Attacking technique in boxing helps the boxer to gain necessary balance and support. In modern day boxing stance is a clear reflection of present system of rules employed by professional boxing. It is dissimilar in more ways than one from the classical boxing stances of 19th and early 20th centuries.

Punches -- When it comes to punching, there are four basic punches that are present namely: the Jab, Cross, Hook and Uppercut. For an orthodox right hand boxer, his left hand is the lead hand; his right hand is the rear hand. A right hand boxer is described as orthodox and southpaw or unorthodox is referred to left-handed boxers.

Jab - Jab is actually a quick, direct punch thrown with lead hand from the guard position. The jab is often accompanied by small, clockwise rotation of hips and torso, while the fist rotates 90 degrees, becoming horizontal upon impact. As soon as the punch reaches full extension, in order to guard the chin, lead shoulder is brought up for guard. The rear hand remains next to the face to guard the jaw.

Once the contact is made with the target, the lead hand is quickly retracted to resume a guard position in front of the face. This is an essential punch in a boxer`s arsenal as it provides fair amount of its own cover and also it leaves the least amount of space for the counterpunch for opponent. It has a long reach and does not need a massive weight transfer. The jab, due to its relatively weak power, is used as a tool to measure distances, probe an opponent`s defences and also set up heavier and powerful punches. Half of the step can also be added helping to move the body into the punch, for extra power generation. However, despite the lack of raw power, the jab is considered to be most important punch in boxing.

Cross - This is a powerful straight punch thrown with the back hand. From the stance of a guard position, the back hand is thrown from the chin, cross the body and travelling in a straight line towards the target. The back shoulder is pushed forward and finishes just touching the outside of the chin. And at same time the lead hand is retreated and tucked against the face. For added power and aggression, the hip and torso are moved in a counter clockwise direction. Weight is also transferred from the rear foot to the lead foot, resulting in the rear heel turning outwards as it acts as a fulcrum for the transfer of weight. Body rotation and the sudden weight transfer is what gives the cross its power. Like the jab, a half-step forward may be added. After the cross is thrown, the hand is retracted quickly and the guard position resumed.

Hook - A hook is actually a semi circular punch that is thrown with the lead hand to the side of the opponent`s head. The elbow is drawn back from guard position with a horizontal fist (knuckles pointing forward) and bent elbow. The back hand is firmly tucked against the jaw to protect the chin. The hips and torso are rotated clockwise, propelling the fist through a tight, clockwise arc across front part of body and connecting the target. Apropos, the lead foot rotates clockwise, turning outward the left heel. Upon contact the hook`s circular path abruptly ends and the lead hand is pulled quickly back into the guard position. This shot also targets the lower part of the body and this technique is sometimes called the rip to distinguish it from the conventional hook to the head. The hook may also be thrown with the rear hand.

Uppercut - This is the vertical, rising punch that is thrown with the back hand. From the guard position, the body shifts slowly to the right, the back hand then drops below the level of opponent`s chests and knees are bent in a minor way. From this position the back hand is pushed up in a rising arc toward the opponent torso and chin.

Similarly, the knees quickly push upward and the body and hips rotate counter clockwise and the back heel turn outward, mimicking the body movement of the cross. The tactical utility of the uppercut depend on the ability to lift the opponent body, setting it off-balance for successive attacks. The right uppercut followed by a left hook is a deadly combination. These various punching types can be combined to form combs like cross combo and jab.

Nicknamed the one two combo, it is a really effective combination because the jab blinds the opponent and the cross is powerful enough to knock the opponent out.