Ever stared at the heavy bag, unsure of what punches to throw? You’re definitely not alone! I remember my early days in boxing—let’s just say my bag work wasn’t bursting with creativity. It took time, research, and lots of dedication to get better.
But hey, I can help speed up the process for you! I’ve done the research on the top 6 punching bag combos you NEED to know. These are backed by hours of watching and learning from the pros!
By the way, if you’re looking for more boxing exercises and workouts, check this out!)
Pro boxers can throw over 300 combos in a 12-round fight. And guess what? It’s not just about hitting hard. Today, we’ll transform your skills with 6 AWESOME combos that pack a punch!
TL;DR:
- Left Uppercut-Cross-Left Body Hook (Golovkin’s gunshot)
- Right Body Hook-Left Uppercut (Tyson’s thunder)
- Jab-Cross-Jab-Cross-Left Hook (Bivol’s bomb)
- Right Body Hook-Left Body Hook-Right Uppercut-Left Uppercut (Leonard’s lightning)
- Slip-Cross-Left Hook- Left Body Hook (Canelo’s crusher)
- Jab-Overhand Right (Wilder’s whammy)
Hang tight as we dive into each knockout combo, sharing expert tips to boost your boxing skills and build up your confidence. Ready to discover the champ within you? Let’s jump right in!
Basic Principles
Before you jump into your heavy bag workout, it’s super important to get the basics down. Your stance and footwork are the foundation—stand balanced and keep light on your feet, ready to move quickly.
Focus on getting your form right. Nail that strong jab and precise uppercut. When you approach the bag, have a plan. Make sure each movement is on purpose.
If you’re just starting, check out our beginner’s boxing guide. And if you can, have a coach or an experienced friend watch your form to help you get better.
This training makes sure every punch counts, setting you up for some powerful combos. Ready to take it to the next level? Let’s dive into those combos!
Combo 1 – Gennady Golovkin
Left Uppercut-Cross-Left Body
Gennady Golovkin, or “GGG” as fans call him, is a famous boxer. His special combo—Left Uppercut, Cross, Left Body Hook—is great for up-close fights, keeping opponents on edge. Golovkin has a bunch of wins and titles, showing he’s not just strong but also smart.
Why should you add this combo to your training? It’s all about making your punches better.
The Left Uppercut breaks through defenses. The Cross delivers a strong hit. The Left Body Hook finishes the job.
Practicing these moves will sharpen your uppercut skills and give you more confidence in close fights.
Watch this video of Golovkin and see if you can spot the combo!
Combo 2 – Mike Tyson
Right Body Hook-Left Uppercut
Mike Tyson is a name every boxing fan knows. He’s famous for his super strong punches and the way he could scare any opponent. Being a shorter fighter myself, I really connect with Tyson’s style. His combo—Right Body Hook and Left Uppercut—is perfect for us who need to get up close to land a punch.
Want to spice things up? Try using an Uppercut Bag or an Aqua Bag. Switch to the Left Body Hook and then the Right Uppercut. Keep switching back and forth for a great workout.
Different bags work best for different punches, and we’ve got a list of all the bags you should be using.
Training with Tyson’s moves can really boost your boxing skills. The Right Body Hook is great for wearing down an opponent, and the Left Uppercut can land that winning shot.
As someone who can’t always reach high places, I know how important a good uppercut is!
So, if you want to punch like a champ, try this combo in your next session.
Combo 3 – Dmitry Bivol
Jab-Cross-Jab-Cross-Left Hook
Dmitry Bivol has really made waves in boxing with his intense style and long combos. His ‘Soviet style’ has made him a big name recently, especially with combos like Jab-Cross-Jab-Cross-Left Hook.
This combo isn’t just tricky to say; it’s a powerhouse move that keeps opponents guessing.
Adding Bivol’s combo to your skills can change the game. The repeated jab-cross hits are great for breaking through defenses, and the Left Hook is perfect for landing the knockout punch.
Practicing this can take your boxing combos to the next level.
So, if you want to up your game and maybe channel some of Bivol’s style, try this combo in your next session. Who knows? You might just surprise yourself!
Combination 4 – Sugar Ray Leonard
Right Body Hook-Left Body Hook-Right Uppercut
Sugar Ray Leonard is a boxing legend, famous for his speed and style. He quickly became a star with a unique way of mixing strength and elegance. One of his top combos—Right Body Hook, Left Body Hook, Right Uppercut, Left Uppercut—shows his skills perfectly.
If you love body hooks, this combo is perfect for training on a teardrop bag. It feels like a dance routine, with each punch hitting just right. The body hooks start things off, breaking down defenses, while the uppercuts finish strong.
Want to add some flair to your practice and honor Sugar Ray’s talent? Try out this combo. You might just find your new favorite move!
Combination 5 – Canelo Álvarez
Slip-Cross-Left Hook-Left Body Hook
Canelo Álvarez is a big name in boxing, and his combo—Slip-Cross-Left Hook-Left Body Hook—shows why he’s a top fighter. In this combo, the slip is the main star.
It’s not just a cool trick; it’s super important for dodging punches and getting ready to strike back.
Think of it like a secret ingredient that makes the whole combo come together perfectly.
After you slip past your opponent’s punch, the cross comes in quick and sharp. Then, the left hook and left body hook follow, landing with accuracy and force. This combo is like a well-planned symphony, where each punch has its own important role.
Combination 6 – Deontay Wilder
Deontay Wilder is known for his powerful and surprising style in the boxing ring. His Jab-Overhand Right combo might look simple, but don’t be fooled.
With long arms that seem to reach across the ring and a punch that packs a serious punch, Wilder makes this combo super effective. The jab is like the opening act, setting things up, while the overhand right steals the show with its powerful finish.
This combo is perfect for taller fighters with long arms.
Wilder’s style is all about strength and surprise, making every match exciting. So, if you want to add some of Wilder’s magic to your boxing skills, give this combo a try.
How To Add Them Into Your Workout
So you’ve decided which combos you want to try out. Now time to add them to your workout.
It’s simple, try each combination for at least 3/4 rounds of 2 minutes each (Increase the time this as your fitness increases).
You can even incorporate this into a HIIT workout by crazy fast for 30 seconds, then slowing down for another 30. This is a great way to boost your stamina and endurance.
Try to incorporate these combinations into your general training. Check out our boxing workout ideas if you need some inspiration.
Try mixing it up by focusing on speed and power for 1 round, then focusing on technique in the other.
FAQs
- Q: How often should I practice these punching bag combinations?
A: Aim to practice 3-4 times a week to build muscle memory and improve your technique. Consistency is key, but always listen to your body and rest when needed. - Q: Can beginners try these punching bag combinations?
A: Absolutely! Start slow, focus on technique, and gradually increase speed and power as you become more comfortable. It’s important to learn the basics first. - Q: How do I ensure I’m using the right form on the punching bag?
A: Keep your hands up, maintain your balance, and pivot on your feet. Consider recording yourself or asking a coach for feedback to fine-tune your form. - Q: What can I do if I feel stuck in my progress?
A: Mix up your routine with new combinations or incorporate different workouts, like Boxing Calisthenics Workouts. Challenge yourself to keep improving. - Q: How do these combinations help in a real fight?
A: They build speed, power, and strategy, helping you react quickly and effectively in a match. Practice regularly to develop confidence and muscle memory.
