About Counterpunching with the Parry

The key to successful counterpunching lies in understanding that there is more than one key to successful counterpunching!  I don't mean to be abstract with that statement, it's actually very true.  If you are looking to find out how to become a 'apex' counterpuncher overnight by reading one article and watching one video then I'm afraid you are misguided.  But, and this is a big but, being a top conterpuncher will definitely require an aptitude for blocking punches and parrying punches, in particular blocking and parrying the boxing jab.
As with a block, using the parry to block an opponent's jab has 3 key benefits:

• The parry is an efficient defensive action which uses little energy.
• It is an assertive defense, providing the dominant position to go 'on the attack.'
• Having blocked an opponent's jab, it stands to reason that you are in range to respond successfully with your own shot.

If you want to be a counterpunching genius then learning to successfully parry an opponent's jab will certainly help you along the way, and using the parry offers an excellent variation of the conventional block.  Watch the video then please leave any comments or questions.

Click here to view the video on Boxing Techniques - Counterpunching with the Parry!

The Mechanics of Counterpunching With the Parry

The description here assumes an orthodox versus an orthodox.  It is the back hand (right hand) that parries the incoming jab.

The mechanics of parrying an incoming jab are:

• The first move is a push from the back foot.  This push from the back foot provides the drive to rotate the hips and upper body in a counter-clockwise direction.
• The back hand (right hand) moves from the guard position, palm open, and makes contact with the opponent's jabbing arm on the outside (the right side as you look at it) of the wrist.
• The opponent's jab should be pushed from your right to left.  As the parry is taking place, the right hand should not move beyond the line of the left hand (economy of movement is vital.)
• After parrying the shot, the hand returns instantly to the 'home' position.

Common Faults When Parrying the Jab

The key faults that occur when a boxer attempts to parry an opponent's jab are:

• After parrying the shot, the right hand moves too far to their left (beyond the line of the left hand).  Ensure that the right hand moves no more than 3 to 5 inches away from the 'home' position otherwise a large gap will be left in your own defense!
• The move becomes an 'arm only' action.  If the initial drive is not provided by the back foot pushing (thereby rotating the upper body), then it is highly likely that the arm will not be strong enough to deflect the jab.  Basically, the opponent's jab will pile through your defense and straight into your face!
• This parry, as with blocking the jab, is a platform for counterpunching.  A major mistake is to successfully parry the punch but not take advantage by throwing your own shot!  This is an opportunity wasted and against a high standard of opponent opportunities don't come along that often.  Furthermore, when you throw your counterpunch, it must be instant.  Your own jab should land whilst your opponent's jab is still in the palm of your hand...yes, really that fast!

Enjoy using this skill.  Successfully parrying an opponent's punch really will open the door for top class counterpunching!

Click here to view the video on Boxing Techniques - Counterpunching with the Parry!