Every boxer gets punched hard at some point. When it happens during a match, you have to recover as quickly as possible. Shake off the pain and keep fighting by following these tips. 

How to Recover From a Hard Punch

1. Form a Defensive Shell

Give yourself time to recover with a defensive guard. If you’re new to boxing, one of the simplest and most effective guards is the defensive shell.

Place your hands on your forehead with index fingers touching in the middle. Open your hands slightly, so your gloves offer more protection, and keep your elbows at your sides to shield your body. Keep an eye on your opponent through your gloves.

2. Breathe Properly 

After a hard punch, many new boxers forget to breathe properly. Panicked breathing depletes your energy and leaves you open to more punches.

To breathe while boxing, exhale at the end of each punch you throw. If you’re in a defensive shell, breathe at the end of each of your opponent’s punches.

3. Don’t Stand Up Right Away

If the punch knocks you down and you stand up right away, your legs may wobble or even collapse. Instead of standing as soon as you hit the ground, gradually assume a kneeling position. Along with preventing a potential collapse, you’ll have more time to recover from the punch. If the punch was particularly brutal, keep kneeling until the count of 7 or 8. 

If you’re a beginner who needs a boxing coach, turn to TM Productions. Based in Honolulu, HI, Tessa Moon has over a decade of experience training with champion boxers and defeating contenders from across the world. Whether you train with her or go against her in a match, she’ll help you take your boxing skill to the next level. Learn more about Tessa online, and call (808) 291-7817 to schedule a match or training session.