BALAZS BOXING NEWSLETTER

The Art of Body Punching:

The ability to "get low" and deliver a body shot correctly is something every boxer should master. Many boxers punch to the body, but very few do so effectively. While you may never get in the ring to execute a true body punch, working this punch tones the buttocks, the quads and hamstrings. It is also excellent for core stability and balance. For body punches, position is more important than power. The best body shot is delivered from close range using power that starts from the legs. The key is to move in and bend the legs to lower the body, not just lower the hands to throw the body punch.

Heavy bag drill:

In Round 1, begin with a 3-minute round of warm up punches, jabs, straight rights, etc. In the second round, begin to practice with body punches.

In Round 2, while working the heavy bag, move in, bend your legs (to get low) and throw a jab to the body. Imagine the lower � of the bag is your opponent's body. Quickly get out. Move and circle the bag. Continue throwing jabs to the head. Do this for a 3 minute round.

In Round 3, practice moving in with a 1-2 combination to the body (Left Jab and Straight Right). Focus on bending your knees to get low. Lowering your body with your legs allows you to throw your punches from the same position as you would an upright punch - straight from the shoulders! It ensures better protection and better vision as well as maximum power.

For the last 3 minute round, Round 4, practice throwing a quick 1-2 combination to the body followed by a left hook to the head. Focus on getting in, getting low and getting up fast. The speed and power comes from your legs and hip. The body punch motion is also very similar to the rotation executed during a hook. It is also similar to doing power squats.

To maximize your offensive attack, work combinations that involve punches to both the head and body. Body punches may create openings to the head. Effective body punches will also tire your opponent. Body punches can be thrown with either hand. Practice throwing body punches with your lead hand. Since it is closer to the bag (your opponent) it can be faster and harder to defend.

Visible Fats and Oils

Strictly limit fatty meats, cooking and salad oils, sauces, dressing and shortening. Use margarine and nuts very sparingly. Avoid frying.

Sugars

Limit sugar, honey, molasses, syrups, pies, cakes, pastries, candy, cookies, soft drinks, and sugar-rich desserts-like pudding and ice cream. Save these foods for special occasions.

Foods containing cholesterol

Try to limit meat, sausage, eggs yolks, and liver. Limit dairy products, if used, cook with low-fat cheese or non-fat milk products. If you eat fish and poultry, use them sparingly.

Salt

Use minimal salt during cooking. Banish the saltshaker. Strictly limit highly salted products like pickles, crackers, soy sauce, salted popcorn, nuts, chips, pretzels, and garlic salt.

Alcohol

Avoid alcohol in all forms, as well as caffeinated beverages such as coffee, colas and black tea.

Whole grains

Freely use brown rice, millet, barley, corn, wheat and rye. Also eat freely of whole-grain products, such as breads, pastas, shredded wheat and tortillas.

Tubers and Legumes

Freely use all kinds of white potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams (without high-fat toppings). Enjoy peas and beans of every kind.

Fruits and vegetables

Eat several fresh, whole fruits every day. Limit fiber-poor fruit juices and fruits canned in syrup. Eat a variety of vegetables daily. Enjoy fresh salads with low-calories, low- salt dressings.

Water

Drink six to eight glasses of water a day. Vary the routine with a twist of lemon or occasional herbal teas.

Hearty breakfasts

Enjoy hot, multi-grain cereals, fresh fruit, and whole-wheat toast. Jump start your day!

Balazs Inc. announces the release of its latest product, the i-Box Speed Bag Platform for home gyms. Read all about the exciting new product on-line.