A boxer's hands are used for both offense and defense. But consistently holding up the hands in proper boxing position is not a natural pose for most people, and after a few seconds, it's not uncommon to experience fatigue in the arms. Learn more about the importance of keeping your hands up as well as some tips to make it a habit when you're in the ring.

Why You Need to Keep Your Hands Up

Holding your hands up will guard you against an opponent's blows and protect your face from serious injuries, such as a dislocated jaw, tooth loss, a broken nose, black eyes, and concussions.

Keeping your hands in place also ensures you’re ready to deliver hits of your own. You don’t need to waste precious seconds bringing your hands into striking position. 

Tips

Build muscle memory so the appropriate hand positioning becomes second nature. Start by shadowboxing in front of a mirror, if possible. Check that you keep your hands up at all times and with every movement.

During the first round, focus solely on hand position. In the second, add in defensive techniques while still being mindful of your hands’ location. In subsequent rounds, introduce punches and note hand placement before, during, and after your throws.

Next, move on to the punching bag. Have a partner on the other side of the bag, moving it around to present you with different punching angles. Keep your attention on returning your hands to your face after every punch.

One helpful trick to continue holding the hands up is to lean slightly forward. The natural tendency when leaning forward is to put the hands up to better distribute balance throughout the body. It shouldn't be a pronounced lean, however. Simply lean the head a bit over the shoulders and the shoulders slightly over the hips.

To work on hand placement and other skills with a boxing professional, contact Tessa Moon of TM Productions. A champion female boxer and coach, she possesses a wealth of talent and experience in the art and sport of boxing. For over a decade, Tessa has been working and training with some of the most skilled fighters in the Honolulu, HI, area. To work with her, contact TM Productions by calling (808) 291-7817 or visiting their website.