Beginner Boxing Blueprint: Stance, Guard, and the First 3 Combos You Must Master (Slidell, LA)
Welcome to the sweet science, Slidell. We keep it simple: hands up, elbows in, chin tucked—let’s get to work. Master your stance and guard first, then add three clean combos. Do this right, and you’ll move better, punch safer, and feel confident in every round.
Why start with stance and guard
- Your stance is your base. Your guard is your shield.
- Better balance = more snap on shots.
- Fewer bad habits = faster progress.
- Safer wrists, shoulders, and neck.
How to set your boxing stance (orthodox and southpaw)
Orthodox (right-handed)
- Feet: Left foot forward, right foot back, shoulder-width. Back heel slightly lifted.
- Line: Back toe lines up with front heel—think railroad tracks, not a tightrope.
- Knees: Soft bend (athletic ready).
- Hips/Shoulders: Slightly turned—chest not square.
- Chin: Tucked; eyes up.
Southpaw (left-handed)
- Mirror the above: Right foot forward, left foot back. Same rules, same balance.
Footwork fundamentals
- Step, then slide: Lead foot first going forward/left; rear foot first going back/right.
- Keep stance width—don’t bring your feet together.
- Quiet feet: Short, controlled steps; no hopping unless it’s intentional.
Build a reliable guard (protect what matters)
- Lead hand: Eyebrow height, elbow in—catch jabs, shoot jabs.
- Rear hand: Cheekbone/high jawline, elbow tucked to ribs.
- Shoulders: Slight shrug to cover the chin.
- Reset instantly: Punch, snap back, breathe.
Coach cue: “If I snap a photo mid-punch, your other hand should still be home.”
The first 3 boxing combos for beginners
Combo 1: Jab–Cross (1–2)
- How: From guard, snap the jab straight
out and back. Rotate rear hip/shoulder and fire the cross down the middle. - Keys: Chin tucked, sharp exhale on each punch, heels light.
- Use: Setups, range finding, stopping pressure.
Combo 2: Jab–Cross–Lead Hook (1–2–3)
- How: 1–2 as above, then pivot your lead foot toward the target, rotate hip/shoulder, elbow ~90°, hook across.
- Keys: Keep it compact; palm slightly down or vertical. Snap back to guard.
- Use: When the opponent’s right hand is high and the left side opens up.
Combo 3: Jab to Body–Cross to Head (1b–2h)
- How: Bend knees and change levels for the body jab (don’t fold at the waist). Come back up the center with a straight cross.
- Keys: Eyes up when changing levels; guard stays tight.
- Use: Mix levels to break high guards and create openings.
Common mistakes I fix in class
- Tall stance, locked knees → Sit slightly and stay mobile.
- Dropping the rear hand → Glue it to your cheekbone on defense and recovery.
- Over-rotating the hook → Keep it compact; power comes from the hip, not a big swing.
- Crossing feet on movement → Step-slide. Keep the track.
- Holding breath → Quick exhales on each punch; breathe through the round.
At-home beginner drills (no bag needed)
Shadowboxing: 3 rounds × 2 minutes, 45s rest
- R1: Stance and guard only—move all directions, hands up.
- R2: 1–2 focus—light, fast, balanced.
- R3: 1–2–3 plus head movement after each combo (slip right or roll left).
Wall jab drill: 2 sets × 20 reps each hand
- Stand an inch from a wall; jab straight without letting your shoulder touch the wall.
Balance line drill: 3 minutes
- Tape two parallel lines on the floor (railroad tracks). Step-slide forward/back/left/right staying on the tracks.
Beginner bag work (if you have a bag): 4 rounds × 2 minutes
- R1: Only jabs (high and body).
- R2: 1–2, reset your feet every time.
- R3: 1–2–3, then guard up for one full second.
- R4: Mix all three combos; add one defensive move after each.
Safety, recovery, and how often to train
- Frequency: 2–4 sessions/week for beginners is perfect.
- Warm-up: 5 minutes jump rope or marching, shoulder circles, hip openers.
- Cooldown: Gentle neck/shoulder mobility, calf/hamstring stretches, 3 deep belly breaths.
- Hands/wrists: Use 180” wraps; keep wrists straight at impact.
- Medical note: If you have prior injuries or health conditions, consult a medical professional before high-intensity training.
Beginner Boxing in Slidell — FAQs
How often should a beginner train boxing?
Two to four days per week focusing on stance, guard, and three core combos is ideal to build fundamentals safely.
What gear do I need for my first class at AHB?
Comfortable athletic shoes, water, hand wraps (we can help you wrap), and gloves if you have them—otherwise we’ve got loaners.
Is boxing safe for complete beginners?
Yes—our beginner program emphasizes proper stance, guard, and technique. You’ll progress at your pace with safety-first coaching.
Do you offer a Free Trial Class in Slidell?
Absolutely. Book your Free Trial Class to get started.
Ready to start? Free Trial Class in Slidell, LA
If you’re in Slidell and want coaching that’s safe, technical, and motivating, come train with us at Anointed Hands Boxing.
- What you get: Fundamentals session, mitt work intro, beginner combos, and a clear plan for your first month.
- How to book: Grab your Free Trial Class.
- Bring a friend: First-timers are welcome—gloves available.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13
Take that strength into your stance today. Mind over matter—if Coach don’t mind, then it doesn’t matter. We don’t get tired, we get HUNGRY! Stay strong, live long.
