Distracting Factors

I recently had a boxer express the goal of working on trying to not only remember to move her head but also throw punches at the same time. While an obvious aspect of boxing, it is a lot easier said than done. I find many athletes either focus on punching, or on defense ie just moving their head, and forget to puzzle piece them together. In addition to this crucial aspect, I have also noticed that as boxers first start sparring they get easily thrown of or distracted by getting hit. This leads to pausing or freezing, forgetting the move they were setting up, or frustration which can distort the amount of times they are actually getting hit. It reminds me of a sibling constantly poking your arm, or sticking a finger in the face without touching and saying “not touching not touching!” The mental fight of not getting aggravated by getting hit is very interesting, and a challenge to coach out of people. To tell someone to not get bothered by punches is like telling someone to ignore an itch. 

So how do we coach this challenge beyond telling an athlete to “get over it?” I frequently tell boxers to invite the punches, almost wanting them. The second an opponent punches it sets up an opportunity to counter as an opening has occurred. You want your opponent to punch. Without punches you never have an opportunity to hit. Reserving this mentality, of wanting the other person to punch, helps lesson aggravation when actually getting hit. I feel that it also helps sharpen reactions and avoid punches! The lack of surprise or frustration helps a boxer to let their training kick in and react appropriately.