The Russian Boxing Step Jab
The Russian boxing step-jab is so named because I learned it from a Russian boxing coach. It allows you to extend your reach while keeping your head further from your opponent’s reach.
Key Tips to the Russian Boxing Step Jab
Step forward with an internally rotated foot
This allows you to get more power on your punch by encouraging rotation. It also helps you dig your foot into the ground so you can push backwards quickly… deliver the payload and get out.
Allow rotation through your body
As your foot internally rotates your body will naturally rotate and so will your fist. Don’t try to rotate through your arm or shoulder. Just allow whatever natural rotation to happen as a result of your body rotating.
Lead from your fist
Like any punch that you don’t want telegraphed you must ensure to start the punch with your fist moving forward. Not your elbow first, not your shoulder first, the fist.
Protect your teeth and nose
As I have taught over and over put your guard hand up and forward to protect against your opponent’s simultaneous straight punch. Gotta protect that money maker!
Protect your jawline (aka the button)
Raise your punching shoulder and tuck your chin to hide your jawline. When people get hit on the jaw they often get knocked out, that is the reason it is called the button, or the off switch. This will help you guard against hooks or outer gate punches on the side that you are jabbing with. The other side has your guard hand that can move out to defend it.
Use it as a test
Did it land? Follow up with additional strikes. Did it get defended or miss? Push off with your lead foot and retreat out of your opponent’s range.
Summary
The Russian boxing step jab is a great lead entry strike to set up your Rapid Assault Tactics Straight Blast and Thai Clench so you can quickly end the fight.
It is easy to get your reps as you don’t need a partner. You just need to commit to doing the work. Try finding a time every day where you can do 5 – 20 reps focusing on technique and you will see amazing progress.
Until next time,
Brian Copeland
