Monday, January 9, 2012

When Working Off Boxing Ropes


1. Beware of the Ropes
The last place a boxer wants to be during a bout is up against the ropes. Being in that position is like sudden death. Admittedly, sometimes there is no getting around it. Your opponent skillfully backs you into a corner or against the ropes. If you find yourself in that situation, do not panic. There are several defensive strategies designed to free you from your competitor's clutches and those ropes.
2. Rope-A-Dope
"Rope-a-dope", two boxers on the ropes. Muhammad Ali made this boxing strategy famous during his African "Rumble in the Jungle" boxing match with George Foreman in 1974. Implementing this defensive tactic calls for a fighter to lean against the ropes, protecting himself as much as possible with his gloves and body. This gives your opponent the chance to connect with his punches. The objective here is withstanding his attack, tiring him out, all the while reserving your own energy. Successfully using the rope-a-dope results in an exhausted foe letting his guard down. That is your chance to make the most of his predicament, turn the tables and start firing counter punches.
3. In the Clinch
Clinching also is a means of working off the ropes in boxing when all other defensive techniques fail. Execute this strategy by grabbing your opponent's shoulders and holding them firmly to your body. Brush your biceps against her body while bringing them toward you using only your body. Glide your arms to her elbow joint with your head above her shoulders. Now rotate or twirl her fast and furiously. Your arms are up when your bodies disconnect. Generally, in a clinch situation the referee separates the fighters and brings them back to equal footing.
4. Hands Up
Blocking your opponent's punch helps when working off the ropes in boxing. This defensive method requires a fighter use their upper body, especially their hands, arms and shoulders, to ward off their competitor's punches. This is particularly effective when you find yourself up against the ropes or in a corner. Your "palm" or "cuff" takes a punch on that section of your glove. Another variation involves keeping both hands in tight to your face or body. Protect yourself from the neck up by tucking your arms inside your upper body. This staves off uppercuts. Also, block body shots by turning your hips. This causes your competitor's fists to "roll" off your body.
5. Simulate the Situation
Regardless of which technique you employ when working off the ropes in boxing, practice is paramount to its effectiveness. Determine the best method for you by working each one with another boxer. Use the middle of the ring, the ropes and the corners to experience all angles. Practice with different partners to experience a variety of body shapes and sizes.

 
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