Usually, people think boxing is all about punching and combinations, but professionals know that footwork is essential. By learning advanced boxing, you will realize that each aspect of boxing plays a vital role in attacking and defending, and everything is related to proper footwork.    

Footwork is the foundation of boxing as it portrays the boxing skills that will enable you to move around with the least effort. Stable footwork allows positioning and distance between your feet and the boxer’s feet. In modern boxing, footwork is the foundation of all moves and punches, so one must practice well with suitable boxing gloves to get the most comfortable position.    

Basics of Footwork in Boxing    

• Developing specific footwork skills and techniques will allow any fighter to overcome challenging situations and potential openings.   

• Synchronized footwork is essential for attacking and defending, and controlling the outcome.    
• Practicing footwork drills while boxing gloves on will enhance speed and endurance to last longer in any fight.    
• Although there are no footwork rules, various techniques to follow will give an advantage over the opponent. So, one must focus on basics to be perfect while performing such procedures at the core and pick your style and then get strong in it.    
• If anyone lacks in learning fundamentals of footwork, you won’t be able to defend as they have no idea how to utilize footwork properly.    

   Feet positioning    

• One must start with feet placed shoulder distance apart.    
• Move your right foot back a little that should be more than shoulder distance.    
• Placement of the legs far apart is a disadvantage in modern style boxing as it can lower the boxer’s movement and lower the boxer’s height.    
• Practice should raise fighter on the balls of the feet while slightly bent knees and the right foot heel is elevated 3-4 cm whereas the front foot heel is elevated 1-2 cm.     

• This foot position will make the fighter lean forward slightly to give the speed of movement. Remember to keep your front foot between your opponent and maintain the primary function and stance.    
• Never cross your feet or never bring them together.    
• Always start with a close distance between the feet while learning basics, and use premium quality boxing gloves to ensure safety during practice.    

   Efficient pivoting    

Emphasize pivoting in every martial art that helps to create angles and openings. Pivoting is small but the most crucial element affecting footwork.    

Boxing is about the importance of movement, power, accuracy, and efficiency. When you start pivoting, keep your weight on both feet with your hands in front of you. Many professionals pivot fluidly and instantaneously to stand out during a fight.    

• Push off your back foot   
• Use the momentum to turn 45-degree in every angel while using your toe   
• Keep changing the directions in the ring   

• Quickly slide your back foot to follow your pivot your movement    
• Learn well to pivot, enter a new angel and return to your original position   

   Short and explosive steps    

While practicing footwork techniques, practice short and explosive steps to stay near your opponent. One must maintain the range and focus on the distance where they can effectively land a punch without the need to outstretch. Use your footwork to evade, dodge or dictate the speed of the fight.    

One must practice well by moving inward and outward while staying near the edge of the range. Focus on short explosive movements to launch an attack or to step out of any incoming attack.    

• The movements should be within 6-8 cm    
• Initiate by pushing off the back foot   
• Use momentum to rotate while using your front use your front toe at a 45-degree angle   
• Synchronize and follow the initial movement    

   Practicing diagonal movements    

Diagonal movements make you highly efficient inside the ring. The fighter will follow the line of your lead foot while keeping your spine straight, activities short and avoiding crossing your feet. Start moving forward and move back to the right while making it simple.    

Try pushing off your back foot with an explosive step forward, move along with the angle of the lead foot, and point towards the correct direction.   

   Is stepping on foot legal in boxing?    

There are specific boxing rules to maintain the spirit of the sport while making it fair. The rules cover everything inside the cage, including what is or is not allowed. Such as:    

• One must land a punch with a clenched fist and never strike below the belt.    
• Do not hit the kidneys or the back of your opponent’s head or neck   
• Never use ropes for leverage to attack   

• One cannot beat an opponent when they are down   
• So, stepping on foot is a wrestling move that is not allowed in boxing, therefore, illegal.    

   A concluded Note:    

We have learned a lot about the importance of footwork while boxing and even learned to practice and perform it well. But any boxer must keep this thing in mind they cannot step on the feet of an opponent purposely as it is illegal. Stepping on your opponent’s feet will make him lose his balance and concentration and prevent him from landing a hook or cross. Check out Starpro combat gear, including boxing gloves, to practice well for a fair game without performing fouls.