Basic Jab Cross & Footwork in Muay Thai

Jab cross and footwork are the first thing we teach in our 8 Week Course - How to Muay Thai 101. They are the first fundamental techniques of Muay Thai.

Most of the people know what jab and cross are but do you know how to throw them correctly? And what are the differences in Muay Thai vs Boxing?

The differences of basics in Muay Thai vs Boxing:

Stance
A good stance starts with a solid base. Muay Thai stance is typically very forward and square because it allows you to throw other strikes faster such as kicks and knees. your feet should be shoulder width apart. Your knees are slightly bended. Back foot heel is lifted off the ground. Hips are facing forward.

Footwork
Muay Thai footwork requires you to maintain the balance at all time. As you move forward, backward, left and right, your lead leg should stay at the front and the distance between your lead leg and rear leg should maintain the same.

Guard
Instead of keeping both hands close to the face and body like boxing, Muay Thai guard is held higher. Your lead hand should extend a little further out as this is to protect against other weapons rather than punches.

Here is the video of basic jab cross forward combo that you can practice at home.

Tips:

• Step forward with your lead leg and extend your lead arm at the same time (Jab)

• Step rear leg in and extend rear arm (cross). pivot your back foot and plant your back toes down on the ground

• Punch with your first two knuckles. When you throw a punch, your body, shoulder, arm and wrist should be in one straight line

• Bring the other hand back to protect your face

• Tuck your chin down