In boxing, what is an orthodox stance?
VerifiedAnswer: A stance where the boxer's left foot and left hand are forward, typically used by right-handed boxers.
Explanation:
The orthodox stance is the most common boxing position, used by approximately 70-80% of boxers worldwide. In this stance, a right-handed boxer places their left foot forward and keeps their right foot back, creating a stable foundation for both offensive and defensive movements.
The positioning works perfectly with natural body mechanics. Since most people are right-handed, keeping the stronger hand (right) in the back allows for more powerful punches. The left hand stays forward as the jab hand, which is used for quick strikes, measuring distance, and setting up combinations. The rear right hand becomes the power punch, delivering crosses and hooks with maximum force.
Key characteristics of the orthodox stance include:
• Left foot positioned forward, right foot back • Left shoulder slightly forward • Right hand held near the chin for protection • Left hand extended for jabbing • Weight distributed evenly between both feet • Body turned at a slight angle to present a smaller target
The opposite of orthodox is the southpaw stance, where left-handed boxers typically place their right foot and right hand forward. When orthodox and southpaw fighters face each other, it creates interesting tactical challenges since both fighters must adapt their usual strategies.
Famous orthodox stance fighters include Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, and Mike Tyson. The stance provides excellent balance for movement, allows for effective defensive positioning, and sets up the classic one-two combination (left jab followed by right cross) that forms the foundation of modern boxing technique.
