Learn How To Change Levels For Landing Punches | Boxing 101

Boxing is just like a game of chess - a well executed move can help determine the entire outcome of a match. In boxing, a great way to control the outcome of the fight is by utilizing the art of changing levels. Changing levels helps you to create openings for your punches and can be a power move when set up and properly executed.

FightCamp Co-Founder and Trainer Tommy Duquette will take you through some of the basics of changing levels in boxing. As Tommy likes to say, “in boxing you have to often manipulate the defense of your opponent in order to land punches that you want to land.” Easier said than done right? However, once you begin to get the hang of changing levels, it can help you create punching opportunities that wouldn't have existed before.

Changing Levels: Different Combinations

Here are three (3) different punching combination drills that teach you the basics of changing levels. The first two combos were made famous by the legendary boxer, Mickey Ward, a master of changing levels during his bouts. The third punch combo was made famous by the one and only, “Iron” Mike Tyson. The combos may seem simple, but the combos have to be performed quickly and efficiently, only after conditioning your opponent, to properly open up punching opportunities. These drills will make it easier for you to land your punches and keep your opponents guessing next time you’re in the ring (or practicing on the heavy bag)!

Lead Hook Combo

• Assume a short range boxing stance with your hands up in defensive guard (or peek-a-boo technique)

• Keep your knees bent and your center of gravity low

• Begin the punch combo by throwing a Lead Hook to the head

• Immediately shift your weight back towards your lead foot, bending your knees

• Simultaneously throw a Lead Hook punch, driving the hook to the body

Rear Hook Combo

• Assume a short range boxing stance with your hands up in defensive guard (or peek-a-boo technique)

• Keep your knees bent and your center of gravity low

• Begin the punch combo by throwing a Rear Hook to the head

• Immediately shift your weight back towards your lead foot, bending your knees

• Simultaneously throw a Rear Hook, driving the Hook to the body

Mike Tyson Combo

• Assume a short range boxing stance with your hands up in defensive guard (or peek-a-boo technique)

• Keep your knees bent and your center of gravity low

• Begin combo by delivering a Rear Hook to the body

• Retract your punch and deliver a second consecutive Rear Hook to the body

• Continue the punch combination by throwing a Rear Uppercut to the head

• Finish off the punch combination with a Lead Hook to the head

Up, Down, and All Around

Those are just three (3) of the endless boxing punch combinations you can string together that illustrate changing levels. Learning how to change levels is especially helpful and advantageous. Even if you’re not competing in the ring, changing levels is a boxing skill that teaches you discipline and technique. Remember: practice, practice, and practice some more!

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.