Kickboxing
Partner Slip and Counter Drill
The partner slip and counter drill pairs a small head movement with a controlled return punch. It trains defensive timing, balance, and coordination through a cooperative, non-contact exchange.
- Intermediate
- Compound
- Moderate injury risk
- Rest 45 sec
How to do it
- Face your partner in a staggered fighting stance with the same foot forward as theirs.
- Raise your gloves beside your cheeks.
- Have your partner feed one slow jab that stops short of your face.
- Move your head just outside their punching arm using a small knee bend and torso turn.
- Return one rear-hand straight punch, stopping clearly short of your partner.
- Bring your punching glove back to your cheek.
- Return to your starting stance and distance before the next feed.
Form cues
- Keep your eyes on their upper chest.
- Keep your chin tucked.
- Keep your weight between your feet.
Common mistakes
- Slipping too farMove only enough to clear the punch line so you remain balanced for the counter.
- Folding forward at the waistKeep your torso upright rather than ducking your face toward the floor.
- Reaching with the counterUse a comfortable punching range without leaning toward your partner.
Safety
Poor distance control or unexpected punches can cause accidental head contact, including concussion. Rushing the slip can also strain your neck or lower back.
- Use a trained partner; agree on the exact feed, response, and stop signal before starting.
- Keep both punches non-contact even if the defender misses the slip; do not add follow-ups or turn the drill into sparring.
- Check that your wraps and gloves are secure and the mat is clear and nonslip.
- End the set immediately if either person's timing, balance, or control deteriorates.
If you have neck pain, dizziness, or a recent head injury, get medical guidance before attempting this partner drill.
Muscles worked
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
Equipment
- Boxing Training Gloves
- Combat Training Mat
- Hand Wraps
Sets and reps
- Sets
- 2–3
- Target
- 6–10 reps
- Rest
- 45 sec
Count one slip-counter sequence as one rep; complete the prescribed reps in each role.