Boxing
Southpaw Boxing Stance
The southpaw boxing stance is a right-foot-forward guard with the left hand behind as the rear power hand. It develops balance and control for punching, defending, and moving.
- Beginner
- Low injury risk
- Rest 30 sec
How to do it
- Stand with your right foot one short step ahead of your left, keeping about hip-width space between their tracks.
- Bend your knees slightly.
- Angle your torso with your right shoulder slightly forward.
- Raise your hands into guard, with your right fist ahead of your right cheek and your left fist beside your chin.
- Hold this position for the allotted time.
- Lower your hands to end the hold.
- Step your feet back to a comfortable standing position.
Form cues
- Keep your weight centered between your feet.
- Let your rear heel stay light.
- Tuck your chin slightly.
- Keep elbows close to your ribs.
Common mistakes
- Standing on a tightropeMove your left foot slightly sideways so each foot has its own track.
- Taking an overly long stanceShorten the distance between your feet until you can shift your weight without leaning.
- Shrugging your shouldersRelax your shoulders while keeping your fists in guard.
Safety
Forcing your feet into an uncomfortable angle can strain your knees or ankles. Fatigue or slippery footing can make you lose balance.
- Practice on a dry, nonslip surface with clear space around you.
- Let your knees point in the same direction as your toes.
- End the hold when you can no longer maintain your position comfortably.
If you have knee or ankle pain or difficulty balancing, use a shorter, comfortable stance or seek advice from a physiotherapist before practicing.
Muscles worked
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
Equipment
No equipment needed.
Sets and reps
- Sets
- 2–3
- Target
- 20–40 seconds
- Rest
- 30 sec
Start with a stationary hold before adding punches or footwork.