Six punches. Six numbers.

Every coach uses the same numbering. Learn it once and the timer's combo callouts click instantly. Numbers assume an orthodox stance; southpaws flip lead and rear.

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1. Jab (lead hand straight)

Straight punch with the lead hand. Fastest punch in boxing, used to measure distance, set up combinations, and keep an opponent honest. Snap it back to guard.

2. Cross (rear hand straight)

Straight punch with the rear hand. Rotate the rear hip and shoulder through the target. The biggest straight-power punch in the system.

3. Lead hook

Lead hand horizontal arc to the side of the head. Pivot the lead foot, turn the hip. Devastating at mid range.

4. Rear hook

Rear hand horizontal arc. Less common at distance because it telegraphs; usually thrown after a setup.

5. Lead uppercut

Lead hand vertical arc up the centerline. Drop the lead hip, drive up through the chin. Lethal in the pocket.

6. Rear uppercut

Rear hand vertical arc. Often follows a hook to the body or sets up the cross.

Body shots: 7 and 8

The numbering extends to body shots. 7 is the lead body hook (liver shot for an orthodox fighter); 8 is the rear body hook. Drains an opponent in late rounds.

Stance, footwork, and defense

Orthodox stance leads with the left foot and jabs with the left hand; southpaw flips both. Stay on the balls of the feet, step short, never cross the feet. Defense is built on the guard, head movement (slip, roll, pull), and footwork.

Why the numbering matters

Every FightPlans coach calls combinations by the numbers. When your coach says '1-2-3, slip, 2', you should hear jab, cross, lead hook, slip the return, cross. The timer's combo callouts use the same vocabulary. Learn the numbers, then train.

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