Combination punching is what separates boxing from hit-and-hope striking. Learning to link punches together fluidly — with defence in between — is the foundation of technical boxing.
These 10 combinations cover the beginner curriculum. Work them in the order listed. Each combination builds on the one before, adding length and complexity gradually.
The Standard Number System
Most boxing coaches use a numbered punch system:
- 1 — Jab (lead hand, straight punch)
- 2 — Cross (rear hand, straight punch)
- 3 — Lead hook (lead hand, horizontal arc)
- 4 — Rear hook (rear hand, horizontal arc)
- 5 — Lead uppercut
- 6 — Rear uppercut
In the combinations below, numbers refer to this system. Southpaw (left-hand dominant) fighters reverse 1/2 and 3/4.
Combination 1: Double Jab (1-1)
Two jabs in succession. The first jab creates distance and tests your opponent's reaction; the second jab fires into the same corridor while they're processing the first one.
Focus: Full extension on both. Return hand to guard between jabs.
Combination 2: Jab-Cross (1-2)
The most fundamental combination in boxing. The jab sets range and draws a reaction; the cross follows the same line with significantly more power.
Focus: Plant the back foot before throwing the cross. Hip rotation on the cross.
Combination 3: Jab-Cross-Slip (1-2-slip)
Your first defensive integration. After the 1-2, slip your head offline — bend the knees and lean slightly to the outside of where a counter would come.
This teaches you that offence and defence combine in the same sequence rather than alternating.
Combination 4: Jab-Cross-Lead Hook (1-2-3)
The first three-punch combination most beginners learn. The cross opens the opponent's guard; the lead hook comes from an unexpected angle.
Focus: The hook arrives at ear height. Pivot on the lead foot as you throw. Elbow parallel to the floor.
Combination 5: Jab-Cross-Lead Hook-Cross (1-2-3-2)
Four punches. After the hook, return hand to guard and fire a second cross. This combination ends with your power hand, which is where you want to finish most combinations.
Combination 6: Double Jab-Cross (1-1-2)
An alternative entry. The double jab disrupts timing before the cross lands. Useful when your opponent has started timing your single jab.
Combination 7: Jab-Lead Hook (1-3)
Two punches, two different lines. The jab goes straight; the hook curves from the outside. This combination is effective against opponents who protect well against straight punches.
Combination 8: Cross-Lead Hook-Cross (2-3-2)
Starting with the rear hand (cross) is unusual and catches opponents expecting the standard jab-cross entry. Follow with a hook and end with another cross.
Use only from close range where the cross can land without being telegraphed.
Combination 9: Lead Uppercut-Lead Hook (5-3)
Both punches from the same hand on different lines — uppercut goes vertically, hook comes horizontally. The combination works at close range when an opponent leans forward.
Combination 10: Jab-Cross-Lead Uppercut-Rear Uppercut (1-2-5-6)
The full four-punch combination that begins to approximate what advanced boxing looks like. Start the 5-6 uppercuts while ducking slightly — a basic inside fighting position.
Drilling Combinations
Drill each combination in this order of progression:
- Shadow boxing — slow, perfect technique
- Shadow boxing — match speed
- Bag work — moderate pace, focusing on accuracy
- Bag work — fight pace
- Pad work with a coach — applied combination
Spend at least one full week on each combination before moving to the next. Combinations 1–5 should form the core of your first three months of training.
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