understand, and fewer can actually do.

It is for experienced boxers and coaches who want to understand what is really happening when a punch lands as the other boxer misses.

What We Think We See

When Boxer 1 punches and misses and gets "countered" by Boxer 2, we automatically assume that Boxer 2 counter punched. Boxer 1 attacked, Boxer 2 reacted. That is the usual way of looking at it.

But what if Boxer 2 knew that Boxer 1 was not in range to land? What if he allowed him to throw his shot, because he knew that he was in range himself, and threw his own shot just as Boxer 1 was missing? It may look like a counter punch, but at high levels it is not. It is punching at the exact right time.

Reacting Versus Knowing

The difference is between reacting and knowing.

  • A reaction comes after the other person's punch. You see it, you respond. You are always a little behind.
  • Knowing comes from understanding distance. You know their punch will fall short and yours will land, so you are not waiting for them. You are using their attack as the moment to strike.

The second is much harder to beat, because you are not relying on fast reflexes. You are relying on distance and timing, which do not slow down in the late rounds the way reflexes do.

What It Takes

To do this you need to really know your own distance and your opponent's. You need to be relaxed enough to stay in place while a punch comes towards you, trusting that it will not land. You need balance so you can fire at once without having to set yourself. None of that comes quickly.

How To Practise It

Start with a partner throwing slow, light jabs from just out of range. Stay still and watch them fall short. Once you trust your distance, add a light shot of your own as theirs is missing. Over time, increase the speed. Keep the contact light, and build the trust in your distance before anything else.

Take It Further

Distance and timing are at the heart of the Learn To Box Online Course. If you want personal help with high-level principles like this, Private Mentoring is the most direct route.