In boxing, what is a punch thrown with the rear hand called?
VerifiedAnswer: Cross
Explanation:
A cross is one of the fundamental punches in boxing that's thrown with your rear hand - the hand that's positioned further back in your boxing stance. If you're in an orthodox stance (left foot forward), your rear hand would be your right hand, making it a right cross. For southpaw boxers (right foot forward), it becomes a left cross with their left hand.
The cross gets its name because the punch travels in a straight line across the body, crossing from the rear position to the target. It's designed to be a power punch that generates force from your entire body - starting from your back foot, rotating through your hips and shoulders, and delivering maximum impact through your rear hand.
Here's why the cross is so important in boxing:
• Power Generation: Since it uses your rear hand and involves full body rotation, the cross typically delivers more force than a jab • Range and Reach: The straight-line trajectory allows you to hit targets at your maximum reach • Knockout Potential: Many knockouts in boxing come from well-timed crosses due to their power • Versatility: Can be thrown as a counter-punch, follow-up to a jab, or as part of combination punches
The technique involves keeping your elbow down, rotating your hips and shoulders, and following through while maintaining balance. Your front hand should stay up for protection while throwing the cross. It's often used in the classic "one-two" combination, where a jab (front hand) is immediately followed by a cross (rear hand).
