The L guard, also called the sword and shield, is one of the best ways to keep yourself safe and still be able to attack as and when you want. In this video lesson I give you tips on how to use it in your heavy bag training.

The tips are built around three ideas: controlling the head, controlling the body, and controlling everything. This is for boxers who want to add the L guard to their game, and for anyone who wants to make their bag work more like a real fight.

What The L Guard Is

In the L guard the lead arm sits low, across the body, roughly at the waist, so the arm makes an L shape. The rear hand stays high, protecting the chin. The lead shoulder comes up to help cover the jaw.

The name sword and shield explains it well. One arm protects, one arm is ready to strike, and both can switch roles in an instant.

Why Train It On The Bag

Most people use the bag to hit hard and get tired. That is fine, but it is a waste of an opportunity. The bag is a great place to build the habits that make a guard like this work:

  • Getting the lead arm back to its position after every shot
  • Keeping the rear hand home while the lead works
  • Using the lead arm and shoulder to control the space in front of you
  • Learning when to strike from the L guard and when to stay safe in it

Controlling Head, Body And Everything

A guard is not only for blocking. Used properly, it gives you control. The lead arm can control the space at head height or at body height, and with practice it lets you control the exchange. On the bag, imagine the bag is a person. Treat its head and body as targets and work on taking control of each one before you strike.

Common Mistakes

  • Dropping the rear hand. The rear hand is the shield. If it drifts, the whole guard fails.
  • Lazy lead arm. Low does not mean switched off. It must stay active and ready.
  • Standing still. The L guard works with movement, not instead of it.
  • Copying without understanding. Learn why it works before you rely on it.

How To Practise It

Start slowly. Work rounds where you only throw from the L guard and return to it. Then add movement. Then add combinations. Only when it feels natural should you take it into partner work.

Take It Further

To build your boxing on solid foundations, the Learn To Box Online Course gives you a step-by-step path. For more of my boxing material, see The Boxing Series.