06/05/2026
BOXING COMBINATION SHORTHAND GUIDE
Hey guys,
I wanted to explain the boxing combination shorthand you'll see on the whiteboard during class. This is a system boxing coaches use so we don't have to write long descriptions for every combination. It saves time, keeps things organized, and helps us fit more information on the board.
Important: This guide is for boxing only. Some of the concepts carry over to kickboxing, but I'm not covering kicks, knees, or other kickboxing techniques here.
Punch Numbers
Punches are numbered 1 through 6.
Odd numbers = Lead handEven numbers = Rear hand
1 = Jab
2 = Cross
3 = Lead Hook
4 = Rear Hook
5 = Lead Uppercut
6 = Rear Uppercut
Example:
1-2-3= Jab → Cross → Lead Hook
Separating Techniques
You'll see punches separated by hyphens, commas, or spaces.
Examples:
1-2-3
1,2,3
1 2 3
The important thing is that there is a clear separation between each movement.
Defensive Abbreviations
Defensive movements are written using abbreviations.
Some coaches use slightly different terminology, but the concepts are generally the same.
S = Slip
R = Roll
Pu = Pull
B = Block
C = Catch
Pa = Parry
When a defensive abbreviation appears before a punch number, it means you're defending that punch.
Examples:
Pa1 = Parry the jab
B2 = Block the cross
Pa1-B2 = Parry the jab, then block the cross
Body Punch Abbreviations
If a punch has no letter after it, assume it is going to the head.
If a punch has a "b" after it, it goes to the body.
Examples:
1b = Jab to the body
2b = Cross to the body
3b = Lead hook to the body
4b = Rear hook to the body
Generally:
Hooks to the body go to the sides/ribs.
Straight punches to the body go to the front of the torso.
Putting It All Together
Example:
B3b-6-3-2b-B2
Translation:
Block the lead hook
Lead hook to the body
Rear uppercut
Lead hook
Cross to the body
Block the cross
Additional Notes
Extended Number Systems
Most of the time we'll only use punches 1-6.
Some coaches may also use:
7
8
9
These often represent overhands, rising punches, or other specialty punches depending on the gym.
Footwork
Not everything will be abbreviated.
If I want a specific movement, I'll usually just write it out.
Examples:
Pivot
Step Forward
Step Back
Circle Left
Circle Right
Left-Handed Fighters (Southpaws)
Southpaws will perform the punches from the opposite stance, and that's completely fine.
If you're hitting mitts:
Throw the combination exactly as written.
The pad holder should adjust for the puncher's stance.
For example, if a southpaw is hitting and an orthodox fighter is holding pads, the holder simply presents the opposite pad when necessary.
Final Note
I realize this is a lot of information at once, and I don't expect anyone to memorize it all immediately.
This is simply a reference guide so you can better understand what you're seeing on the whiteboard. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.
