I recently got back into the gym, having boxed when I was like 10 or something (I'm 20 now). I've followed boxing all my life and you always hear the importance of the jab. When I'm sparring etc I try to set up my combinations off the jab, But I mainly use it to control the pace (I'm quite tall so just keep them off with it), But I'm worried I'm maybe taking the jab comments too literally? I don't want my jab to become predictable because it would be easy to counter me then.
Use jab as keeping the distance and measuring opponet. Don't throw pointless jabs or you get countered. Basically if you are tall you want to keep your opponet away with jabs. If you are shorter then you need to get inside using jabs.
Uses of the Jab Help maintain distance Set up other punches Score points Lure an opponent in Put opponent off balance (depending on where you land) Keep opponent off of you You shouldn't just throw the jab at your opponent and hope it lands. That's how you get countered and that rule goes for other punches as well. Every punch you throw should have a very specific place that you want it to land. Don't just throw a right cross at your opponents head, aim specifically for a part of the nose, eye, chin, etc. Same with body shots.
If you are generally taller than your opponent try the upper cut for an unexpected attack (depending upon your opponents posture) or left or right hook (depending upon your stance). As a taller fighter allow your opponent to attack you but do not step back, stay in the pocket and drop him when he try's to step away with a left of right hook. These punches are harder to see than the jab.
