How to Punch Without Tension

Throwing quick, snapping punches keeps your opponent on his toes and also allows you to put together punch combinations that your opponent cannot stop. One thing that prevents you from throwing such combinations is tension in your body. Tension prevents your arms from having a "snapping" motion, and it also causes you to tire out faster while in the ring. Learning how to eliminate such tension and then practicing these quick punches on a bag helps make you a well-rounded fighter.

Instructions

    • 1

      Think about and visualize the punch or punch combination. Imagine your hand making light contact with the target rather than hitting it flush. Remember that you're not going for the knockout when throwing such punches.

    • 2

      Keep your hand loose through the entire punching motion until immediately before striking the target. This prevents tension in the wrists and arms, allowing your punches to flow as desired.

    • 3

      Stay on your toes as you prepare to throw punches. Sustaining this movement as you throw punches prevents unwanted tension in your legs, which also keeps your upper body loose.

    • 4

      Exhale quickly with each snapping punch. Taking quick, short breaths aids you in making quick punches, or punches made when your body and arms are loose.

    • 5

      Practice punching on a speed bag. Using the speed bag on a daily basis teaches your arms and body to remain loose, as you won't be able to hit the bag properly, accurately or with any consistency if you are tight.