The Right Hook
The fourth punch that you are going to learn in boxing is the right hook (orthodox fighter), the hook done with your rear hand.
There is really nothing new here, it is the same as a lead hook but done with your rear hand, while your lower body moves as you are throwing the straight right.
Furthermore, because in boxing almost 95% of the time we put our dominant hand as rear hand in our fighting stance, most of the people will find very easy to throw this power punch.
So let’s get straight to the execution of the perfect right hook.
Execution of the right hook
From your boxing stance:
- Bend your knees slightly as you step the lead heel down while pivoting inward on the rear foot (it’s the same movement of the straight right).
- Follow the rotation of your lower body with your upper body.
- As you are rotating to the left bring your right hand through in a circular motion.
- Bend Your Arm at a 90 Degrees Angle as your shoulder will protect your chin.
- Tighten your fist as it connects into your opponent.
- Proper positioning of the fist: there is some discussion in boxing about the position of your fist. I’ve been taught to keep the palm down, but other fighters throw the hook with the palm pointing towards them. My advice is to try throwing it from different distances with different orientations of the palm and after some experimentation choose what you find yourself most comfortable.
- After the execution come back to your fighting stance by reversing the movement.
Key points to remember
Remember that has the other power punches, the power comes from the ground; it starts with your lower body and your upper body has to follow.
As usual stay in balance, be relaxed, exhale after each punch, and move your lead hand closer to the chin.
Mastering the right hook
Like all the other punches, mastering the right hook is essential as it will add a tremendous weapon to your arsenal.
The right hook can be used both in mid-close range as well in long range, but for the latter just remember that because the rear hand is further away from your opponent than your lead one, this punch takes more time to land and leaves you more open to counters. Keep this in mind when learning the right hook and of course, train it every day.
You should be able to shift from the lead hook to the rear hook and vice versa in a smooth way.
I found this video very informative and helpful in teaching the correct form for both the lead and rear hook. Check it out:
