Footwork drills are some of the most important boxing drills someone can do while training to become a better boxer. A key part of footwork in boxing or kickboxing is taking a step before throwing a punch. The step is what gets you into fighting range and out of fighting range--or as I like to say, "get into fighting range to swell lips up and out of fighting range so your lips don’t get swelled up!" Fighters need to know how to do both of these techniques. In addition to getting you into or out of range, learning the proper step technique gives your punches power.
Here are three (3) boxing footwork drills that you can practice to help you step into or away from a punch. These drills are appropriate for all boxer levels.
What You Will Need:
Instructions:
Place the agility ladder around the base of your heavy bag. Be sure to smooth it down to avoid a tripping hazard.
You're going to practice each of these drills for three minutes.
Don’t worry about going fast until you feel comfortable. You move slowly before you can move quickly
Footwork Drills | 3 minutes each
Drill #1: Step + Jab
Stand in your boxing stance with your lead foot just up against the back of the agility ladder that is around the base of your bag
Step your lead foot into the agility ladder as you throw your jab and it lands on the bag
Step out of the agility ladder as you return to your boxing stance
Repeat for 3 minutes
Drill #2: Step + Jab + Cross
Stand in your boxing stance with your lead foot just up against the back of the agility ladder that is placed around the base of your heavy bag
Step your lead foot into the agility ladder as you throw your jab and it lands on the bag
As you throw your cross, your rear foot comes up to the back edge of the agility ladder
Step out of the agility ladder as you return to your boxing stance
Repeat for 3 minutes
Drill #3: Pendulum Step + Uppercuts
Stand in the agility ladder, squared off to the bag
Throw a right uppercut to the heavy bag
Step so that as you move laterally, one foot replaces the other in the agility ladder. This is called a pendulum step.
Throw a left uppercut to the heavy bag
Repeat the pendulum step
Repeat for 3 minutes
These drills will enhance your ability to be quick and light on your feet. Many fighters think that punching is key, but is actually a balancing act between both punching and footwork that sets fighters apart from their competition.
For more great boxing tips, training, and resources, check out the FightCamp YouTube channel and blog.
Are you ready to train like a fighter? Get access to hundreds of boxing, kickboxing, strength, conditioning, recovery, and stretching workouts that will push you mentally and physically. Download the FREE FightCamp App and train with real fighters from the comfort of your own home.
Related Articles
Boxing Footwork Drills For Defense and Sparring
Boxing Footwork Drills For Beginners
Boxing Movement and Footwork Training: Slip Rope Drill
Boxing Movement and Footwork Training: Tennis Ball Drill
How Do Boxers Train For a Fight?