It is amazing how many people do not fully understand the simple and yet incredibly effective principle of "give a present, and take it away". This video lesson explains it. It is very simple to understand, but like everything it has levels of understanding and application.

It is for boxers, strikers and self-defence students who want to control what their opponent does, rather than just waiting to see what happens.

What The Principle Is

You offer your opponent something they want. That is the present. It might be an opening, a target, a moment where you seem to be out of position. Then, just as they go for it, you take it away. They are now committed to something that is no longer there, and you are ready for exactly that.

The principle can be used to almost guarantee a certain response, one that you are, of course, waiting for, so that you can capitalise on it.

Subtle Or Exaggerated

It can be extremely subtle or very exaggerated. It depends entirely on the situation and the person in front of you, but the principle remains the same throughout.

  • Subtle: a slight drop of the hand, a small lean, a fraction of a second of stillness
  • Exaggerated: an obvious opening that an inexperienced or aggressive opponent simply cannot resist

Against an experienced opponent, the present needs to be small and believable. Against someone who is rushing in, it can be much bigger. The key is that they must believe it is real.

Why It Works

People react to opportunities. When they see something they want, they go for it, often without thinking. That is a predictable response. If you know what they will do, you do not have to react. You are already in position for it. That is a huge advantage over simply waiting and responding.

Common Mistakes

The biggest mistake is giving a present without being ready to take it away. Then you have simply given them an opening. The second mistake is using the same present over and over until they stop believing it. Mix it up.

How To Practise It

Start slowly with a partner. Offer a clear opening and have them attack it at low speed. Take it away and land a light counter. Gradually make the present smaller and more realistic, and let your partner attack with more intent. Keep the contact light while you learn the timing.

Take It Further

Principles like this are built into the Learn To Box Online Course. For more boxing tactics and technique, see The Boxing Series.