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Fitness

Your Fastest Strike: How to Perfect the Jab

Today I am going elaborate on why this seemingly simple strike can have a dramatic effect on your fight game.

Orion Lee

Written by Orion Lee Last updated on April 27, 2014

One of the most Important strikes in a fighter’s arsenal is the jab. The jab is a linear strike thrown with the lead hand at the opponent’s head or body, and it has many applications and variations. Today I am going elaborate on why this seemingly simple strike can have such a dramatic effect on your fight game.

Simplicity

The jab is the simplest strike a fighter can use. It takes the least amount of energy to throw and leaves you in the least likely position to be countered, assuming you perform it correctly. Having simple and effective weapons at your disposal will ensure you can upset your opponent, while at the same time conserving energy for your more powerful attacks.

When training make sure to spend extra time in perfecting the jab. There is a Chinese proverb that I feel rings true in regard to this technique: “Do not fear the ten thousand techniques practiced one time, fear the one technique practiced ten thousand times.”

Versatility

While being simple, the jab is also extremely versatile. It can be used to distract, unbalance, counter attack, create distance, set up attacks, gauge your opponent’s reaction, and most importantly smash your opponents face repeatedly.

A good fighter can be measured in the application of his or her jab. Take Muhammad Ali, for example. He would constantly whip his jab into his opponents’ faces, frustrating them, making them more and more aggressive, all the while dancing around the ring landing jab after jab. Muhammad Ali was a master at applying the jab and became one of the greatest boxers of all time as a result.

Speed

In fighting, your lead foot and hand are the closest body parts to your opponent. Since the hand weighs significantly less than the leg, it is naturally faster, therefore the jab is the fastest strike a person can deliver. A common saying in boxing is “speed kills” – and it’s absolutely true. Possessing superior speed is a tremendous advantage and allows you to beat your opponent to the punch. Having a fast jab will demoralize your opponent and allow you to execute powerful follow-ups with your other weapons.

Training the Jab

As with any of the other strikes there are many ways to train and perfect your jab. Regardless of which method you choose, always remember to keep good tight form and use your footwork. Without solid footwork behind the jab, it won’t be able to do its job.

Some of the ways to train the jab are as follows:

  • Shadow boxing
  • Heavy bag work
  • Top and bottom bag
  • Mitts
  • Drilling and sparring

For a more detailed explanation on the proper technique for the jab, please see the below video:

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Orion Lee

About Orion Lee

Orion Lee is a martial artist with two decades of experience. Beginning training in the martial arts at eight years old, Orion from an early age held a passion for fitness and well being. He has a degree in contemporary Chinese martial arts and several certifications in personal training and nutritional consultation.

Orion’s belief in both the martial arts and in fitness has always been similar to those of the great Bruce Lee, less is more and do away with the non-essential whenever possible. Orion’s extensive knowledge and experience allows him to customize challenging, technique-focused, and simple curriculums that create strong, smart, and safe athletes.

Orion has dedicated many years to studying numerous styles of martial arts, nearly four of which were spent training intensively in China where he studied sanda (Chinese kickboxing), muay Thai and wushu. Orion has specialized in the art of muay Thai for the past ten years, and has had the honor of training under several great instructors including Guru Dan Inosanto, Jongsanan (The Woodenman), Grandmaster Vincent Lyn, Kru Mike Wise, Kru John Speazzano, Kru Victor Acosta, and several Lumpinee stadium champions.

Orion currently fights out of Robot Fight & Fitness in Santa Monica, California, where he trains under Kru David Huerta and also works as the director of strength and conditioning.

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