Boxing Combinations – The Double Jab

Control the Action with a Double Jab!

We’re going to start our range of boxing combination articles with the double jab, often referred to as the ‘Postman’s Knock.’  Some key points to bear in mind.

• A double jab will not be thrown from a static position, unlike a single jab.  So, when using the double jab, you’ll always be moving forwards to attack your opponent or moving backwards to maintain distance from an opponent.  It’s pointless throwing a double jab when standing still because the first one might land, but it’s very unlikely that the second one will.
• A consistent piece of advice that I’ll issue with regards to any boxing combination is to ensure that the individual skill components are performed correctly in isolation.  This piece of advice is particularly important when throwing a double jab; study and understand the articles on the jab and and moving in and out.
• When throwing a double jab, we are combining footwork (moving in or out) with a punch (the jab).  It’s vital that when combining these skills that one does not negatively impact the other.  For example, with the double jab it’s quite easy to over-balance (allowing your weight to go over your front leg) when moving forward.

The Double Jab on the Attack

1. Move forward and jab at the same time (remembering that you are moving from the ‘edge of range’ to long range.)  It’s crucial that you nail the timing as the feet and arms MUST work together.  This means that as soon as you ‘drive’ off the back foot, the jab is thrown at exactly the same time.
2. In theory, the double jab could be thrown 10 times!  It’s about maintaining balance and control.

The Double Jab on the Retreat

1. In many ways it’s easier to double jab on the retreat.  Throw the jab at exactly the moment you thrust off the front foot in order to move backwards.

The Common Fault

As mentioned previously, you must maintain the integrity of each jab.  The most common way of not doing this is to leave the upper arm extended after the first jab, and merely moving the forearm back and forward.  This results in a lack of power and a big opening to your own body.  Ensure that each jab goes out and comes back along the same line.

The double jab is a staple of a boxer’s arsenal.  Practice the double jab constantly, and above all ensure that the feet are in total co-ordination with the hands.  Check out the article on boxing combinations to get more of an understanding of the technical theory behind building effective combinations.  In the meantime, leave a question or comment below.

Cheers

Fran

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