How important is it to have your head off the centerline in your stance? Is it one of those things that is recommended or is it critical? The basic stance that I was taught was rather upright, and now a coach that I sometimes work suggested that I try to fight more out of a slight crouch, with my head shaded to my right side (being orthodox). I am average height (5'10", 165 lbs). The coach says this was the standard with the old timers and he hates the upright, more square high guard stance that has gained popularity. He tells me to watch guys like Charley Burley, Ezzard Charles or Hopkins for a modern guy. He really loves 'The Old Guys'. I have yet to spar using a modified stance... my balance seems like it would be off too. Is this common? Or is it I just have to get used to the new feel? And how do I try using a new stance while sparring? I have been training for 3 years with 3 bouts.
Try it in sparring. It'll help you to let your left hand down or out when you stand like this though. I personally love standing like that. I'm 6'0 170lb, so it can work for a tall guy. Really helps you take away the guy's jab if you play it right. Gotta make sure you keep moving that head though. And footwork is important, because it can be pretty easy for guys to get over to your left side and chop you upside the ear with right hands. But it's not a bad stance. Give it a few tries, you might find it works for you. If not, at least you'll have one more thing in your bag of tricks.
Another question I should have added. If you are taking alot more shots than you normally take, how long should you stick with it to give it a fair assessment? I know that since its new and different, it will take time getting used to it. Maybe 2-3 months of sparring 1-2 per week (thats my normal schedule)??
Its a very dated technique. Hopkins still uses it but not many other boxers. You need to be more side on and with your shoulder covering he chin. Doesn't work with a conventional guard.
Awesome video. Man, that's perfect! Thanks. He hold his left much lower than I do (or what was suggested). The coach said right glove to chin, left glove about shoulder level.
Barney Ross used this stance. (He's the guy in the striped trunks.) [ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlWPTK1eYVo[/ame] Notice how he keeps his left hand at or just below shoulder level with his shoulder chambered to snap out a quick jab, hook, or uppercut. The left hand is more for offensive countering than defense. Defense is mostly done with head movement and the rear hand.
What does everyone think to a south-paw occupying this stance? After watching those videos my stance is quite similar and i've been having problems with my head being off centre line but if i could use it to my advantage that would be great
What ever stance you choose to adopt, make sure you´re balanced and comfortable, because your punches won´t do much damage if you´re off balanced. not to mention it´ll make it easier for your opponent to control you. your head should always be moving and never in one place whether it´s center-line or otherwise. If you find yourself getting hit more than usual than maybe it´s time to try a new strategy.Also, when fighting up-right, the tendency is to be on your heels which would take away reflex ability. standing on the balls of your feet will enable you to react quicker, which usually comes from a crouched position.
As long as your head is in a place where he does not expect it it's fine, what's important is that you're balanced to retaliate. An evaded punch is worth **** unless it can lead to an offensive move, otherwise you might as well just run.
