Understanding boxing range
Range is your position relating to your opponent. If you are in range, you can hit your opponent, and they can hit you. If you are out of range, you can’t hit your opponent, and they can’t hit you.
Range has three phases — long, mid and short. These phases dictate your tactics, punch, and defence selections. For example, you should use the jab and cross at long to mid-range. The bent arm nature of hooks and uppercuts makes them more suitable at mid to short-range. Defences that work at long-range may not be appropriate at short-range.
Let's look at a scenario: Ian is tall and holds a sizeable reach (arm length) advantage over Neil, who is short. Ian’s longer arms offer an immediate advantage. At long range, Ian can hit Neil, but Neil cannot hit Ian. Damn you, Ian!
Ian’s long arms give him an advantage at long range
It’s in Ian’s best interests to maintain that long range. He must keep Neil on the end of a crisp jab and cross. But want about poor Neil? Does he shrug and accept his physical disadvantage? Does he eat those punches for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? No, Sir. The smaller boxer has to move the action to mid and short range. At this range those long arms lose their primacy, and even become a liability.
It’s at this point that boxing gets fascinating. It becomes a game of chess.
Ian uses good footwork to keep Neil at long range.
Neil attempts to get into closer range, while avoiding punishing long range punches.
Ian wants to take the centre of the ring, as it offers space and a choice of direction to move.
Neil attempts to manoeuvre the action towards a corner of the ring, to limit these options.
Each boxer will use the punches and defences they have at their disposal. They dip into their toolkit to get the job done. Take the time to fill your tool kit. Learn these skills and understand how to best use them.
