How To Slip Punches In Boxing | Boxing Training

Boxing, just like the sport of football, is a game of inches. The ultimate goal comes down to: hit and not get hit, it's that simple. Everyone loves a good old-fashioned slug fest when they watch boxing, but that's not the only way to win a fight. Sometimes, the best way to win a fight is to not get hit, fight defensively, and avoid your opponents’ haymakers. Floyd Mayweather, arguably the best defensive fighter of all time, has yet to be ousted by an opponent, and his boxing game thrives off of avoiding the big shots. One of the main ways he reigns supreme is being able to utilize and master the art of slipping punches.

Slipping Punches

What exactly does it mean to slip a punch? Slipping punches in the simplest of terms refer to dodging punches. When you slip, you move your head from side-to-side, just enough to get out of the way of the punch–and not a centimeter more. That being said, you also want to make sure not to “over slip”, as that is inefficient, wastes energy, and you take yourself out of position for a counter punch.

The Mechanics

The slip is a compound, 3-axis motion. Today, FightCamp Co-Founder and Trainer Tommy Duquette will break down the mechanics of slipping an opponent's punch. Being able to master these mechanics will help take your boxing game and boxing defense to the next level.

Pro tip: Use a full length mirror while learning these techniques so you can pay attention to your form.

Lead Side Slip

• Start in an athletic boxer’s stance, with your hands up in guard; alternatively, you can start in a “peek-a-boo” stance

• Visualize a straight punch coming at your face in slow motion

• Pivot your rear foot while opening up your stance and moving your head off the centerline

• At the same time, slightly bend your torso towards your lead side

  • Your shoulders should form a diagonal line; for Orthodox stance boxers, your right shoulder should be higher than your left shoulder

  • Your lead knee should have a slight bend

Rear Side Slip

• Start in an athletic boxer’s stance, with your hands up in guard; alternatively you can start in a “peek-a-boo” stance

• Visualize a straight punch coming at your face in slow motion

• Pivot your lead foot while opening up your stance and moving your head off the centerline

• At the same time, slightly bend your torso towards your rear side

  • Your shoulders should form a diagonal line; for Orthodox stance boxers, your right shoulder should be lower than your left shoulder

  • Make sure to transfer your weight from your lead side to your rear side as you slip

Stringing Slips Side-To-Side

• Start in an athletic boxer’s stance, with your hands up in guard; alternatively you can start in a “peek-a-boo” stance

• Visualize a straight punch coming at your face in slow motion

• Begin slipping to your lead side, pause, then slide to your rear side

• Continue slipping to both sides, pausing with each slip

Key Points:

• Make sure to pivot your feet

• Keep your knees slightly bent

• Remember that you are moving your head off centerline

• With each slip, be sure to dip your shoulders appropriately

The True Art of Boxing

That's the slip. Repeat these drills slowly and steadily to really learn and master each movement. Pay attention to the positioning of your body. We recommend using a mirror to check your mechanics until you’ve nailed the steps. Once slipping punches feels almost like second nature, you can progress to practicing with a partner to get a better feel for timing and sequencing. Always, remember the goal: make them miss, make them pay–that’s the true art of boxing.

Are you ready to slip punches and 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 like Tommy from the comfort of your own home.