Flinch

[kckbxblnd]

Bang, a jab or cross gets thrown directly at my face... Instead of ducking, weaving, etc. I flinch and get a deer in the headlights look. I realize since I recently started taking MT seriously, and just started sparring--that this could be normal? Are there any drills to overcome this, or advice! HELP!!!

[gregimotis]

If you are still pretty new to getting punched in the face then yes, it's pretty normal although some people are worse about it than others.


The only remedy is getting punched plenty, but there are some drills to accelerate the process such as:

Put your hands behind your back and have a partner punch at your face. He works jabs, crosses, hooks etc., but he works slowly and without power while you practice slipping, bobbing and weaving like a boxer. As you get better at dodging he picks up the pace. You will and should get hit sometimes but again, the drill is done without power in the punches so you shouldn't be getting jarred. The feeder is pretty compliant in this drill - he is trying to find a speed wherein you get hit every four or fifth punch when he could obviously hit you most every time if he wanted. Keep your chin tucked, use your shoulders for cover and don't get flat-footed also don't let yourself back pedal.

Put your hands on your face in a tight cover - gloves on your eyebrows, elbows on your ribs, eyes looking out (not closed your staring at the floor)- your partner stands close and throws constant short punches at your head, belly and ribs. As in the last drill, he is not powering his punches much, rather he is hitting constantly and with just enough power to stress you out some. You do your best to block with your gloves and elbows, he does his best to find the openings. Keep your chin tucked, keep your gloves on your face, don't back up and don't get flat footed. Also, your partner should be making an effort to maintain good punching form. You should get hit plenty and it should be somewhat stressfull but not physically damaging.


These are obviously boxing drills more than Thai-boxing but they may help with your problem.




"Pain is the best teacher, but nobody wants to take his class."
-somewhere in the 'Quotes' thread.

[pittbulldog]

Stand in front of a heavy bag. Lean your head forward just a little bit. Let the bag swing out, and come back and hit you in the forehead. As the bag is coming towards you, force your eyes open.

[joeuser42]

Get a double end bag for $30. Pop it with a jab or cross and either slip, cover, or move. Repeat.