Boxing lunging: the complete guide to working it

Understanding the importance of reach in boxing

Definition of reach in boxing

In boxing, reach is quite simply the maximum distance you can reach with your fists, arms fully extended, in a boxing match. guard position. This measurement is crucial, as it defines your ability to hit your opponent while remaining at a distance that protects you from counters. This is not to be confused with reach, which is the distance from one hand to the other when your arms are extended horizontally. Reach focuses solely on the range of your shots.

The benefits of a good extension

• Keeping your distance from your opponent A good reach enables you to keep your opponent at a distance and prevent him from getting too close to you.
• Strike without being hit Thanks to its superior reach, you can hit your opponent without him being able to reach you easily. A great way to stay out of range of counter-attacks.
• Controlling the pace of the fight With good control of your reach, you can dictate the pace of the fight, deciding when to engage or when to stay safe.

Calculate and know your draw length

Method for calculating the extension

All you need to know about your reach is a simple rule: measure the distance from your fingertips, with your arm extended, to the opposite shoulder. This will give you an accurate estimate of your reach in combat. Use a tape measure for accurate measurements. If you don't have this tool to hand, a rope or tape can do the trick, taking care to follow the length of your arm. Always measure both arms to avoid a difference between the two sides, which could affect your boxing.

Understanding your morphology

Your body shape plays an important role in your reach. In general, taller boxers have a longer reach, but this is not a hard and fast rule. Some people of average height can have a longer reach than you'd expect. On the other hand, a stockier body type, with broad shoulders and a massive torso, can limit the reach of the arms. So it's crucial to understand that reach doesn't just depend on height, but also on the proportion between your limbs and your trunk. The better you know your body, the more you can adjust your techniques to make the most of your reach.

Techniques to improve your reach

Specific stretching exercises

Improving your reach starts with greater flexibility. Targeted stretching is essential to release tension in the shoulders, back and arms. Exercises such as the stretching shoulder stretches, where you hold your arm out in front of you and gently pull with the other hand, will increase your range of movement. Don't forget to stretch your back too, especially when you're lying down with your arms stretched above your head. What's the point? Gain a few extra centimetres by lengthening your muscles and improving joint mobility.

Targeted muscle strengthening

To maximise your reach, it's not enough to be flexible: you also need to strengthen the muscles that stabilise your movements. The triceps, deltoids and back muscles play a key role in extending your arms. Exercises such as diamond pumpsThese exercises, which target the triceps, or sets of lateral raises for the shoulders, help you to maintain full, controlled extension when striking. Good muscle strengthening allows you to hit further while remaining stable and precise.

Technical work on the punching bag

And finally.., the punching bag is the ideal tool for working on your extension in a realistic context. Concentrate on extending your arms as far as possible with each stroke, while making sure you rotate your torso. This rotation, often neglected, can increase your reach by several centimetres. Work on your movements too: a good footwork allows you to keep your distance while extending your arm as far as possible. This type of training will make your shots longer and more effective, especially in real-life combat situations.

Strategies for using your reach in combat

Using jab

THE jab is the main weapon for exploiting your reach in boxing. An effective jab not only allows you to hit your opponent while staying out of range, but also to control the pace of the fight. To maximise the impact of your jab, make sure your arm is well extended and that you accompany the movement with a slight rotation of your torso. Variations on the jab, such as the double jab where the jab in reverseThese are advanced techniques that will help you maintain distance while preventing your opponent from getting any closer. You'll be able to hit him without being vulnerable.

Long-range shot combinations

Exploiting your reach isn't limited to the jab. Linking up long-range shots, such as a jab-directThis is a way of keeping your opponent at a distance while maintaining pressure. These combinations must be quick and precise to surprise your opponent and prevent him from finding an opening. You can also use distance hooks by pivoting your hips slightly to increase the reach of your arm. The idea is to constantly force your opponent to stay away from you, while inflicting blows that he can't anticipate.

Distance management

Distance management is crucial to maximising your reach. Your footwork must be fluid and responsive to enable you to maintain the gap between you and your opponent. Use lateral steps and light dodging to avoid attacks while remaining within striking range. Anticipating your opponent's movements is another key: if you can predict his attacks, you can position yourself to make optimum use of your reach. By controlling the distance, you can set the pace and minimise the risk of counter-attack.

Adapting your boxing style to your reach

Boxer with great reach

If you have a long reach, you have a natural advantage over your opponents. Your strategy should focus on managing distance and controlling the jab to keep your opponent at a distance. One of the main advantages of a long reach is the ability to hit your opponent without him being able to hit back. However, this requires good mobility to prevent them from getting too close. On the other hand, the disadvantage is that you may lack speed in close exchanges, where your reach becomes less useful. So opt for a style that capitalises on your range, staying mobile and avoiding prolonged hand-to-hand combat.

Boxer with medium or short reach

If you have a shorter follow-through, don't despair - there are effective strategies for compensating for this disadvantage. The most important thing is to shorten the distance quickly, using a footwork to get into your opponent's guard. The techniques of slipping (dodges) and head movement are essential to avoid your opponent's jabs while closing the distance. Once inside, hooks and uppercuts become your best allies. The fighting style for a shorter reach is therefore more aggressive, with a focus on pressure and rhythm to neutralise your opponent's reach advantage.

Common mistakes to avoid

Overestimation of its length

One of the most common mistakes in boxing is overestimating your reach. You might think you're out of range when your opponent, with good anticipation, can still hit you. This misjudgement leaves you open to dangerous counters. To avoid this, constantly adjust your perception of distance in combat. The key is to know exactly where your range limit is and always test the distance with a jab before launching more risky combinations. Regular practice in measuring distance accurately on the punching bag or with a partner will help you adjust this perception.

Neglect of bodywork

Another mistake is to neglect body shots on the pretext of having good reach. It's true that a long reach keeps you at a distance, but a boxer who focuses solely on the head becomes predictable. Varying your targets, including body shots, is essential to destabilise your opponent. Bodywork tires your opponent out more quickly and forces him to drop his guard, creating openings for strikes to the head. A good strategy should always include a variety of combinations to avoid being read too easily.

Conclusion

Working on your reach in boxing is essential if you want to be more effective. Whether you have a long reach or a short one, adapting your boxing style to this characteristic is crucial to maximising your performance. Knowing and improving your reach gives you an undeniable strategic advantage.

By practising stretching and strengthening exercises and improving your technique, you can make rapid progress. Using an effective jab and good distance management will enable you to dominate your opponents without taking unnecessary risks.

Want to go further? Check out our articles on rhythm management in boxing or how to improve your speed.

Enter the round

Join our 50-minute sessions at Le Cercle! Discover a dynamic atmosphere where water bag boxing is combined with specific fitness exercises, in a subdued setting with upbeat music.

There's no competition here, just you against the bag. These sessions are open to all levels. You'll do 10 rounds: 5 to strengthen your abs, legs, glutes and upper body, and 5 to refine your boxing techniques while boosting your cardio.

Ready to take up the challenge? Our coaches are waiting for you in Montmartre, Beaubourg or Bastille! 🔥